Starting this fall, active-duty military students at ETSU will see a major drop in tuition – nearly half off.

Thanks to recent action by the ETSU Board of Trustees, undergraduate students using Department of Defense Tuition Assistance (TA) will pay no more than $250 per credit hour. It’s a big win for those balancing military service and college coursework, as well as a reflection of ETSU’s ongoing commitment to military-affiliated students.

Who qualifies?  

This new tuition rate applies to:

Active-duty military AND

  • Undergraduate students using Department of Defense Tuition Assistance
  • Graduate students and veterans using other forms of education benefits (like the GI Bill®) are not covered by this specific rate but still have access to many resources and financial support options.

How do I apply?

  • Use your TA benefits: Start by working with your unit’s education office to request Tuition Assistance through the Department of Defense.
  • Submit your TA authorization: Once your TA is approved, send your authorization form to ETSU’s Bursar Office at bursar@etsu.edu or deliver it in person.
  • Connect with Military and Veteran Services: Not sure where to begin? Need help navigating your options? ETSU’s Office of Military and Veteran Services is here to walk you through the process. Email va@etsu.edu or call (423) 439-6819.  

Why ETSU?

ETSU is one of just 32 large public universities nationwide to earn Gold status in the 2025–26 Military Friendly® School rankings. That means real support, not just words.

  • Nearly half of ETSU students graduate with no student loan debt.
  • 85% receive some form of financial aid.
  • ETSU has consistently ranked in the top 10% nationally for students graduating with the least debt.