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Why Military-Connected Students Choose the UW MBA Consortium

100% Online & Asynchronous – Complete your coursework on your schedule each week, no required live class meetings.

Built for Mobility – Continue your MBA from anywhere in the world, even when your location changes.

Penalty Free Term Pauses – Pause your studies for a term due to deployment, PCS, or changing service demands, no academic penalty and no need to reapply.

Nationally Recognized Program – Consistently ranked among the top online MBA programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. According to the 2026 rankings we are ranked #15 in the country as Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans.

Exceptional Value – A high quality, public university MBA at a cost significantly lower than many other top programs.

Tailored Military Support

Active-Duty Service Members

Mission-First Flexibility.

  • Fully asynchronous courses, no attendance conflicts
  • Flexible term break options for deployments or training
  • Resume without reapplication when ready
  • Predictable academic calendar

Veterans & Transitioning Service Members

Your leadership experience matters.

  • Broad, general‑management MBA that supports multiple civilian career paths
  • Coursework focused on strategy, leadership, finance, and decision‑making
  • Ideal for veterans still exploring post‑service roles
  • Affordable, flexible option while balancing work and family

Military Spouses & Dependents

Your career deserves flexibility too.

  • Fully online program supports frequent relocations
  • Consistent, predictable schedule
  • Eligible for transferred GI Bill® benefits
  • Strong credential respected nationwide

Military Education Funding & Benefits

GI Bill® Benefits

The GI Bill® is the most commonly used education benefit offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs. It provides up to 36 months of financial support to help eligible veterans, active‑duty service members, and military‑connected dependents pay for higher education or approved training programs.

 


Read More About GI Bill Benefits

Depending on your eligibility, Post‑9/11 GI Bill® benefits may cover a portion or all of your tuition and fees, as well as provide allowances for books, supplies, housing, and reimbursement for certain licensure or certification exams, national tests, apprenticeships, or on‑the‑job training programs.

Eligibility: Your specific benefit level is determined by the length of your qualifying active‑duty service and may cover up to 100% of the maximum benefit.

Benefit Expiration: The date your benefits expire depends on when you separated from active duty.

For full details on eligibility, benefit levels, and expiration rules, visit VA.gov

Wisconsin GI Bill Benefits

Wisconsin offers one of the most robust state‑funded education benefits in the country, providing significant financial support for eligible veterans and their families pursuing graduate education.

 


Read More About Wisconsin GI Bill Benefits

  • Full Tuition and Fee Remission – Eligible students may receive full remission of tuition and segregated fees at University of Wisconsin System institutions, significantly reducing the cost of pursuing an MBA.
  • Coverage for Graduate Programs – Benefits apply to both undergraduate and graduate‑level coursework, including MBA programs, for up to 128 credits or eight semesters, whichever is greater.
  • Flexible Use Alongside Federal Benefits – The Wisconsin GI Bill® is a state‑funded benefit that may be used in combination with certain federal education benefits, depending on individual eligibility and planning considerations.
  • Veteran Eligibility Based on Wisconsin Residency – Eligible veterans must currently reside in Wisconsin and meet specified residency and service requirements established by the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA).
  • Support for Eligible Spouses and Dependents – Qualifying spouses and children of veterans may be eligible for benefits if the veteran has a service‑connected disability rating of 30% or greater or died in the line of duty or as a result of a service‑connected disability.
  • No Expiration on Use – There is no time limit to use Wisconsin GI Bill® benefits. Students may apply the benefit at any point until the available credit or semester limit is reached.
  • Straightforward Application Process – Eligibility is confirmed through the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, followed by certification at the student’s institution. Applications are submitted through the MyWisVets portal.

Scholarship Opportunities

In addition to federal education benefits, some external organizations offer scholarships that may be applicable to MBA students from military‑affiliated backgrounds. Eligibility, award amounts, and degree applicability vary by program. Because scholarship availability and eligibility can change from year to year, we encourage students to research opportunities directly and confirm whether awards apply to graduate‑level coursework.

 


Read More About Scholarship Opportunities

Examples of organizations that sometimes provide graduate‑level funding include:

  • Army Women’s Foundation Scholarships for women who have served in the U.S. Army and their descendants, including support for graduate study
  • Folds of Honor Foundation Educational scholarships for spouses and dependents of fallen or disabled service members, including graduate programs
  • Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) Offers education assistance for military families
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) – Local posts and state‑level organizations may offer scholarships with varying eligibility requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I deploy?

If you receive orders, you may pause your MBA for a full term at any time. You’ll keep your progress and resume when circumstances allow no penalties, no complications.

Is there a difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition?

No. The UW MBA Consortium offers one consistent tuition rate for all students, regardless of where you live. Whether you’re based in Wisconsin, stationed elsewhere, or relocating due to military service, your tuition remains the same, providing clear, predictable costs as you plan your education.

Can I use Tuition Assistance (TA) for this program?

Federal Tuition Assistance (TA) policies for graduate programs vary by service branch. Students may be able to use TA for select coursework; we encourage students to check with their Education Office to confirm eligibility. Our team can help you gather the program details needed for TA approval.

Can I complete the MBA while stationed overseas?

Yes. Our program is fully online and can be completed from anywhere in the world, including OCONUS duty stations. Students must have reliable internet access for coursework.

Are there leadership opportunities within the program?

Yes. Military‑affiliated students may apply to the Student Advisory Group (SAG), a leadership opportunity that allows you to represent your peers, collaborate with program leadership, and gain experience that may support OER/NCOER documentation or civilian leadership development.

Is this MBA a good option if I’m transitioning out of the military?

Yes. Our broad, general MBA curriculum is well‑suited for transitioning service members who want to build business, leadership, and decision‑making skills that translate across civilian industries, without requiring an early specialization.