Application cycle open for MVAA’s newly expanded Veteran-Friendly Schools program

LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) is accepting applications for its Veteran-Friendly Schools (VFS) initiative for the 2026-2027 academic year. The application cycle will be open through Monday, Aug. 31, 2026.

The VFS program recognizes academic institutions committed to supporting the needs of veterans and military-connected students. These institutions are awarded Gold, Silver and Bronze-level status based on their veteran-centric services and programs. Any academic institution or training facility in Michigan eligible to receive veteran education benefits can apply for the program.

New this year, registered apprenticeship programs with established on site GI Bill^®-certifying officials are now eligible to apply. This addition reflects a growing emphasis on career-connected education pathways and recognizes the critical role apprenticeships play in helping veterans transition into high-demand fields.

"Participating in the VFS program reflects a meaningful commitment to those who have served," said Joe Saur, MVAA education analyst. "By expanding eligibility to include registered apprenticeship programs, we're recognizing that veterans succeed in many different learning environments - from classrooms to career pathways."

Universities, colleges or trade schools interested in becoming a VFS must meet the criteria below:

1. Established process for identification of current student veterans
2. Maintain veteran-specific website
3. Active veteran organization, club or peer connection
4. Veteran-specific career services, resources, advising and/or outcome monitoring
5. On-campus veterans' coordinator and/or designated staff point of contact
6. Supporting use of GI Bill benefits, including certified staff
7. Monitoring and evaluation of student veteran academic retention, progress, and graduation rates

VFS levels:

• Gold level: Complete six or more of the above
• Silver level: Complete four of the above
• Bronze Level: Complete three of the above

Any academic institution or training facility in Michigan eligible to receive veteran education benefits can apply for the program. Any academic institution interested in becoming certified as a one of Michigan's Veteran-Friendly School should contact Joe Saur at [email protected]. Learn more about the program on the MVAA's VFS dashboard.

Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency - The MVAA is the central coordinating agency, providing support, care advocacy and service to veterans and their families. As a state agency, MVAA works to identify and break down barriers veterans face in employment, education, health care and quality of life, to make Michigan a great place for veterans and their families to call home. More information about MVAA is available at Michigan.gov/MVAA or by reading our FY25 Annual Report.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.