Albany State wins VA approval for Yellow Ribbon aid

Albany State University has secured U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs approval for its Yellow Ribbon Program Agreement, expanding tuition support for military-connected students starting with the 2026-27 academic year. The move adds another layer of financial aid and campus support for nearly 600 veterans, service members and family members enrolled at the Georgia HBCU.

Why it matters: - The Yellow Ribbon approval can reduce out-of-pocket tuition and fee costs for students whose Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits do not fully cover attendance. - The program strengthens Albany State University’s ability to recruit and retain veterans, active-duty service members, Reservists, National Guard members, spouses and dependents. - The agreement adds to a broader support system aimed at helping military-connected students finish degrees without added financial strain.

What happened: - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs approved Albany State University’s Yellow Ribbon Program Agreement. - The agreement takes effect for the 2026-2027 academic year, from Aug. 1, 2026, through July 31, 2027. - The program will appear on the VA GI Bill® Comparison Tool beginning in July 2026. - Mrs. Chassidy Jackson, interim director of the Office of Military and Adult Education, led the effort.

The details: - Albany State University will contribute funds to help cover tuition and fees not fully paid by the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. - Eligible veterans, service members and military family members can receive enhanced educational benefits and financial support through the program. - Nearly 600 military-affiliated students currently attend Albany State University. - The military-connected student population includes veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, Reservists, military spouses and dependents. - Albany State University offers a dedicated Military Success Coordinator. - The university provides priority registration and specialized military and veteran support services. - Albany State University accepts VA and Department of Defense education benefits. - The university awards credit for military training and exams such as CLEP and DSST. - Eligible students may qualify for in-state tuition. - VA work-study opportunities are available. - ASU has Green Zone-trained faculty and staff. - The university has an active Student Veterans of America chapter. - Albany State University is located minutes from Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany. - The school offers flexible learning options, including extensive online programs, for students managing deployments, relocations and work responsibilities. - Dr. Jarrod D. Benjamin, vice president for student affairs and enrollment management, said the approval reflects the university’s commitment to supporting military, veteran and military family students. - Benjamin also said Mrs. Jackson’s leadership was instrumental in securing the resource.

Between the lines: - The approval reinforces Albany State University’s push to position itself as a military-friendly campus. - The combination of financial aid, academic credit for prior service and flexible course access can lower barriers that often slow degree completion for military-connected students. - Albany State University’s status as Georgia’s largest public HBCU gives the program a broader reach across a diverse student body.

What’s next: - Albany State University will list the Yellow Ribbon Program on the VA comparison tool in July 2026. - Eligible students can learn more at ASU military services or by contacting the Office of Military and Adult Education at veterans@asurams.edu. - The university expects the program to help welcome more military-connected students to campus.

The bottom line: - Albany State University now has federal approval to extend tuition-gap support for military-connected students at a time when access, affordability and completion are central to its enrollment strategy.