Military & Veteran Online Admissions
Education built around your life
Military life comes with changing schedules, new locations and competing priorities. Your education should adapt with you.
We offer flexible online programs that allow you to earn your degree wherever you are. Whether you're beginning college, transferring credits or returning to finish your degree, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Gold level ranking
received from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency for nine consecutive years.
More than 155
Flag Officers, Admirals and Generals, have earned degrees at Central Michigan University.1
Ranked 3rd in Michigan
and 8th in Midwest from Military Times.
1. Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency
2. Military Times , Best for Vets, 6/18/2025
Why are we right for online military students?
- Flexible online courses that fit your schedule
- Multiple start dates throughout the year
- Military tuition benefits and educational savings
- Credit for military training and previous coursework
- Dedicated military student support
- Accredited degree from Central Michigan University
How to apply
Apply in five simple steps.
Step 1. Submit your application
CMU Online classes start several times throughout the year. Choose the term you wish to start your classes and where you want to take them (online or at one of our satellite centers) when you fill out your online application.
Step 2. See if you can waive the application fee
All U.S. military veterans, active duty, National Guard and Reserve service members are eligible to have their application fee waived. You must provide one of the following to CMU with your application:
- DD-214 form verifying service
- Service verification letter from your command indicating your current duty station
- VA Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)
- Active military ID if you are applying in person at a CMU satellite location
Step 3. Send us your transcripts
Ask each of the institutions where you’ve done undergraduate or graduate coursework to send your official transcripts directly to CMU.
Your schools may send your transcripts by email to apply@cmich.edu or mail them to:
Central Michigan University
Attn: Transcript Department
802 Industrial Drive
Mount Pleasant, MI 48858
Step 4. Check your program's requirements
Some programs require additional materials with your application. Be sure to check your academic program to see whether your program has additional admissions requirements.
Step 5. Meet with your advisor
After admission, you'll connect with an advisor to review your credits, register for classes and prepare for your first semester.
Your experience has already set you apart
Your military education, technical training, certifications and professional experience may help you earn credit toward your degree.
We'll review your previous learning and identify opportunities to maximize eligible credit, helping you save time and move closer to graduation.
Military student support
As a CMU Online student, you'll have access to people who understand the unique needs of military-connected students.
Our team can help you:
- Navigate military education benefits
- Understand transfer credit opportunities
- Connect with academic advising
- Prepare for online learning
- Stay on track through graduation
FAQ
Who is eligible for military education benefits?
Active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, veterans, military spouses and eligible dependents may qualify for military education benefits, tuition assistance, VA education benefits, scholarships or other financial resources. Eligibility depends on your military status and the specific benefit or program. Our team can help you understand the options available to you and identify the benefits you may qualify for.
Can my military training count toward my degree?
Yes. Military education and training may qualify for academic credit. We'll review your military records and previous coursework during the admissions process.
Can I transfer credits from another college?
Yes. We'll evaluate previous college coursework to determine what applies toward your degree program.
Do I have to live in Michigan?
No. CMU Online programs are available to students across the country and around the world, subject to state authorization requirements.
Who can help me through the admissions process?
Our enrollment specialists and military student support staff are available to answer questions about admissions, transfer credit, military benefits and getting started.
