College Earns Top 10 State Ranking for Veterans in 2025 Military Times List
A sustained commitment to serving student veterans has placed Moreno Valley College among the top-ranked community colleges for military-connected students in the 2025 Military Times “Best for Vets” rankings.
The college ranked No. 7 in California and No. 13 across the Western United States, marking the fourth consecutive year it has been recognized by Military Times for its veteran-focused programs, services, and outcomes. The annual rankings are widely used by veterans and service members to evaluate institutions based on support structures, financial benefits, and student success measures.
“This is a proud moment for our district and highlights the strong impact of our collective work,” said Mark Diaz, veterans services coordinator at Moreno Valley College.
The 2025 results also reflect the broader strength of the Riverside Community College District (RCCD). Norco College, another RCCD institution, also ranked this year, earning No. 13 in California and No. 19 in the Western region.
According to Military Times, the “Best for Vets” rankings evaluate colleges on factors that directly affect veteran students, including participation in the GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon Program, academic policies designed for military learners, graduation and retention outcomes, and the availability of dedicated veteran services. The methodology incorporates data from the U.S. Department of Education, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and institution-reported information.
“Being ranked No. 7 in California and No. 13 in the Western region by Military Times is a tremendous accomplishment and a testament to the hard work of the Veterans Resource Center team and the entire MVC community,” said Charles Roosevelt, Ed.D., vice president of student services. “This recognition not only elevates MVC’s reputation but also reinforces our mission to provide exceptional resources and services to those who have served our nation.”
Moreno Valley College supports veterans and military-connected students through a comprehensive network of academic, personal, and career-focused services. The Veterans Resource Center provides assistance with VA and Department of Defense benefits, academic advising, class registration, mentorship, career planning, and referrals for legal and financial support. Students also have access to priority registration, VA Work-Study opportunities, and government-mandated funding designated for military-connected learners.
Academic support is delivered through the Academic Success Center, which offers one-on-one and group tutoring, Supplemental Instruction for challenging courses, and 24/7 online tutoring through the college’s Canvas platform. Veteran students may also qualify for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Tutorial Assistance Program, which provides up to $1,200 in financial support for tutoring services.
Mental health services are a central component of the college’s veteran support framework. Moreno Valley College partners with U.S. VETS “Outside the Wire” to provide no-cost mental health counseling, case management, and workshops funded through the California Veterans Health Initiative and the California Department of Veterans Affairs. Campus counselors are trained in military-related mental health issues, suicide prevention, and stress management, with additional referrals available through VA and community providers.
To learn more, the 2025 ranking is available online.
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 Web site at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.