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Military and Veteran Students

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Heather Chance

 

Logo for Wounded Warrior Project WWP on Campus October 20

The University of Arkansas -Fort Smith and Wounded Warrior Project will host a free public event Monday, October 20, to connect veterans, active-duty service members, and military families with connection, support services, and community resources. 

It will feature a keynote address from U.S. Army veteran Dr. Yolanda Poullard, a panel discussion with local advocates and veterans, and resource tables staffed by Wounded Warrior Project and the UAFS Office of Financial Aid and Veterans Benefits. 

Visit Calendar Listing for Details


Serving Those Who've Served

Military Friendly School 2025–2026 Silver badge featuring a blue circular seal with a stylized ‘M’ and silver stripes.At the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, we're proud to serve those who've served. Whether you're active-duty, a veteran, a member of the National Guard or Reserve, or a military family member, UAFS offers the resources, flexibility, and respect you deserve.

Student veterans find the respect, support, and flexibility they need to succeed. The Veteran Resource Center offers a welcoming place to connect and get help, and personalized guidance ensures you make the most of your education benefits. With flexible classes, priority registration, and a community that understands your journey, UAFS is here to help you thrive.


Military Friendly Spouse School 2025–2026 badge featuring a blue circular seal with a stylized ‘M’ and red stripes.

Why military-affiliated students choose UAFS

  • Military Friendly® School (Silver). Recognized nationally for our commitment to service members and veterans.
  • Priority registration for veterans and eligible dependents. 
  • On-campus VA support. Get help from a dedicated VA School Certifying Official and VA Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
  • Veteran Resource Center (VRC). A welcoming space to study, relax, and connect with fellow students.
  • Affordable tuition and aid. Use your GI® Bill, Military Tuition Assistance, VA Work-Study, or the Arkansas National Guard Tuition Waiver (NGTW).
  • Credit for service. Apply your military training and experience (JST/CCAF) toward your degree.
  • CCAF GEM Partner. Complete approved general education courses online from anywhere.

How to get started

  1. Apply for free. There's no application fee — get started in minutes
  2. Request your military transcripts. Send your Joint Services Transcript (JST) or Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) record.
  3. Use your benefits. Visit Veteran Services in the menu to learn more about the GI Bill® and Tuition Assistance
  4. Certify your enrollment. After you register each term, submit the Veteran Request to Certify Hours form to activate your benefits.

Find your community

Visit the Veteran Resource Center in Room 120 of the Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, to connect with peers and staff. Join the Student Veterans Organization (SVO) through Numalink and get involved on campus.

Need help or have questions?

Heather Chance smiles at the cameraHeather Chance
VA School Certifying Official and Financial Aid Advisor
 Heather.ChanceFREEuafs
Phone: 479-788-7091
Office: Smith-Pendergraft Campus Center, Room 214

Heather Chance is a higher education professional with over a decade of experience helping students achieve their academic goals. As the VA School Certifying Official and a financial aid advisor at UAFS, she supports veterans and their families in accessing education benefits, financial aid, and campus resources for success in and beyond the classroom.

Logo of the Association of Veterans Education Certifying Officials (AVECO) showing an American flag and eagle graphic with the text ‘2025 Member.Logo of the National Association of Veteran Program Administrators (NAVPA) featuring a blue graduation cap with red and white stripes, a blue star, and smaller white stars.


GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website.