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iTransfer.org
The Illinois Transfer Student Portal

Veterans Students

Continue Your Education with Confidence

Whether you're beginning college, returning after military service, or transferring to a new institution, iTransfer provides resources to help veteran students understand their transfer options and plan with confidence. Explore information about transfer credit opportunities, connect with participating Illinois colleges and universities, and discover resources designed to support your educational journey. No matter where you are in the transfer process, iTransfer can help you take the next step toward achieving your academic and career goals.

Information about the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI):

Veterans' Admission Checklist

The Veterans' Admission Checklist is designed to help veterans and military-connected students successfully transition to college after military service. It provides guidance on admissions processes, educational benefits, important deadlines, and key campus contacts, helping students navigate enrollment and access the resources available at their chosen institution.

Learn more about the Veterans' Admission Checklist

Military Credit Options

Veterans and active-duty military personnel may be eligible to earn college credit through several pathways that recognize military learning, training, and experience.

  • Joint Services Transcript (JST): The JST provides an official record of military training, education, and occupational experiences. Colleges and universities may evaluate this transcript and award academic credit based on recommendations from the American Council on Education (ACE).
  • Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) Examinations: Through the DANTES program, service members may earn college credit by demonstrating knowledge and skills through approved examinations.
  • Military Training and Experience: Many institutions award credit for specialized military schools, technical training, leadership programs, and occupational experience documented through military records.

Because policies for awarding military credit vary by institution, students should work closely with admissions staff, academic advisors, and veterans' services offices to determine how military credits may apply toward certificates, degrees, and transfer goals.

American Council on Education (ACE) Credits

Service members and veterans may be eligible to receive college credit for military training, coursework, and occupational experience completed during their military service. The American Council on Education (ACE) evaluates military learning and recommends appropriate college credit based on the knowledge and skills demonstrated through military education and training.

ACE works in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense to review military courses and occupations and provide credit recommendations that institutions may use when evaluating military learning. These recommendations are documented through resources such as the ACE Military Guide, the Joint Services Transcript (JST), and the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF).

Because institutions differ in how they award and apply ACE-recommended credit, service members and veterans are encouraged to consult with education service officers, veterans' services staff, transfer specialists, or academic advisors familiar with military learners. Individuals who are no longer serving may also benefit from seeking guidance from independent organizations and advisors experienced in military-to-college transitions.

Students should consult their intended institution to determine how ACE-recommended credit may apply toward certificates, degrees, transfer requirements, and academic goals. ACE credit recommendations appear in the ACE Military Guide, JST (Joint Services Transcript), and the Community College of the Air Force.

The Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES)

DANTES is the  U.S. Department of Defense program that helps service members earn college credit and pursue degrees, certifications, and other educational goals while serving in the military.

Veterans Resources

Illinois veterans and military-connected students have access to a wide range of educational resources as they explore college, career training, and transfer opportunities. Many institutions also provide support for evaluating and applying military training, experience, and credit toward degree and certificate programs.

As you consider your educational options, be sure to connect with the Veterans Services Office at the institutions you are interested in attending. These offices can provide guidance on admissions, military and veteran benefits, transfer credit, academic planning, and campus support services. Their staff understand the unique experiences of military learners and can help you navigate the path toward earning a degree, certificate, or workforce credential.

Thank you for your service.

Important Note: The resources listed in this section are official federal, state, and institutional organizations that support veterans and military-connected students. While many private and nonprofit programs also offer valuable educational assistance, the resources highlighted here are particularly relevant to statewide transfer initiatives, including iTransfer and the Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI). Students are encouraged to explore both institutional and external resources to identify funding opportunities, educational programs, career pathways, and support services that align with their goals.

Veteran Resources

These organizations can provide assistance with educational benefits, transfer credit, financial aid, career planning, and support throughout your academic journey.

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