Institutions earning the Military Friendly® School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2025-2026 survey with 830 earning special awards for going above the standard.
The 2025-2026 Military Friendly® Schools list will be published in the May and October issues of G.I. Jobs magazine and found at www.militaryfriendly.com.
Methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Viqtory with input from the Military Friendly® Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment communities. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution’s survey scores with the assessment of the institution’s ability to meet thresholds for Student Retention, Graduation, Job Placement, Loan Repayment, Persistence (Degree Advancement or Transfer) and Loan Default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.
“At MedCerts, we’ve cultivated a culture rooted in respect, support and dedication to our Military Service Members, Veterans and their Spouses. We recognize the tremendous sacrifices made in service to our country and deeply value the contributions of each individual in the military community.
Our Military Enrollment Department—serving both COOL and MyCAA channels—is made up of proud Military Veterans from all branches. These team members bring not only firsthand military experience but also an unwavering commitment to educational empowerment.
We understand how essential trust is in the student journey. That’s why we focus on building authentic connections and offering tailored support every step of the way. Our purpose is simple but powerful: to positively impact the lives of Military Members and their families through education.
Together, we’re not just offering programs—we’re helping shape futures & change lives.” – Nikki Paquette, Director of Military Enrollments, MedCerts.
“Military Friendly® is committed to transparency and providing consistent data-driven standards in our designation process. Our standards provide a benchmark that promotes positive outcomes and support services that better the educational landscape and provide opportunities for the Military Community. This creates a competitive atmosphere that encourages Institutions to evolve and invest in their programs consistently. Schools that achieve awards designation show true commitment in their efforts, exceeding the standard.” – Kayla Lopez, Vice President, Military Friendly®.
For more information about MedCert’s student military programs, visit MedCerts’ website at https://medcerts.com/military-benefits.
About Military Friendly® Schools
The Military Friendly® Schools list is created each year based on extensive research using public data sources from more than 8,800 schools nationwide, input from student veterans, and responses to the proprietary, data-driven Military Friendly® Schools survey from participating institutions. The survey questions, methodology, criteria and weighting were developed with the assistance of an independent research firm and an advisory council of educators and employers. The survey is administered for free and is open to all postsecondary schools that wish to participate. Criteria for consideration can be found at www.militaryfriendly.com.
About MedCerts
MedCerts provides innovative, online career training programs that prepare adult learners for in-demand roles in healthcare and IT. With interactive eLearning, expert instruction, and strong industry partnerships, MedCerts has helped over 100,000 students gain the skills and certifications needed for career success. Through MedCerts Partner Solutions, the company collaborates with employers, higher education institutions and workforce agencies to bridge the gap between training and career opportunities. MedCerts is a portfolio brand of Stride, Inc., a leader in online education. Learn more about MedCerts at medcerts.com. For more information on MedCerts Partner Solutions, visit partners.medcerts.com.
About Viqtory
Founded in 2001, VIQTORY is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) that connects the military community to civilian employment, educational and entrepreneurial
opportunities through its G.I. Jobs® and Military Friendly® brands. VIQTORY and its brands are not a part of or endorsed by the U.S. Dept of Defense or any federal government entity. Learn more about VIQTORY at www.viqtory.com.
Contact
For MedCerts:
Edward Yang
MedCerts
1-888-317-4687 ext. 702
[email protected]
For Military Friendly® Schools:
Kayla Lopez
Senior Director of Military Partnerships
For press inquiries visit:
www.militaryfriendly.com/support
