Veterans

Admissions FAQ

• Does UCR have an ROTC program?

  A: While UCR does not have its own ROTC program, opportunities are available through cooperative agreements with other universities whose ROTC programs welcome our students. You may enroll in ROTC courses at another institution while completing your degree program at UCR with:

  • Army ROTC: UCR students have participated in Army ROTC since 1995 under an affiliate relationship through Claremont McKenna College . UCR is one of six universities in the Inland Empire that make up the “Golden Lions Battalion.” Other partner institutions include California Baptist University, California State University San Bernardino, Azusa Pacific University, and California State Polytechnic University. Contact: armyrotc@ucr.edu  or (951) 827-2764.
  • Airforce ROTC: AFROTC offers two-, three-, and four-year programs leading to a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. Freshmen and sophomores take one hour of academics and two hours of leadership laboratory a week; juniors and seniors take three hours of academics and two hours of leadership laboratory a week. Scholarships covering up to 100 percent annual tuition for one to four years along with a nontaxable monthly stipend are available. Contact: admissions@ucr.edu  or (951) 827-3411. Complete the form at admissions.ucr.edu/ask  to be connected with an admissions counselor.
• What happens if I get called up to active duty while enrolled at UCR?

  A: UCR wants to make it as easy as possible for you to leave without worrying about your education and return. Below are policies and resources designed to help you during this transition.

  • If you are an incoming student who is called to active duty, you may be able to obtain a waiver of the $60 University Application Processing Fee. The fee can be credited toward admission for another quarter during the same academic year. For questions, or to see if you qualify, complete the form at admissions.ucr.edu/ask  to be connected with an admissions counselor. 
  • The U.S. Department of Education has modified the withdrawal requirements of colleges for the "Return of Title IV Funds" for students called to active duty. Typically, when a student totally withdraws from classes, colleges have 30 days to return a portion of federal student aid the student has received. For more information, contact Financial Aid at (951) 827-3878.
  • The U.S. Department of Education has issued special guidance to lenders regarding reservists who have Perkins, Stafford or PLUS loans. If you are a member of the National Guard or Reserves, and are ordered to active military duty, you should notify your lenders to request extended loan deferments and/or forbearance while on active duty.
  • If you think you might be called to active service, learn how you can Set Up Authorized Users to access your records and student account. This permits designated users such as your parent(s), spouse, or friend to take actions, such as withdrawal from the university on your behalf.
  • Military.com's Deployment Guides and Resources will help you through deployment.
  • Returning Service Members (OEF/OIF/OND):  details the VA benefits available to returning veterans: employment, housing, health and dental care, life insurance, and more! 
  • DoD Deployment Health Clinical Center helps veterans get mental health treatment and support. 
• How do I apply for priority enrollment?

  A: UCR offers priority enrollment to all veterans and members of the military beginning with the second quarter of enrollment. This will happen automatically if you have visited the Office of Financial Aid to request U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs education benefits. Otherwise, please contact Financial Aid at vasco@ucr.edu or (951) 827-4921 to discuss the documentation needed to initiate priority enrollment. Then, watch your R’Mail for notification of the course enrollment date.