Factors Influencing Student Veterans’ College Choices

This study examined factors influencing veterans’ postsecondary institutional choices. Individual interviews were conducted with 30 veterans separating from military service and twelve military education officials and counselors. Results indicated most veterans transitioning from the military who aspire to enroll in postsecondary education intend to enroll in community colleges. An analysis of the data generated in the interviews highlights four factors as being influential in veterans’ college choices, including perception of cost and financial resources, academic program offerings, flexible scheduling, and advising received from military education counselors.