University News

WIU Named Top University in Illinois for Veterans

November 11, 2026

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL - - Western Illinois University has been named the No. 1 school in Illinois and No. 2 school in the Midwest for veterans by Military Times magazine.

The recognition makes WIU a "Best for Vets College" for the 16th year in a row and was ranked No. 33 in the country among public universities.

WIU is also recognized as a 2026 Top Veteran School and Military Friendly School by U.S. Veterans Magazine for creating meaningful education paths for the military community.

"Our military-affiliated students bring valuable experience and leadership to WIU," WIU President Kristi Mindrup said. "This recognition reflects the commitment of our faculty and staff to honor each student's service through personalized support, excellent academic pathways, and opportunities to achieve their goals."

WIU works closely to support veterans and military connected students to ensure benefits are processed efficiently and that they receive the support needed to achieve their educational goals. As an official Department of Defense Skill Bridge partner, WIU is uniquely positioned to support transitioning service members by providing meaningful civilian career development opportunities while they complete their military service.

The university also awards academic credit for military training and experience, helping students maximize prior learning and accelerate degree completion. Through academic support, career development, community engagement, and a strong commitment to military-affiliated student success, WIU fosters an environment where veterans and service members can thrive both in and out of the classroom. WIU's Veteran Resource Center also provides individualized guidance tailored to military affiliated students.

In addition to working with the federal and state benefits available to military members and their families, the University also accepts Pell, and the Illinois Map grant which go towards student's education costs, as well as giving resources to hundreds of campus-wide or department specific scholarships.

To learn more about WIU's ranking from Military Times, visit bestforvets.militarytimes.com/colleges/2026/western-illinois-university-il.

For more information on WIU's status as a Top Veteran School, visit bit.ly/3UOeOr2.

For more information on WIU's Veterans Resource Center, visit wiu.edu/veterans.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing