Why Veterans Choose GVSU
Grand Valley does all the things that most of the other universities do for vets — waive application fees, provide in-state tuition regardless of where you live, offer priority registration, and more. But here’s what you won’t find at most other universities:
- Two dedicated spaces for veterans to study, relax, or socialize
- Veteran-inclusive campus
- LEADS for Vets accelerated bachelor’s program for second-career veterans
- Nationally recognized Student Veterans of America chapter
- MINGSTAP tuition deferment plan
- Deployment support
- Faculty and staff military culture training
- GVSU Veterans Promise (guaranteed enrollment for high school grads who serve)
- Veterans Advance (veteran specific work-based learning opportunities)
A "Veteran Friendly" College
According to Veteran.com
BEST FOR VETS
Gold Star Status eight years in a row
Military and Veteran Pathways
We have several graduation paths for military-connected students.
Getting Started
We are here to help you transition from service to student and complete your degree. In this resource guide we break down the steps to becoming a student and getting connected to important educational benefits earned through military service.
Connecting to Benefits
VA Benefits
Learn how to apply for education benefits, manage your benefits, and other resources by visiting the VA Education Benefits page.
Applying for your educational benefits can be done by visiting the VA Benefits page. Once your form has been submitted, contact your VA Regional Office or a Grand Valley certifying official at (616) 331-3327; [email protected]
National Guard
Michigan National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program (MINGSTAP) and Federal Tuition Assistance for ARNG
Learn About MINGSTAP Learn About FTA
Apply for FTA through ArmyIgnitED
Upon receiving confirmation of acceptance, work with our certifying officials to coordinate your benefit and tuition deferment by emailing [email protected].
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Scholarships and Financial Aid are available. To learn more and to view the FAQ's, visit the Veteran Scholarship Help page.
Credit Transfer and Testing
GVSU provides college-level equivalent credit examination opportunities for veterans and active members of the military, National Guard, or military reserves within the first semester of enrollment. We grant college credit for, or create a structure that evaluates granting college credit for, the service background and experience of veterans and members of the military, National Guard, or military reserves. To learn more, visit our Credit By Exam page.
First, you’ll need to obtain your military records. If you do not have your military records, obtain a Standard Form 180 and submit to receive military records.
Ready To Apply?
This is the place for you...
At Grand Valley State University, we welcome the deep understanding of teamwork, leadership, and the value of a strong work ethic military members bring to the classroom.
Because we value your wide spectrum of experiences, we’re committed to and proud of being a veteran-inclusive university, where we help service members and their families successfully transition from military service to graduation and beyond.