Military Times ranks university No. 1 in Kentucky
Bellarmine University is one of the nation's best colleges for veterans, service members, and military families, according to new rankings from Military Times.
Bellarmine ranks No. 11 nationally and No. 1 in Kentucky in the publication's 2026 Best for Vets: Colleges rankings, released this week. The university also ranks No. 2 among private, nonprofit institutions nationwide.
The annual rankings evaluate colleges on how effectively they support military-connected students, with particular emphasis on student success, military-specific resources, and financial assistance. This year's rankings recognize 370 institutions across all 50 states.
"These rankings reflect Bellarmine’s commitment to helping military-connected students succeed," said Dr. Michael Wade, director of Bellarmine's Office of Military and Veteran Services. "Whether they're veterans transitioning to civilian life, National Guard members balancing service with coursework, or military dependents beginning their college experience, we want them to know they belong here because we are invested in their success. This recognition belongs to the faculty, staff, and students across Bellarmine who live that commitment every day."
Bellarmine's military-connected student population continues to grow, bringing together veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, ROTC cadets, and military dependents.
Bellarmine offers an impressive array of financial and academic benefits designed for military-connected students, including:
- Participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program, with no cap on institutional contributions for eligible programs.
- A discounted tuition rate of $250 per credit hour for active-duty, reserve, and National Guard service members in eligible programs.
- Credit for Prior Learning opportunities that can recognize previous military education and training.
- Priority course registration and assistance navigating military education benefits, including the GI Bill.
- Access to Army and Air Force ROTC programs through Metroversity partnerships.
Beyond the classroom, Bellarmine offers opportunities for military-connected students to build community through Knights of Valor, a registered student organization affiliated with Student Veterans of America. The university also offers a Valor Learning Community for first-year military dependents, along with ongoing events and programming that bring military-connected students together.
The university's Office of Military and Veteran Services provides dedicated support, from navigating educational benefits to connecting students with academic resources and campus activities. The office works closely with departments across campus – including the Student Success Center, Financial Aid, the Business Office, and Athletics – to help students balance their educational goals with the demands of military service and family life.
Wade credits university leadership and colleagues across campus for creating an environment in which military-connected students can thrive.
"Being recognized among the best in the country is something we're proud of, but it isn't the finish line," Wade said. "Our focus is on what we can do next to make Bellarmine an even better place for the people who have served our country and the families who serve alongside them."
Prospective students can learn more about Bellarmine's military education benefits, academic programs, and student support services at bellarmine.edu/military-and-veteran-services.