How to Apply

With your courage, dedication, and resilience, who could be better equipped to conquer new educational frontiers than you? At Central Michigan University, we don't just understand this - we celebrate it. We see the potential in every uniform, the promise in every salute, and the opportunity in every military career. Your journey of service has shaped you into a leader, a problem-solver, and a team player - but are you ready to become a student again?

We believe you are. We've got your back, from credit transfers to financial aid, career counseling, and emotional support. So, are you ready to turn your military prowess into academic achievement with us? Your next mission begins here.

Step 1. Submit your application

CMU Online classes start several times throughout the year. Choose the term you wish to start your classes and where you want to take them (online or at one of our satellite centers) when you fill out your online application.

Apply Online

Step 2. See if you can waive the application fee

All U.S. military veterans, active duty, National Guard and Reserve service members are eligible to have their application fee waived. You must provide one of the following to CMU with your application:

- DD-214 form verifying service.
- Service verification letter from your command indicating your current duty station.
- VA Certificate of Eligibility (CoE).
- Active military ID if you are applying in person at a CMU satellite location.

Step 3. Send us your transcripts

Ask each of the institutions where you’ve done undergraduate or graduate coursework to send your official transcripts directly to CMU.

Your schools may send your transcripts by email to apply@cmich.edu or mail them to:

Central Michigan University

Attn: Transcript Department

802 Industrial Drive

Mount Pleasant, MI 48858

Step 4. Check your program's requirements

Some programs require additional materials with your application. Be sure to check your academic program to see whether your program has additional admissions requirements.

Program Finder

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have specific questions regarding military, veteran, spouse, or dependent enrollment, we can help. Call or email an enrollment specialist at 800-950-1144 or email us.

Do I qualify for CMU’s military tuition rate?

You’re eligible for our military tuition rates if you’re an active-duty reservist, guard member, or United States military member (Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps or Coast Guard). Your spouse and qualified dependents (per IRS guidelines) are also eligible for a current military benefits ID card. .

For details, see Tuition & Fees

Can I apply for financial aid in addition to my discounted tuition?

Yes! We encourage all our students to explore all types of financial aid, including grants, loans, and merit-based scholarships.

Learn more about Financial Aid

Can I earn credits for my military education?

Yes. We offer credits that are applicable to your degree program from a variety of military education sources.

MILITARY TRANSFER CREDIT

Will credits from other colleges transfer?

We welcome transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. The maximum number of transfer credits that can be applied toward your program depends on where the credits transfer from and what degree you pursue.

What other things I've learned will transfer?

We recognize the value of your learning through professional and life experiences with our Prior Learning Credit. A maximum of 60 undergraduate credits and 12 graduate credits may be applied toward your degree, saving you time and money on your program.

Prior Learning Credits

What are CMU's general education requirements?

General education for undergraduate programs at CMU consists of two areas of liberal study and achievement: University Program and Competency Requirements. These are required of all undergraduate students.

CMU Bulletin

Explore Financial Aid Options