Military Students

Welcome to ACU, where we proudly support our nation’s active-duty military service members in their educational pursuits. As a private university, we provide a flexible and accessible online learning environment designed to meet the unique needs of those serving in the military.
Home/ Admissions/ Military Students

Welcome to ACU, where we proudly support our nation’s active-duty military service members in their educational pursuits. As a private university, we provide a flexible and accessible online learning environment designed to meet the unique needs of those serving in the military.

Main Content

We understand the sacrifices and commitments our military members make every day. That’s why we offer a range of academic programs that align with military careers and provide valuable skills and knowledge for advancement. Whether you’re interested in fields like business, technology, healthcare, or education, our accredited online programs are tailored to help you excel in your chosen path.

Invest in your future while serving your country. Join the ranks of active-duty military students who have chosen ACU for their online education. 

Military friendly school


Why choose ACU for your online education?

Flexibility

We understand that military service comes with demanding schedules and frequent relocations. Our online learning platform allows you to study anytime, anywhere, and at your own pace, providing the flexibility needed to balance your military duties and educational aspirations.

Military-Friendly Support

Our university is committed to providing exceptional support to our military students. From personalized academic advising to a dedicated military support team, we are here to assist you throughout your educational journey. We understand the unique challenges you may face, and we are ready to help you overcome them.

Relevant Programs

Our academic programs are designed to align with military careers and equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary for success. Whether you’re seeking professional advancement or transitioning to a civilian career, our programs are tailored to meet the demands of the ever-evolving job market.

Online Degree Programs

Faith-Focused Environment

As a private Christian university, ACU recognizes the significance of personal spiritual growth and offers resources and opportunities for you to explore and strengthen your faith while pursuing your education. Our faith-inspired approach permeates our courses, discussions, and support services, providing a nurturing environment that encourages holistic development. We believe that incorporating faith into your educational journey can enhance your worldview, deepen your values, and empower you to make a positive impact in your military service and beyond.

Vocational Formation

Accreditation

ACU is an accredited institution, ensuring you receive a quality education recognized by employers and other educational institutions. Our rigorous academic standards and faculty expertise contribute to the value and credibility of your degree. Additionally, many of our programs have earned secondary accreditation from industry-specific associations.

Learn More

Community

Join a vibrant community of fellow military students who understand the challenges and triumphs of military life. Connect with your peers, engage in discussions, and build a network that extends beyond the virtual classroom.

Learn More

Special Military Tuition Rates for Online Degrees

One of the ways we support our military students is through our Tuition Assistance program for ACU’s online degrees. We recognize the financial challenges that service members may face while pursuing higher education, which is why we offer tuition assistance options to help ease the burden.

ACTIVE DUTY UNDERGRADUATE
$250 per semester hour

For online undergraduate certificates and bachelor’s degrees, the tuition rate is $250 per semester hour*. This tuition cost is in line with the Tuition Assistance cap for Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard.
*Does not include $300 resource fee per session ($600 per semester).

 

ACTIVE DUTY GRADUATE
$495 per semester hour

For online graduate certificates, master’s, and doctoral degrees, the tuition rate is $495 per semester hour*.
*Does not include $200 resource fee per session ($400 per semester).

yellow ribbon schoolVETERANS
10% Tuition Discount

As a veteran, reservist or Department of Defense employee, you are eligible to receive a 10% discount on tuition for online programs. And you can request to have your military training evaluated to help further reduce the cost and time to complete your degree. Find out more about our military benefits and what you qualify for by speaking with an advisor today at 855-219-7300.

MILITARY SPOUSES
10% Tuition Discount

We recognize the sacrifice military members and their families make. As a thank-you, we now offer a 10% discount off our regular tuition rates for new online students whose spouse served honorably in the military. Please contact us at 855-219-7300 for more information.

On-Campus Tuition Rates

$1,730 per semester hour for undergraduate programs.

Graduate program tuition varies by program. View details here.

Local to Abilene? Explore our on-campus degree programs.

On-Campus Undergraduate On-Campus Graduate

On-Campus Military Benefits

ACU is approved to process GI Bill® benefits for eligible students. Visit our Office of Veteran Affairs FAQ for more information.

Additionally, an active duty service member can transfer their GI Bill® benefits to a spouse or child. Learn the rules to transfer GI Bill® benefits.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about educational benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

FUTURE MILITARY CHAPLAINS
50% Scholarship

Knowing that Military Chaplains are required to earn a M.Div. degree, ACU’s Graduate School of Theology offers a specific scholarship just for future military chaplains. Students will receive a base scholarship of 50% off tuition with the potential for it to increase over the course of their degree. The application process is based on undergraduate GPA, recommendation letters, writing samples and other criteria. Please contact us at 855-219-7300 for more information.

Dedicated Support


ACU is committed to providing exceptional support to our military students. That’s why we have a team of dedicated academic advisors with firsthand experience serving in the Armed Forces. Our military-experienced advisors understand the unique challenges and demands of military life and are passionate about helping you navigate your educational journey while balancing your military responsibilities. They are well-versed in the benefits and resources available to military students and can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs. With their deep understanding of both military service and academic requirements, our advisors are here to ensure that you receive the support and assistance you deserve as you pursue your educational and career goals.

Nick Pate

Nick Pate
Senior Director of Enrollment
Marines- Non-Commissioned Officer with the rank of Corporal
nick.pate@acu.edu

Josh Porco

Josh Porco
Senior Military Admission Advisor
Army- Sergeant First Class/E-7
josh.porco@acu.edu

Michael Calub

Michael Calub
Military Admission Advisor
Army- Sergeant First Class/E-7
michael.calub@acu.edu

Rick Eagly

Rick Eagly
Military Admission Advisor
Army – First Sergeant/E-8
rick.eagly@acu.edu

Career Services & Disability

All ACU Online students are assigned a Financial Intake Specialist to serve as their point of contact for financial advising. Your Financial Intake Specialist will guide you through the process and address your specific needs. Service members will also have a Student Services Advisor for academic advising and to assist with completion of studies. If academic accommodations are needed based on ADA, please contact Abbey Green, Wellness Manager. Career Services are also available to students and graduates through LaShae Grottis, Student Engagement Manager.

Resources for Military Students

military students financial aid

College Scorecard

A planning tool and resource to assist prospective military students and families as they evaluate options in selecting a school. 

College Scorecard
military students financial aid

College Navigator 

A consumer tool that provides school information includes tuition and fees, retention and graduation rates, use of financial aid, student loan default rates and features a cost calculator and school comparison tool. 

College Navigator
Woman in uniform

Financial Aid Shopping Sheet 

A model aid award letter designed to simplify students’ information about costs and financial aid so they can easily compare institutions and make informed decisions about where to attend school. 

Undergraduate Shopping Sheet Graduate Shopping Sheet
military students financial aid

“Paying for College” Website

A Planning tool for prospective students to enter the names of up to three schools and receive detailed financial information on each one and to enter actual financial aid award information. 

Paying for College
tree campus usa

ACU offers degree programs in various fields, such as business, counseling, justice studies, education, healthcare, nursing, technology and more. We understand you need convenience and balance, and we offer a variety of online programs to support your path toward higher education.

ACU students on campus

Military members and veterans may have earned college credits through military training and experiences. ACU offers a free evaluation of your military training and experience for college credit. All credit granted for military training is given based on the American Council on Education (ACE) guide recommendations. This is in addition to evaluating any other college credits earned.

Onstead Building for Body Soul Hero

Named one of America’s Top Online Colleges for the fourth year in a row by Newsweek and Statista Inc., ACU continues to set the standard for online education. With a commitment to delivering academic excellence in a flexible online format, ACU Online empowers you to achieve your goals without compromising your lifestyle. Experience a world-class education designed to help you succeed—anytime, anywhere.

 

Meet Edmund Garcia, U.S. Army Veteran and ACU Graduate