WKU News

Western Kentucky University has once again been recognized as the best college in Kentucky for military-affiliated students, earning a top fifty ranking on the 2025 Military Times Best for Vets: Colleges rankings. WKU ranked 49th overall nationwide, first in Kentucky, third in the Appalachian region, tenth among traditional and online institutions, and 40th among public colleges. This marks the second consecutive year WKU has claimed the top spot in the Commonwealth.

The Military Times Best for Vets list is the largest and most comprehensive annual ranking of institutions committed to supporting service members, veterans, and their families. This year’s list includes 357 colleges and universities, evaluated on academic quality, affordability, student support services, and veteran success metrics, using both survey data and public information from the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Now in its 15th year, the ranking remains a trusted resource for military-affiliated students exploring higher education options.

WKU’s continued strong performance underscores the university’s deep commitment to serving veterans and military-connected students. Through dedicated programs such as Military Student Services and Veterans Upward Bound, WKU provides personalized guidance, academic resources, and community support to help veterans thrive during their transition to higher education and beyond.

For more information and the full rankings, visit Best for Vets 2025.

To contact Military Student Services, visit wku.edu/veterans.