South University, Columbia Secures Top Veteran-Friendly Campus Recognition
Event summary
- South University, Columbia earned Gold Grade recognition from the South Carolina Department of Veterans' Affairs on August 10, 2026.
- The award is the highest level in the state's Military Academic Recognition Program, valid for one academic year.
- SCDVA cited the campus's dedicated Veterans Center, military cultural competency training, and financial/academic support as key factors.
- The campus waives application fees for veterans, matches GI Bill payments, and participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program.
The big picture
This recognition positions South University, Columbia as a leader in veteran education services at a time when institutions nationwide face increasing scrutiny over military student outcomes. The award highlights the strategic importance of specialized support structures in attracting and retaining this student demographic. With over 10,000 students across its system, South University's approach could influence broader higher education practices in military student support.
What we're watching
- Program Sustainability
- Whether South University can maintain this level of support across its 11 campuses and online programs.
- Competitive Differentiation
- How this recognition impacts enrollment and retention of military-connected students compared to peers.
- Policy Influence
- The potential for this model to become a benchmark for other state veteran education programs.