MARSHALL — Southwest Minnesota State University has been ranked third in the country in the small public university class by Military Friendly® Schools.

Military Friendly® rates schools based on six categories: academic policies and compliance, admissions and orientation, culture and commitment, financial aid and assistance, graduation and career, and military student support and retention. SMSU exceeds the benchmark standard in all categories.

“The Veterans Association is very proud to see SMSU recognized as one of the top Military Friendly® schools in the county,” said Justin Guggisberg, veterans resource officer. “We all work hard to support our veterans, active-duty service members and their families, and it’s nice to be recognized for all that effort. The university greatly deserves this ranking for all that they do for the veteran community.”

There are numerous college classifications within the rankings, such as large public, small public, research institutions, private offering doctorate, large community college, etc. SMSU is classified in the small public institution category.