Appalachian State University has been recognized by Military Times as one of the top five colleges in the United States for service members and veterans in its 2025 “Best for Vets: Colleges” rankings. The university was ranked fifth overall among 357 schools nationwide, marking the largest group included since the rankings began 15 years ago. In addition to this national recognition, Appalachian State earned second place among public institutions, was ranked second in the Southeast region, and took the top spot among North Carolina schools.
Military Times’ annual list highlights colleges and universities that offer strong support systems for military-affiliated students. The ranking process evaluates student success metrics, specialized programs, training opportunities, and infrastructure designed to assist those with military backgrounds. According to Military Times, these rankings are intended to “help transitioning service members find schools that not only welcome veterans but actively invest in their success.”
Chancellor Heather Norris commented on the university’s commitment: “We are proud to support our military-affiliated students, faculty and staff, along with their families, and we are dedicated to the success of our military-affiliated students in the classroom and after graduation. These recognitions reflect our universitywide commitment to supporting our student, faculty and staff veterans, who enrich our campus community through their personal experiences and perspectives.”
The Military Times profile noted Appalachian State’s tailored resources for military-affiliated students. These include career services specific to veterans and service members, priority registration for classes, access to the Major General Edward M. Reeder Jr. Student Veteran Resource Center, designated admissions counselors familiar with veteran needs, as well as financial aid options such as scholarships. The university also uses a system within the University of North Carolina System that allows academic credit for military experience.
In fall 2025 enrollment figures at Appalachian State include 1,449 military-affiliated students: 275 veterans, 129 active-duty service members, 75 spouses of service members or veterans, and 970 dependents.
Bethany Gonzalez, associate director of App State Student Veteran Services said: “App State’s recognition as a Best for Vets school highlights our commitment to supporting our incredible military Mountaineers. We take pride in fostering an environment where our military-affiliated students can thrive, connect and continue to make a positive impact.” She also noted that Appalachian State moved up 34 spots from its previous year’s ranking due to efforts aimed at improving resources and outreach.
Gonzalez added: “We have placed a strong emphasis on mental and physical well-being by expanding wellness programs, connecting students with tailored support services and creating more opportunities for community and belonging.”
The data used by Military Times came from institutional surveys about veteran-focused programs as well as public information from both the U.S. Department of Education and Department of Veterans Affairs.
Student Veteran Services at Appalachian State provides various forms of assistance such as scholarship opportunities; connection through groups like App State Student Veterans Association; priority class registration; use of dedicated resource centers; and other targeted resources (https://militarystudents.appstate.edu).
Appalachian State University is part of the University of North Carolina System with over 21,000 enrolled students across undergraduate and graduate programs offered at Boone or Hickory campuses or online (https://www.appstate.edu).
