Applying to The Citadel as a Veteran Student

Thank you for your interest in The Citadel, a distinguished institution that honors the commitment and sacrifice of our veteran students. We understand the unique challenges you may encounter and are committed to providing flexible academic pathways designed to meet your needs.

1. Understanding the Academic Pathways for Active Duty and Veteran students

At The Citadel, we offer flexible programs to accommodate the unique needs of veteran students. Whether you’re seeking a bachelor’s, master’s degree or graduate certificate, veterans have access to all programs and are supported by an environment that understands and values your military service.

Active Duty Student

A student who is currently on active duty and will enroll in a commissioning program at The Citadel such as Green to Gold, MECEP or STA-21.

College Transfer Student

A student who has earned credits at another institution and is looking to complete a bachelor’s degree. Transfer students can complete their degree either in the evening or online. For a list of degree programs, visit our Programs Page.

Graduate Student

A veteran who has already earned a bachelor’s degree and is pursuing a master’s degree or graduate certificate. Graduate-level classes are offered in the evening or online. Visit our Programs Page for a complete list of graduate programs and certificate offerings.

Veteran Day Student

A student who will not be on active duty while attending classes at The Citadel and who provided a DD-214 with proof of honorable discharge and a minimum of 90 consecutive days of federal active service (excluding training) is considered a Veteran and is eligible to attend classes alongside cadets without the obligations associated with the Corps of Cadets. A Veteran Student would need to complete the Veteran Student application.

Returning Cadet Veteran

National Guard or Reserve cadets called to active duty during their time as members of the Corps of Cadets may return as veteran day students, provided they receive an honorable discharge via a DD-214.

2. Review Admission Requirements and Deadlines

3. Create Your Account and Start Your Application

  • First-time applicants need to create an account.
  • You will be able to view the status of your application by logging back in. Your account allows you to:
    • Request information
    • Submit an application
    • Upload supplemental documents
    • Register for events

4. Submit Your Application

  • Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $40 is required for the Graduate College and College Transfer Program applications.
  • You will be prompted to pay this fee once your online application is completed.

5. Upload Supplemental Documents

  • Many programs require additional documents (e.g., resume, writing sample, questionnaire, letter of intent).
  • Submission: Upload these documents as .pdf files directly in the application portal for efficiency.
  • If you encounter technical issues, you can email documents to cgc@citadel.edu.

6. Send Official Transcripts and Documents

  • Applicants must submit official transcripts from each institution attended (bachelor’s degree conferred and higher coursework). Official documents must meet the following criteria:
    • Must be sent directly from the issuing college/university/testing agency.
    • All official documents must be sealed and stamped by the issuing institution or sent electronically directly from the institution to The Citadel. Electronic official transcripts should be sent to cgc@citadel.edu. 
    • Documents sent through student interference or by the student will be considered unofficial.
    • Note: Active Duty students with fewer than 30 credit hours are required to submit official high school transcripts in addition to their college transcripts.
  • Sending Transcripts:
    • The Citadel Graduate College
      171 Moultrie Street
      Charleston, SC 29409
    • For electronic submission, students can use Parchment.
    • Certified electronic submissions can be sent to cgc@citadel.edu.

7. Check the Status of Your Application

  • Log into your account to check the status of your supplemental items.
  • At the bottom of your account home page, select the link to “Submit Supplemental Items.”
  • Items will be marked as “Received” once processed by the admissions office (allow 1-2 business days).

8. Complete your Veteran Educational Benefits

  1. Apply to the VA for Education Benefits
    • Visit www.va.gov to submit your application for VA education benefits.
    • Note: The VA typically takes 30-45 business days (approximately 5-9 weeks) to process applications. Processing times can sometimes be longer, so apply as early as possible. You may submit your VA application even if you haven’t been officially admitted to The Citadel.
  2. Obtain Your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
    • Once your application is approved, the VA will issue a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This document confirms your eligibility and details the benefits you’re entitled to receive.
    • Please provide a copy of your COE to the Veteran Student Success Center at The Citadel at va_benefits@citadel.edu
  3. Determine Your Benefits:
    • To apply, you’ll need to know which VA educational benefits you are eligible for. If you’re unsure, review the options below to learn more.

For more information, please visit our VA Educational Benefits page.

9. Await Communication Regarding Your Application Status

  • You will receive an email once your application is complete and sent for review.
  • Expect a decision within 5-10 business days. Admission decisions are communicated via email.

10. Deferring Your Application

  • Students may defer their entry term once, for up to one year.
  • If you wish to request a new entry term beyond one year, you must reapply. Contact our office to defer your entry term: