Military Connected Students
At Thomas Jefferson University, we take great pride in honoring and supporting military connected students, valuing the diverse experiences you contribute to our community. Whether you're a veteran, an active-duty service member, a military spouse, or a dependent, we empathize with the distinct challenges of balancing your educational goals with work and personal commitments. Our dedication remains steadfast in providing resources and support to help meet these needs. From admissions and beyond graduation, we are poised to ensure your academic journey is supported with unwavering assistance.
President Susan Aldridge's message to veterans and active duty service members
Academic Programs available to students
Student to faculty ratio
Online degrees and certificates
Success rate of undergraduate students securing jobs or graduate schools
Continuing to Serve
Learn how Jefferson is working to ensure our service connected students remain engaged with their academic programs.
Admissions
Our support for military connected students during the admission process includes understanding the distinctive variables and opportunities involved. Our admissions team is committed to facilitating a seamless transition by offering the following services:
- Special Application Factors: We recognize the demands of military service. Therefore, we offer flexible application deadlines and expedited review processes for military connected students.
- Transfer Credits: Your service and training matter. We evaluate professional military education, non-academic experience, and training according to the guidelines provided by the American Council on Education (ACE), enabling you to progress in your education based on the skills and knowledge you've gained during your service.
- Prior Learning Assessment: In addition to military training, we also recognize other forms of prior learning, including CLEP exams and certifications programs, ensuring you receive recognition and credit for all relevant educational experiences.
Zero Application Fee & Deposit Fee
For Undergraduate and Master’s-level Programs
No Entrance Exams
Explore an Education that Builds on Your Strengths
Jefferson offers an extensive selection of over 200+ degrees and certificate programs, in 10 Areas of Interest, which provide a diverse range of options to tailor an academic journey. These areas drive students beyond the traditional limits of academics to inspire change and test just how far we can take what we know. They include:
- Architecture - Business - Design
- Engineering - Fashion & Textiles - Health
- Medicine - Nursing - Science - Social Science
In addition to our academic programs we are a R2 national research university with opportunities for students to engage in research around applied, basic and clinical research in a variety of areas including those topics affecting veterans.
Using VA Education Benefits
Thomas Jefferson University is committed to helping military connected students receive VA education benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). If you are a veteran, active duty service member, reservist, national guard, or a military connected spouse or dependent, you may be eligible for education benefits offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, including:
- Yellow Ribbon Program (YRP) - Jefferson has increased its contributions, starting in the 2024-25 school year, from $3,214 to $10,000 for undergraduates and from $2,000 to $5,000 for graduate students. The University will no longer limit the number of Yellow Ribbon recipients, but rather provide this benefit to all program-eligible students.
- Chapter 30: Montgomery GI Bill®
- Chapter 31: Veteran Readiness & Employment
- Chapter 33: Post-9/11 GI Bill®
- Chapter 35: Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) Program
- Chapter 1606: Selective Reserve Montgomery – GI Bill®
If you have questions or need guidance with completing and submitting the required paperwork, visit the Veterans Services page or/and contact the VA Certifying Official, Meghan Reilly at VABenefits@jefferson.edu or call (215) 503-8734.
Grants & Scholarships
Our Financial Aid Office will support you in identifying grants and scholarships available for military connected students at Thomas Jefferson University; as well as military and veteran organizations. Some possible options include:
- Air Force Reserve Training Corps (AFROTC)
- Chief Petty Officer Scholarship Fund
- Jefferson Dean’s and Merit Scholarships
- Folds of Honor
- Independence Blue Cross (IBX) Foundation’s Service Scholars Program (video)
- Jefferson Health Professions Grant
- Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation for Military Dependents
- Military Health Professions Scholarship Program
- Navy Nursing Scholarship Program
- PA National Guard Educational Assistance Program (EAP)
- Pat Tillman Foundation (PTF)
- Robert & June Eyerly Scholarship
- The American Legion Legacy Scholarship
- The Tailhook Educational Foundation
- Wings Over America Scholarship for Navy Dependents from the aviation community
Academic Support Services
Our comprehensive support services will help you thrive. Contact your Academic Advisor for more details.
- Academic and career advising
- Counseling and wellness services
- Financial aid and VA benefits
- Tutoring and Writing Services
- Library Services, Technology and IT Support
You can also view the webinar we hosted Nurses in War: Learnings from Vietnam to Afghanistan and Back, which highlights the experiences of reintegration following the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars.
Organizations, Associations & Partners
We invite you to join our Student Veterans Organization (SVO) to connect with fellow military connected students, faculty and staff, and participate in social and networking events, attend workshops, and access resources designed to support your academic and career success. For more information please email olivia.trotman@jefferson.edu
Other organizations to connect military students: Leashes of Valor and Veteran’s Multiservice Center
A Message from Thomas Jefferson’s CEO Dr. Joe Cacchione
Dr. King once said, "Make a career of humanity. Commit yourself to the noble struggle for equal rights. You will make a better person of yourself, a greater nation of your country, and a finer world to live in."
This is what I hope for our students, and what I know our alumni work toward each and every day. It’s that humanity that will help us fulfill Jefferson’s mission to improve lives.
News Nursing Student Serves Country and Patients
Nursing student Ana Brunal fell in love with caring for people as an EMT years ago. She worked with nurses during transports and admired their autonomy, ability to practice in multiple settings and deep connections with patients under their watch.
"The online MBA program allowed me to leverage the knowledge and skills I gained at the US Military Academy at West Point and my leadership experience as an officer in the US Army."
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for my VA Education Benefits?
To initiate the process, begin by visiting the VA's official website. For personalized guidance and support with completing and submitting the required paperwork, reach out to VA Certifying Official at VABenefits@jefferson.edu or call 215-503-8734.
Can I transfer credits from military training?
Yes, military training can often be credited towards your degree. We use the American Council on Education (ACE) guidelines to determine how many credits your training and/or occupations can be worth. Please provide your Joint Services Transcript (JST) or Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) transcript for evaluation.
What support services are available for military connected students?
We offer a range of support services including counseling, academic tutoring, and career services to ensure you have the support you need.
Are there special accommodations for deployment or military duties?
Yes, we provide flexible scheduling and extensions for assignments and exams for students who have duties or deployment. Communicate with your professors and your academic advisor to arrange these accommodations.
How can I connect with other military connected students?
Joining our Student Veterans Organization (SVO) is a great way to meet other students with similar backgrounds. We also host regular events and meetups that provide networking opportunities and a sense of community. For more information please e-mail olivia.trotman@jefferson.edu.
What career resources are available to help me transition from military to civilian employment?
Our career services offer resume reviews, career counseling, and workshops to help you translate your military experience into civilian job opportunities. We also connect students with job fairs and networking events with military friendly employers.
What about the application fee?
The application fee for active-duty military will be waived.