Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University (JSU) has once again been recognized as a Military Friendly® School, earning the coveted 2025–26 designation for its continued commitment to supporting service members, veterans, and their families. The university was selected from a competitive pool of more than 1,800 institutions nationwide and is one of just 830 schools to receive this recognition.
In a significant step toward increasing access and affordability for military-affiliated students, JSU is also expanding its Military Tuition Rate beginning with the 2025–2026 academic year. The rate, previously available only to active-duty service members, will now be extended to include veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. Under the expanded policy, eligible students will pay $250 per credit hour for online undergraduate and graduate courses, along with a reduced general university fee.
“Our military-affiliated students enrich our campus community through their discipline, leadership, and diverse perspectives,” said Dr. Christie Shelton, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. “This designation reinforces our ongoing commitment to ensuring they have the resources and support needed to succeed—from enrollment to graduation and beyond.”
The Military Friendly® Schools list is compiled annually by Viqtory, a service-disabled, veteran-owned business. It evaluates colleges and universities based on their ability to provide positive educational outcomes and support services to military and veteran students.
According to Dr. Marie Valentin, Assistant Vice Provost for Institutional Research & Effectiveness and chair of the university’s Military Friendly Committee, expanding the tuition rate reflects JSU’s broader mission of service.
“Veterans represent a vital part of our student population, and we want to remove as many barriers as possible to help them pursue their educational goals,” said Dr. Valentin. “Expanding the Military Tuition Rate is a strategic investment in access and affordability, and it reflects Jax State’s deep appreciation for those who have served.”
With nearly 50,000 veterans residing in JSU’s 15-county service area, the expanded tuition policy is expected to have a far-reaching impact. The initiative not only bolsters the university’s efforts to support military families but also strengthens its standing as a regional leader in military education services.
The full 2025–26 Military Friendly® Schools list will be published in the May and October issues of G.I. Jobs® magazine and is also available at www.militaryfriendly.com.
For more information on military and veteran services at Jacksonville State University, visit www.jsu.edu/veterans.
The Military Friendly® Schools list is based on data from over 8,800 schools, veteran feedback, and a rigorous survey developed by Viqtory in partnership with educational experts. The designation recognizes institutions that excel in veteran support and success.
Founded in 2001, Viqtory is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business that connects military personnel with civilian opportunities through its G.I. Jobs® and Military Friendly® brands. Viqtory is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Defense.
