Merage for Veterans
Empowering Military and Veteran Leaders to Lead in Business
About Us
We proudly welcome veterans and military applicants, recognizing the leadership and problem-solving skills they bring to the classroom. Through the Merage for Veterans initiative, we offer tailored support, a strong veteran community, and a world-class education that builds strategic business acumen. Our programs are designed to help you translate military experience into impactful civilian careers and prepare you for leadership in both public and private sectors.
Why Choose Us?
The UC Irvine Veteran Services Center, together with the Merage School, is dedicated to supporting our veteran community with resources, programs, and connections that build success on campus and beyond.
#16 Best Colleges for Veterans, U.S. News & World Report
Providing community, programs, and tailored support for military-connected students.
Veteran-friendly community that understands key transition challenges.
First veteran alumni mixer in June 2025 united veterans and alumni to celebrate shared service and connections.
Bobby Diaz EMBA '26
Bobby Diaz is a current Executive MBA student. Prior to joining the Merage School, Bobby studied aerospace engineering as a UC Irvine undegraduate before joining the U.S. Air Force as a pilot. He has been working at Tanium, a cybersecurity and systems management company since 2021 and was recently promoted to Regional Vice President of Sales for the Southwest Mid-Market.
Paul Araiza MPAc '18
The relationships I’ve made with faculty, students and advisors is something I’ll have for the rest of my life. Most of us are staying in the Orange County area, and though our paths may diverge, what we made here will last long beyond our time in the classroom.
Admissions for Veterans
All of our programs welcome veterans and affiliated family members. For specific program requirements, contact Lisa Shulman, Manager of Strategic Initiatives, MBA and Specialty Masters Programs, and she will connect you with the right resource.
- Veterans Service Center (VSC)
- Veteran Benefits Office (VBO)
- Veteran Ambassadors
Application Fee Waiver
The Merage School honors the service of military applicants by offering the $150 application fee waiver for various graduate programs. To request this waiver, reach out to the admissions director of your chosen program.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Education Benefits
Please contact the Veteran Benefits Office to inquire about receiving your VA education benefits at veteran@uci.edu.
California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet)
Education Benefits
The CalVet College Tuition Fee Waiver is only available to graduate business students who are enrolled in the Full-Time MBA, Master of Science in Biotechnology Management and PhD programs. Please contact the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships to inquire about receiving your CalVet education benefits at finaid@uci.edu. LEARN MORE >>
Community Resources
We are proud to offer dedicated support for our veteran community through academic and wellness services, student organizations, local partnerships, and networking opportunities. From on-campus resources to community events and an engaged alumni network, veterans and their families will find a strong foundation for success during and after their time at UC Irvine.
Student Ambassador
Steven Yang MBA '26
I'm a first-year, Full-Time MBA candidate focusing on strategy and management consulting. Prior to my MBA, I received a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California, Riverside. I then served four years as an active-duty Armor officer leading organizations of tanks and scouts in the U.S. Army. Managing programs and operations across different units and seeing fruitful progress over time led me to pursue my next career in consulting. Having grown up in Orange County, I chose Merage for its location, proximity to both professional and personal interests, and the unparalleled support that the program office and career services office provide for veterans. I enjoy traveling, playing golf, skydiving, and supporting my favorite players in fantasy football. I also volunteer with Service 2 School to assist transitioning veterans with applying to undergraduate and graduate programs.
Veterans Association Officers
We are a community dedicated to supporting veterans in their career goals and personal and professional growth at UC Irvine Paul Merage School of Business. Meet the officers leading this student organization below.
What’s Happening?
Our veterans bring leadership, resilience, and unique perspectives to our programs—learn how they’re shaping business and driving impact beyond the military.
Events coming soon!
