Military and Veteran Candidates
Serving Those Who Serve
Virginia Tech is one of only six Senior Military Colleges in the nation. Our MIT program is built to support active-duty service members, veterans, and military families as they advance their careers.
True to our motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech has a deep and lasting commitment to the military community. Recognized as a Military Friendly School (Gold) by VIQTORY (2026) and named "Best for Vets" by Military Times (2024), we invest in the programs, services, and support that help military-affiliated students succeed.
We are proud to count many active-duty service members, veterans, and military family members among our MIT students, alumni, and faculty. Our MIT program offers the flexibility military-affiliated professionals need to continue serving or transition into civilian careers.
Wondering whether you qualify? Your military service counts toward our three-year work-experience requirement—including time served before you earned your degree. Contact an advisor to discuss the VT-MIT program.
Benefits for Military Candidates
Support designed to help you make the most of your service and your MIT degree.
How to Apply for the Fee Waiver
Military applicants can request a waiver for the $75 application fee during the online application process.
- 1 Start the online application
- 2 In the Financial Assistance section, check the "Application Fee Waiver Request" box to add the Fee Waiver Request section to your application
- 3 In the Fee Waiver Request section, select "U.S. Military Service (Active Duty or Veteran Status)" in the qualifying activity dropdown, provide your service dates, and upload required documentation
Steps to Use Your VA Benefits at Virginia Tech
Plan ahead — the COE process typically takes 30–45 days.
- 1 Apply for VA benefits through the VA website
- 2 Receive your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA and send a copy to Virginia Tech's Office of Veteran Services
- 3 Apply and enroll in your MIT program
- 4 Contact the Office of Veteran Services to receive intake information and begin the benefits certification process
- 5 Complete the Veterans Enrollment Certification form on Hokie SPA each semester you wish to use your benefits
- 6 Register only for required courses — the VA will not pay for courses that are not required for your degree program
Office of Veteran Services
Virginia Tech's Office of Veteran Services is your central resource for navigating educational benefits. Their team works with the Bursar's Office, Registrar's Office, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to process all documentation related to your benefits.
Office of Veteran Services
220 Gilbert Place, Blacksburg, VA 24061
Phone: 540-231-5815
Email: veteran@vt.edu
Web: veterans.vt.edu
Services include: benefits certification and enrollment verification with the VA, intake guidance for new students, connection to financial, academic, and social resources, the VetZone lounge and study center in the Johnston Student Center (Room 300), and orientation sessions for veterans and dependents.
Eligible Education Benefits
Virginia Tech supports a wide range of military education benefits. Here are the most common benefits our MIT students use. Contact OVS to speak about your benefits.
Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
If you served on active duty after September 10, 2001, you may qualify for benefits covering tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance, and a books and supplies stipend. Virginia residents (or those who qualify for in-state tuition) typically have tuition and fees fully covered.
Learn more at VA.gov →Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Chapter 31)
Veterans with service-connected disabilities may be eligible for VR&E benefits, which can cover tuition, fees, books, supplies, and other program-related costs.
Survivors' & Dependents' Assistance (Chapter 35 / Fry Scholarship)
Eligible spouses, surviving spouses, and children of service members may qualify for education benefits through Chapter 35 DEA or the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship.
Transfer of Entitlement
If a service member has transferred their Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to a spouse or dependent, those benefits can be applied toward an MIT at Virginia Tech.
Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30) & Reserve Educational Assistance (Chapter 1606)
Members of the Selected Reserve and National Guard may qualify for educational assistance under these chapters.
Military Tuition Assistance (TA)
Active-duty service members may be able to use their branch's Tuition Assistance program to help cover tuition costs. Check with your Education Center for branch-specific processes and benefit amounts.
Virginia Military Survivors & Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP)
This state program provides education benefits to spouses and children of service members killed, missing in action, taken prisoner, or permanently disabled as a result of covered military service.
Apply through VA Dept. of Veterans Services →Career Resources for Military Students
Virginia Tech provides career support tailored to military-affiliated students through the Office of Veteran Services and Career and Professional Development.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Have questions about applying as a military-affiliated candidate, navigating your benefits, or choosing the right MIT program? We're here to help.
Key Resources
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
VA Post-9/11 GI Bill |
va.gov |
GI Bill Comparison Tool |
va.gov |
VT Office of Veteran Services |
veterans.vt.edu |
VT Veterans Benefits Info |
veterans.vt.edu |
SCHEV Military Education |
schev.edu |
VMSDEP |
dvs.virginia.gov |
VT Graduate Application |
applyto.graduateschool.vt.edu |
VT Career Resources for Veterans |
veterans.vt.edu |