Military Members and Veterans

As hands-on learners, many veterans find their interests naturally align with the sustainable ecology-focused environmental studies programming Sterling College offers. As a work-focused college, Sterling helps veterans build the skills and garner the knowledge to complement applied learning as you explore possible future careers and interests. Through Experiential Endeavors, internships, and Sterling’s work program complemented by comprehensive classroom learning, Sterling College provides a pathway for vets to move into the agricultural and other sectors.

Sterling maintains a Veteran Coordinator who is a current serviceman with a firsthand understanding of the subtleties and difficulties of transitioning from active duty to civilian life. Sterling’s Veteran Coordinator also supports current students enrolling in the armed services, as well as college aspirants who have been out of the military for a period of time.

Application Information for Veterans

The application process at Sterling College for veterans is designed to be as painless as possible. Here’s information that should be of use to you as you apply:

You will need to fill out an application through the Common Application.

We will need a copy of your DD-214 or your NGB-22.

You may be eligible to receive academic credit for your military service. In order to determine what credit we can grant, Sterling College will need a copy of any military transcripts.

The links below will direct you how to request your military transcript(s) from your branch of service.

Yellow Ribbon Program

Sterling College is a proud participant of the Yellow Ribbon Program. The Yellow Ribbon Program helps close the gap between your GI Bill benefits and the cost of a Sterling College education. Sterling offers up to $2,500/semester, for 10 student veterans. The Veterans Administration will match dollar-for-dollar after the regular benefits have been depleted typically in the second semester.  This benefit is provided by an agreement with the Veterans Administration and Sterling College.

We Are Here to Help!

Sterling helps veterans gain job skills through education. We work with you to secure financial assistance for books, supplies, and tuition. We match Yellow Ribbon Awards for students who qualify for the GI bill, providing an additional $5000 per year to help offset the cost of your Sterling College education.

All totaled, most veterans are able to attend Sterling without accruing any debt.

The median age of Sterling’s student body is 22-23 years old, which is older than the average undergraduate college. The slightly older student body can feel welcoming to individuals starting college after being in the military.

Sterling welcomes diversity and cultivates an environment where students of all backgrounds can respectfully coexist while working together to uphold the Sterling College mission. In seeking solutions for a world in crisis, we often return to the basics. If you crave to explore sustainable and simple living, Sterling may be the right place for you