This designation is awarded to colleges each year based on extensive research using public data sources for more than 8,800 schools nationwide, input from student veterans and responses to the proprietary, data-driven Military Friendly® Schools survey from participating institutions.
This designation is awarded to colleges each year based on extensive research using public data sources for more than 8,800 schools nationwide, input from student veterans and responses to the proprietary, data-driven Military Friendly Schools survey from participating institutions.
“Excellent service for our military community is a high priority at Northwest Florida State College,” said President Dr. Devin Stephenson. “We are honored to earn this distinction and are committed to making a positive impact on improving the lives of service members in northwest Florida.”
Military Friendly Schools are rated to the extent to which each organization exceeds the following benchmark standards:
- Academic Policies and Compliance
- Admissions and Orientation
- Culture and Commitment
- Financial Aid and Assistance
- Graduation and Career
- Military Student Support and Retention
With close proximity to Eglin Air Force Base, Hurlburt Field and Duke Field, NWF State serves a multitude of veterans, active duty military members and their families. The College has been designated a Purple Heart college and offers a variety of specialized services and programs including a bachelor’s degree in Military Leadership.
In April 2018, the College’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to waive all college fees for active duty military students using tuition assistance. The vote came shortly after the signing of House Bill 75/Military Assistance Bill by then Governor Rick Scott. Northwest Florida State College has the highest number of students (2,537) receiving the post 9/11 GI Bill benefits in the Florida College System, four times the system average of 664 students (2014-2015).
The College also recently reimagined the Veterans Success Center which provides a one-stop shop for veterans and their families. The Center includes a tranquil, professional and respectful location, including state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology, where veterans can study or pursue other scholastic assignments. Additionally, the center creates a cooperative community for veterans and provides resources for leadership, support, advisement and campus engagement. The Center serves to expand employment, educational opportunities and transition services to veterans, active duty and guard service members, reservists and military dependents.
