Public universities already cost less than private schools. But for veterans, many state schools are completely free – and some even pay you to attend.
How Public School Tuition Works For Veterans
The Post-9/11 GI Bill covers 100% of in-state tuition at public universities. No gap to cover, no Yellow Ribbon needed. Just free tuition.
But wait – what if you’re not a resident of that state?
Here’s where it gets good: Federal law requires public schools to charge veterans in-state rates regardless of where they live. The Veterans Access, Choice and Accountability Act of 2014 made this mandatory.
States With The Biggest Veteran Tuition Waivers
Some states go beyond federal requirements and waive tuition entirely for qualifying veterans:
Texas
The Hazlewood Act provides up to 150 credit hours of free tuition at any Texas public college or university. This applies to Texas veterans and can even be transferred to dependents. Combined with GI Bill housing allowance, you get paid to attend.
Illinois
The Illinois Veterans Grant waives tuition and fees at all Illinois public universities for veterans with at least one year of active duty. No limit on credit hours.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin GI Bill provides full tuition remission at UW System schools for qualifying veterans. Covers 128 credits or 8 semesters.
Connecticut
Veterans receive 100% tuition waiver at all Connecticut State Colleges and Universities. Applies to undergraduate and graduate programs.
Massachusetts
The Massachusetts National Guard and veterans receive tuition waivers at state colleges and universities through various programs including the WAVE waiver.
Best Value Public Universities For Veterans
These schools consistently rank as top values for veteran students:
- University of Texas at Austin – Hazlewood Act + GI Bill = free degree + housing stipend
- Texas A&M University – Strong veteran community, Hazlewood eligible
- University of Illinois – Illinois Veterans Grant covers everything
- Penn State – Yellow Ribbon covers out-of-state gap
- University of Michigan – Generous Yellow Ribbon for grad programs
- University of Virginia – Strong veteran services, Yellow Ribbon available
- Georgia Tech – Low base cost + HOPE scholarship stackable
The Housing Allowance Bonus
Here’s what many veterans miss: At public schools, your tuition is covered AND you get the full Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA). At expensive schools in major cities, that’s $3,000-$4,000 per month tax-free.
Attend UT Austin or Georgia Tech and you’re getting:
- Free tuition
- Free fees
- $2,500+ monthly housing allowance
- $1,000/year book stipend
That’s not a discount. That’s getting paid to earn a degree.
Out-Of-State Students: How To Get Residency
Even though you’ll get in-state rates from day one, establishing residency can unlock additional state benefits:
- Move to the state before classes start
- Get a state driver’s license
- Register to vote in the state
- Open a local bank account
- Document 12 months of residency for maximum state benefits
Compare Before You Commit
Public universities offer incredible value for veterans, but don’t assume they’re always the best choice. Some private schools with strong Yellow Ribbon programs end up costing the same – zero dollars – while offering smaller class sizes or specialized programs.
Run the numbers for each school you’re considering. The best deal depends on your situation.
