The Military Promise
Guaranteed Admission
For those who are committed to serve, are serving, or have honorably served
At Grand Valley State University, we honor the service and sacrifice of America’s military community. The GVSU Military Promise guarantees admission to the university for those who have committed to serve, are serving, or who have honorably served in the U.S. Armed Forces. If you are currently serving on Active-Duty or in the Reserves or National Guard, GVSU will also provide up to $500 per semester toward tuition not covered through military tuition assistance, Pell funding, or other federal funds.
Wherever you are in your military career, your place at GVSU is secure. The GVSU Military Promise is open to service members and veterans from across the United States. Whether you want to start courses online or on campus while serving, or transition after your service, we are committed to making higher education accessible, affordable, and supportive of your unique journey.
There is no obligation or cost to participate. Your next steps are outlined below. Visit our frequently asked questions page for more details.
Complete Your Online Application→
To be eligible for guaranteed admission to GVSU, you must meet one of the following:
- Have enlisted and completed your initial occupation training.
- Be actively serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves, or National Guard.
- Hold an Honorable Discharge or General Discharge Under Honorable Conditions if applying after completing your enlistment.
Guaranteed admission to GVSU is dependent on establishing that you meet the eligibility requirements listed previously.
Other university policies related to the admissions process (i.e. applying, submitting official transcripts, disclosing criminal history, etc.) will also be followed.
Military Promise Scholarship Eligibility
To be eligible for this $500 scholarship, you must:
- Be a new student admitted to GVSU in the Fall 2026 semester or beyond.
- Be currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves, or National Guard. Each semester you want the scholarship applied, you must submit documentation confirming current service status. Acceptable documentation includes:
- Current active-duty orders, if applicable
- A current Statement of Service letter from the student’s unit or command
- Another official document approved by the university that confirms current service status.
- Documentation is reviewed each semester and must be approved before the scholarship is applied.
- Have a completed FAFSA on file before the first day of each semester.
- Be enrolled at least part time (six or more credits per semester).
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
This scholarship may be awarded at $500 per semester, up to a maximum of $1,000 per academic year (fall and winter).
This scholarship is a last dollar award applied after military tuition assistance and other tuition-restricted funding. It covers up to $500 of remaining tuition charges for the term and can only be used for tuition.
Next Step: Register Now
- Register for the Veteran Promise program — this will allow us to send you updates and reminders about the program, plus let us know that you’re interested in attending
- Once you’re ready to apply for admission, you must
- complete an online application;
- have your high school send us your official high school transcript; and
- send us your official transcripts for any college coursework previously completed or in progress.
You do not need to complete a Grand Valley application until prior to the semester you wish to begin.
GVSU is a Military and Veteran-Friendly Choice
Gold status on the Michigan Veteran Affairs Agency's list of Michigan's Veteran-Friendly Schools for 11 consecutive years, as well as their 2024 MVAA Innovator Award for "demonstrated exceptional dedication to empowering those who have served our country."
Silver status for the 2025-2026 school year from MilitaryFriendly.com.
Military and Veteran Resource Center
A welcoming, supportive place...
GVSU is a welcoming, supportive place for veterans and military‑connected students, centered around the Peter Secchia Military and Veterans Resource Center. Students get help navigating GI Bill® benefits, access to dedicated lounge spaces, and regular community events that build connection and support. Through Laker Vets and on‑campus VA VITAL staff, veterans find a strong network and resources that make the transition to college smoother and set them up for success.
Grand Valley's Veteran's Lounge on the Valley Campus in Allendale.