Admissions

Military Student Admissions at Nichols College

Nichols College in Dudley, Massachusetts proudly supports active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families in achieving higher education goals.

Nichols College is a Top Military Friendly College in New England

We understand the unique needs of military-affiliated students and provide programs, services, and benefits to help you transition smoothly into college life while balancing service and family commitments.

Nichols College is committed to helping military students succeed academically, professionally, and personally. We are a top Military Friendly® School, achieving the No. 1 ranking and Top 10 status among private institutions that do not offer a doctoral degree. The ranking reflects an improvement over last year’s Gold Level status—itself a notable achievement—and signifies that Nichols is a national leader in supporting and embracing the educational pursuits of active military service members, veterans, spouses and their children.

Here are other ways that Nichols stands out as an active and veteran-friendly college in New England:

  • Flexible Academic Options: Full-time, part-time, and online programs designed to fit military schedules.
  • Recognition of Military Experience: Transfer credits for military training and coursework through JST or ACE evaluations.
  • Veteran-Friendly Community: Dedicated advisors, support services, and career guidance tailored to active-duty, veteran, and family students.
  • Location and Resources: A supportive New England campus with convenient access to local military resources and a network of veteran peers.
  • Financial Benefits: Participation in GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon programs to help offset tuition costs.

How to Apply

Steps to Apply:

  1. Submit your application via the Nichols application or the Common App.
  2. Check your status: log into your Nichols applicant portal to track your progress.
  3. Receive your decision and take your next step toward becoming a Bison!

Application Requirements for Military Undergraduates

  • A completed Nichols College undergraduate application
  • Official final high school transcript or GED certificate
  • Official college transcript(s) from all institutions attended, if applicable
  • Essay or personal statement regarding your desire to attend college
  • One letter of recommendation (waived if you have been out of high school for over five years)
  • SAT or ACT scores (waived if you have been out of high school for over two years)

Take the Next Step

Serving Those Who Served

Using GI Bill® or Yellow Ribbon Benefits Nichols College participates in both the GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon programs to help eligible students maximize their educational benefits. Our financial aid team works closely with students to ensure full access to these benefits.

Military Financial Aid

Nichols College provides financial assistance specifically for military-affiliated students:

  • GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon Programs
  • Merit-based scholarships for veterans and military family members
  • Assistance with federal and state financial aid programs
  • Guidance to maximize benefits and reduce out-of-pocket costs

Approved for Veterans Benefits

Transfer of Military Credits

We recognize military training and coursework through:

  • Joint Services Transcript (JST)
  • American Council on Education (ACE) evaluations

This allows military students to receive credit for skills and experience gained in service, shortening the time to degree completion.

Support Services for Veterans and Active-Duty Students

Nichols College provides comprehensive support tailored to military-affiliated students:

  • Dedicated military and veteran advisors for academic and career guidance
  • Access to veteran-specific career services and networking opportunities
  • Peer mentoring and veteran student community groups
  • Flexible scheduling and online learning options
  • Assistance with VA paperwork, benefits, and certification

Key Admission Dates for Military Students

  • Application Deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
  • Hear Back from Us: You’ll typically receive your admission decision within two weeks of submitting your application.
  • Secure Your Spot: Submit your enrollment deposit to officially join the Nichols community.
    • Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026
  • Financial Aid and Scholarships
  • Orientation and Registration

We want to talk to you!

We’re here to help, so if you have questions about Nichols, our application process, or scheduling a visit, contact our Admissions office at admissions@nichols.edu or by phone at (508) 213-2203 or 1-800-470-3379.

Explore our Undergraduate Online (UGO) Programs

Interested in pursuing a Nichols College bachelor’s degree entirely online? Our Undergraduate Online (UGO) Program accommodates many schedules, including active duty members and veterans.

Learn more here
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take a leave for deployment?

Nichols College understands that military obligations can require students to pause their studies. Military-affiliated students are encouraged to notify the admissions or advising team as early as possible if deployment or training impacts enrollment, so appropriate academic and administrative options can be discussed.

What support is available for military spouses?

Nichols College supports military spouses through flexible academic options, dedicated advising and access to financial aid resources. Military spouses receive guidance throughout the admissions process and can take advantage of online, part-time and full-time programs designed to fit changing schedules.

Can my military training count toward college credit?

Yes. Nichols College recognizes military training and coursework through Joint Services Transcript (JST) and American Council on Education (ACE) evaluations. Approved credits may be applied toward degree requirements, helping reduce time to completion.

What support is available if I’m deployed or need to take a leave?

Nichols College works with military-affiliated students to provide academic flexibility when service obligations arise. Students should contact their advisor or the military admissions team to review options related to enrollment status, coursework and timing.

Can my spouse or family members also access military education benefits?

Nichols College participates in programs such as Dependent’s Educational Assistance (DEA) and the Yellow Ribbon Program, which may allow eligible spouses or dependents to use military education benefits toward tuition.

Are there veteran-specific scholarships or financial aid opportunities?

Yes. Nichols College offers financial support options for military-affiliated students, including participation in GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon programs, as well as merit-based scholarships for veterans and military family members. The financial aid team helps students maximize benefits and reduce out-of-pocket costs.