Allegany College of Maryland, which has long helped military veterans make a solid transition to civilian life, ranks among the top 15 percent of U.S. post-secondary schools deemed most military friendly by G.I. Jobs magazine.
Schools on the just-released 2011 list range from state universities and private colleges to community colleges and trade schools who share the priority of recruiting students with military experience.

The Pittsburgh, Pa.-based magazine polled more than 7,000 schools nationwide to judge their efforts to recruit and retain military and veteran students. It used criteria and methodology devised by a nationwide academic advisory board. G.I. Jobs will publish its survey findings in its annual Guide to Military Friendly Schools.

"This list is especially important now because the Post-9/11 GI Bill has given veterans virtually unlimited financial means to go to school," said Rich McCormack, publisher of G.I. Jobs.

"Veterans can now enroll in any school provided they're academically qualified. Veterans need a trusted friend to help them decide where to get educated. The Military Friendly Schools list is that trusted friend."

The Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2008, an updated version of the original GI Bill enacted during World War II, will provide a free education for thousands of veterans who served after Sept. 10, 2001.  It pays for tuition, fees, housing allowance, books and supplies and tutoring. Moving costs and training programs also are paid for under certain circumstances. The percentage of benefits covered depends on the individual's length of active-duty service, typically 90 days or more and a minimum 30 days in the case of a service-connected disability.

ACM's point of contact for military veterans returning to school is Jennifer Engelbach, associate registrar and coordinator of veterans affairs.

"It's important that we recognize veterans who are now students for their service to our country," said Engelbach. "It's as important that we help them utilize their benefits in their quest for success in their educational and career goals. Veterans earn their benefits by providing a service that is undeniably selfless."

G.I. Jobs, a magazine for veterans making a transition to civilian life, will post the 2011 list of most military-friendly schools at www.militaryfriendlyschools.com in late September. The Website features interactive tools that allow veterans to pinpoint schools that best meet their personal educational needs.