UB taking part in SUNY military tuition program

UB is one of nearly two dozen SUNY institutions taking part in a new initiative that ensures a SUNY education is affordable for active service military members.

The new SUNY military tuition rate, announced on Veterans Day by Chancellor John B. King Jr., aligns SUNY tuition with federal tuition benefits, filling the gap when federal tuition assistance falls short of the cost of full tuition at SUNY institutions.

The program is available for active-duty service members, members of the National Guard and members of the reserves who are pursuing SUNY undergraduate degrees and micro-credential programs in person or online.

It begins in the spring 2026 semester at the selected SUNY campuses and will extend to all SUNY campuses beginning in fall 2026.

“As part of SUNY’s ongoing efforts to honor the heroes who have answered the call to serve, we are taking action for those who currently serve today,” King said in announcing the new initiative. “With the new military tuition rate, SUNY is removing barriers and making sure cost is never what stands between service members and their education.

“On Veterans Day, and every day, SUNY is proud to support our veterans, active-duty service members, and military-connected students.”

UB has long been recognized for its support of the military. The university has been ranked as one of the top military-friendly Tier 1 research institutions in the U.S. for 2025-26 by MilitaryFriendly.com. The designation honors institutions that provide the best opportunities for veterans and their spouses by evaluating the various factors that help make colleges, universities and other institutions a good fit for military veterans and their families.

In addition to being considered a military-friendly school, institutions can be designated as a Top 10 or a gold, silver or bronze institution. UB received a silver designation within the Tier 1 research institutions, which are doctoral degree-granting universities that engage in the highest research activity.

Brian F. Hamluk, vice president for student life, noted that UB is proud to be ranked as one of the top schools in the country in supporting veteran students.

“This (SUNY) tuition initiative will serve to further support the defining moments students face when returning from service to civilian life in pursuit of their UB degree,” Hamluk said. “Our campus community is stronger with our veteran and military students, and we are committed to fostering their success.”

UB enrolled 768 military-connected students in spring 2025, which includes students who are veterans and those who remain in active service, as well as their dependents.