North Dakota Veteran Healthcare, Education & Jobs Guide 2025

Bottom Line Up Front

North Dakota offers solid veteran healthcare through the Fargo VA Medical Center and 10 community-based outpatient clinics covering all major cities (Bismarck, Minot, Grand Forks, Williston, Dickinson). The system serves 34,000+ veterans across North Dakota, northwest Minnesota, and northeast South Dakota. Wait times are generally shorter than larger VA systems, and rural veterans benefit from extensive clinic coverage—you're never more than 90 minutes from VA care.

For education, the University of North Dakota and North Dakota State University both participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program with unlimited student slots, covering 100% of tuition for Post-9/11 GI Bill recipients. North Dakota also offers a 25% tuition waiver + 75% grant for National Guard members and free tuition for 45 months for dependents of 100% disabled or killed-in-action veterans.

Employment opportunities are excellent, with North Dakota's veteran unemployment at just 2.3% (among the lowest nationally). Oil and gas jobs in the Bakken oil fields pay $50,000-$112,000+ annually. Minot AFB (economic impact $651M) and Grand Forks AFB employ 1,200+ civilians combined. State/local government jobs offer veterans preference. Agriculture, healthcare, and tech sectors actively recruit veterans.

Challenges? Brutal winters (January averages 5-17°F), rural isolation in western counties, and limited public transportation. Healthcare access is good but requires driving for specialized care if you're not in Fargo. Housing is affordable (median $280,600) but inventory is tight in Bismarck and Fargo.

Overall verdict: North Dakota excels for career-focused veterans in energy, agriculture, or federal employment, and for student veterans using GI Bill benefits at UND/NDSU. Healthcare is solid but not exceptional. Best for self-sufficient veterans comfortable with cold weather, rural living, and strong work ethic. Avoid if you need specialized medical care frequently or can't tolerate harsh winters.

VA Healthcare Access

Fargo VA Medical Center

Location & Contact:

• Address: 2101 Elm Street North, Fargo, ND 58102
• Phone: (701) 232-3241 or 1-800-410-9723
• Website: va.gov/fargo-health-care

Services Offered:

• Inpatient Care: 36 acute care beds
• Community Living Center: 38 beds (long-term care)
• Primary Care: Full-service primary care clinics
• Specialty Care: Cardiology, dermatology, gastroenterology, mental health, orthopedics, podiatry, urology, women's health
• Surgical Services: General surgery, orthopedic surgery
• Emergency Care: Available 24/7
• Mental Health: PTSD treatment, substance abuse programs, readjustment counseling
• Pharmacy: Full-service pharmacy with mail delivery
• Audiology: Hearing tests, hearing aids
• Optometry: Eye exams, glasses
• Radiology: X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound

Quality Ratings:

• Joint Commission accredited medical/surgical hospital
• Generally positive patient reviews for rural VA system
• Wait times typically shorter than larger urban VA facilities

Enrollment: Over 34,000 veterans enrolled in the VA Fargo healthcare system, serving North Dakota, 17 counties in northwest Minnesota, and one county in northeast South Dakota.

Parking & Access:

• Free parking on-site
• Accessible via Fargo public transit (MAT Bus Route 17)
• Wheelchair accessible throughout

Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs)

North Dakota has 10 VA clinics strategically located to serve rural veterans:

Bismarck VA Clinic

• Address: 2700 State Street, Gateway Mall, Suite F, Bismarck, ND 58503
• Phone: (701) 221-9152
• Services: Primary care, mental health, lab, pharmacy (limited)
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
• Population served: 5,000+ veterans

Grand Forks VA Clinic

• Address: 3221 32nd Avenue South, Suite 700, Grand Forks, ND 58201
• Phone: (701) 451-4450
• Services: Primary care, mental health, lab, telehealth
• Near Grand Forks AFB (15 minutes)

Minot VA Clinic

• Address: 16 2nd Street SW, Minot, ND 58701
• Phone: (701) 852-7672
• Services: Primary care, mental health, lab
• Near Minot AFB (13 miles)

Williston VA Clinic

• Address: 3210 27th Street West, Harvest Plaza, Suite 210, Williston, ND 58801
• Phone: (701) 774-3377
• Services: Primary care, mental health, lab
• Serves Bakken oil field veterans

Dickinson VA Clinic

• Address: 3275 West Ridge Drive, West Ridge Market Center, Suite P, Dickinson, ND 58601
• Phone: (701) 456-4611
• Services: Primary care, mental health

Jamestown VA Clinic

• Address: 2430 20th Street Southwest, Suite 8, Jamestown, ND 58401
• Phone: (701) 952-4781
• Services: Primary care, mental health

Devils Lake VA Clinic

• Address: 1031 7th Street Northeast, Devils Lake, ND 58301
• Phone: (701) 665-0827
• Services: Primary care, mental health

Grafton VA Clinic

• Address: 1319 West 11th Street, Grafton, ND 58237
• Phone: (701) 352-0496
• Services: Primary care

North Fargo VA Clinic

• Located in Fargo area
• Provides additional access for Fargo-area veterans

Fargo Community Resource & Referral Center

• Address: 721 1st Avenue North, Fargo, ND 58102
• Phone: (701) 451-4700
• Services: Benefits counseling, care coordination, homeless veteran services, employment assistance

Transportation to VA Care

VA Transport Vans:

• 5 cost-free vans on scheduled routes bring veterans from rural areas to Fargo VA Medical Center
• Routes serve Bismarck, Minot, Grand Forks, Williston, and other communities
• Schedule: Varies by route; contact local VA clinic for details

Beneficiary Travel Reimbursement:

• Veterans may qualify for mileage reimbursement ($0.67.5/mile as of 2024) if traveling to VA care
• Eligibility: Service-connected disability 30%+, traveling for VA-authorized care, low-income status
• Apply at local VA clinic or Fargo VAMC

Community Care (Mission Act):

• If you live more than 40 miles from VA facility or wait time exceeds 20 days for primary care / 28 days for specialty care, you may qualify for Community Care
• Allows treatment at non-VA providers (private hospitals, clinics)
• North Dakota has Community Care agreements with Sanford Health, Essentia Health, CHI St. Alexius

Vet Centers

Fargo Vet Center

• Address: 3310 Fiechtner Drive, Suite 100, Fargo, ND 58103
• Phone: (701) 237-0942
• Services: Readjustment counseling, PTSD treatment, military sexual trauma (MST) counseling, substance abuse counseling, bereavement counseling, employment assistance
• Eligibility: Veterans who served in combat zone or experienced military sexual trauma; no VA enrollment required
• Hours: Monday-Friday, varies (call for appointment)

Vet Centers are separate from VA Medical Centers and focus on confidential counseling without impacting your VA disability rating. Many veterans prefer Vet Centers for mental health care due to non-clinical setting and veteran-centric approach.

Mobile Vet Center:

• Periodically visits rural North Dakota communities
• Check with Fargo Vet Center for schedule

Mental Health & Crisis Services

Veterans Crisis Line:

• Phone: 988, then press 1
• Text: 838255
• Chat: veteranscrisisline.net
• Available 24/7/365

Mental Health Services at Fargo VA:

• PTSD treatment programs
• Depression and anxiety treatment
• Substance abuse programs (SUDCC - Substance Use Disorder Clinic)
• Group therapy (combat trauma, anger management, grief)
• Telehealth mental health (remote video appointments)

Homeless Veteran Services:

• Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): Prevents homelessness, provides housing assistance
• HUD-VASH vouchers: Section 8 housing for homeless veterans
• Fargo VA Homeless Program served 460 individuals in 2024 (271 with mental health disorders)

How to Enroll in VA Healthcare

Eligibility:

• Served in active military, naval, or air service
• Discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
• Meet minimum service requirements (usually 24 months active duty or full period called to active duty)

Apply Online:

• va.gov/health-care/apply/application
• Or call 1-877-222-VETS (8387)

Apply in Person:

• Fargo VA Medical Center Enrollment Office: (701) 239-3700, ext. 93180
• Any North Dakota VA clinic

Documents Needed:

• DD Form 214 (Member Copy 4)
• Social Security card
• Insurance information (if you have private insurance)

Priority Groups: Veterans are assigned to Priority Groups 1-8 based on service-connected disability, income, and other factors. Priority Group 1 (50%+ service-connected) receives highest priority and pays no copays.

Prescription & Pharmacy Services

VA Pharmacy Locations:

• Fargo VA Medical Center (main pharmacy)
• Limited pharmacy at Bismarck, Minot, Grand Forks clinics

Mail-Order Prescriptions:

• Free mail delivery (90-day supply)
• Order online at myhealth.va.gov or call pharmacy

Copays:

• Veterans in Priority Groups 1-6: $0 copay
• Priority Groups 7-8: $11 copay per 30-day supply (generic), $57 copay (brand)

Education Benefits

GI Bill Overview

North Dakota fully supports all GI Bill programs, with excellent Yellow Ribbon participation and additional state benefits for National Guard members and dependents of disabled veterans.

Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33):

• Covers tuition and fees at public universities (up to in-state rate)
• Monthly housing allowance (BAH): $1,200-$1,500 in Fargo/Bismarck (varies by location)
• Books and supplies stipend: $1,000/year
• 36 months of benefits
• Transferable to spouse/dependents

Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB - Chapter 30):

• Monthly payment: $2,210 (2024 rate) for full-time students
• 36 months of benefits

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR&E - Chapter 31):

• For veterans with service-connected disability 10%+ causing employment handicap
• Covers tuition, fees, books, supplies, monthly stipend
• No time limit if within 12-year eligibility period

Survivors & Dependents (DEA - Chapter 35):

• For dependents of 100% P&T disabled or deceased veterans
• Monthly payment: $1,488 (full-time, 2024 rate)
• 45 months of benefits

University of North Dakota (UND)

Location: Grand Forks, ND Website: und.edu Veterans Enrollment: 500+ student veterans

GI Bill Benefits:

• Yellow Ribbon Program: Unlimited students, unrestricted maximum contribution per year
  • Covers 100% of tuition and fees for Post-9/11 GI Bill recipients at 100% eligibility
  • UND pays 50% of out-of-state tuition above the in-state rate; VA pays the other 50%
• In-state tuition for all veterans: Active duty military, veterans, and dependents using VA education benefits receive North Dakota resident tuition rates regardless of residency
• Active Duty Military Rate: $250 per credit for undergraduate students using Federal Tuition Assistance (TA)

Popular Programs for Veterans:

• Aviation (UND has one of the largest flight schools in America)
• Engineering (aerospace, chemical, electrical, mechanical)
• Business (management, accounting, entrepreneurship)
• Nursing
• Criminal justice
• Computer science

Veteran Services:

• Veteran & Military Services Office: 701-777-3363 | vets@UND.edu
• Dedicated veterans lounge
• Student Veterans Association chapter
• Priority registration for veterans
• Military-friendly campus culture

Application Process:

1. Apply for admission: und.edu/admissions
2. Submit DD Form 214 to UND Registrar
3. Apply for VA benefits (if using GI Bill)
4. Opt in each semester to use VA benefits (certification required each term)

Cost Example (2024-2025):

• In-state tuition: $9,095/year (full-time undergraduate)
• Out-of-state tuition: $14,208/year (waived with GI Bill + Yellow Ribbon)
• Room & board: $9,500/year
• Books: $1,000/year
• Total cost with Post-9/11 GI Bill + Yellow Ribbon: $0 tuition, plus BAH ($1,200-$1,400/month) covers housing

North Dakota State University (NDSU)

Location: Fargo, ND Website: ndsu.edu Veterans Enrollment: 400+ student veterans

GI Bill Benefits:

• Yellow Ribbon Program: Unlimited students, unrestricted maximum contribution per year
  • Covers 100% of tuition for Post-9/11 GI Bill recipients
• In-state tuition for all veterans and dependents
• Retention rate: 89% for full-time students using military benefits (67% for part-time)

Popular Programs for Veterans:

• Agriculture (NDSU is a land-grant institution with top ag programs)
• Engineering (civil, mechanical, electrical, construction management)
• Business
• Computer science
• Nursing
• Criminal justice

Veteran Services:

• Veterans Services Office: ndsu.edu/veterans | 701-231-7206
• Student Veterans Association
• Dedicated study spaces for veterans
• Yellow Ribbon information: ndsu.edu/veterans/yellowribbon

Cost Example (2024-2025):

• In-state tuition: $9,640/year (full-time undergraduate)
• Out-of-state tuition: $14,950/year (waived with GI Bill + Yellow Ribbon)
• Total cost with Post-9/11 GI Bill: $0 tuition + BAH ($1,400/month in Fargo)

North Dakota University System Benefits

All 11 public universities in North Dakota participate in Yellow Ribbon or offer in-state tuition to veterans:

• Bismarck State College (two-year, technical programs)
• Dakota College at Bottineau
• Dickinson State University
• Lake Region State College
• Mayville State University
• Minot State University
• ND State College of Science (Wahpeton)
• University of Jamestown (private, Yellow Ribbon: $4,000/year)
• University of Mary (private, Bismarck, Yellow Ribbon: $4,000/year)
• Valley City State University

North Dakota National Guard Tuition Benefits

ND National Guard Tuition Waiver & Grant:

• Eligibility: Members in good standing of the ND National Guard
• Benefit: 25% tuition waiver + 75% tuition grant (100% total coverage)
• Applies to: Certificate courses, undergraduate, graduate degrees
• Limit: 144 semester credits or 208 quarter credits (lifetime total)
• Institutions: All North Dakota public universities and colleges

How it Works:

• NDNG members pay $0 tuition at state schools while serving in the Guard
• Can be combined with federal GI Bill benefits (though typically not necessary)
• Contact NDNG Education Services: (701) 333-2000

Veterans' Dependents Tuition Waiver

Eligibility:

• Dependent of North Dakota veteran who was:
  • Killed in action
  • Died from service-connected causes
  • Has 100% service-connected disability
  • Has individual unemployability (TDIU) rating from VA
• Applies to: Spouses, surviving spouses, children, stepchildren

Benefit:

• Tuition and fees waived for up to 45 months
• Applies to: All North Dakota University System institutions
• This is in addition to federal benefits (can stack with Chapter 35 DEA)

Example: Child of 100% disabled veteran:

• Federal Chapter 35 DEA: $1,488/month (45 months)
• ND Tuition Waiver: $9,000/year tuition + fees waived
• Total benefit: $67,000+ over 4 years

Apply: Contact university financial aid office or ND Department of Veterans Affairs

Vocational & Technical Training

North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) - Wahpeton

• Two-year technical degrees
• Programs: welding, diesel technology, HVAC, electrical, precision agriculture, cybersecurity
• GI Bill approved
• High job placement rates (90%+)

Bismarck State College

• Two-year programs in energy, construction, automotive, nursing, business
• GI Bill approved
• Close to state government jobs in Bismarck

Apprenticeships:

• North Dakota accepts GI Bill for apprenticeships in construction trades, electrician, plumber, HVAC
• Bakken oil fields hire apprentices for oilfield services
• Contact Job Service North Dakota: jobsnd.com

How to Use GI Bill in North Dakota

Step 1: Apply for VA Education Benefits

• Online: va.gov/education/apply-for-education-benefits
• Or call 1-888-GIBILL-1 (442-4551)

Step 2: Choose School & Get Accepted

• Apply for admission to UND, NDSU, or other ND institution
• All ND public universities are GI Bill approved

Step 3: Submit VA Certification Request Each Semester

• Contact university Veterans Services Office
• Provide enrollment information (courses, credit hours)
• University certifies your enrollment to VA

Step 4: Receive BAH & Tuition Payments

• VA pays tuition directly to school
• BAH deposited monthly to your bank account (paid at end of month)

Contact:

• ND State Approving Agency (SAA): Approves GI Bill programs in ND
• Website: veterans.nd.gov/about/education-saa
• Phone: (701) 333-4321

Employment Opportunities

Veteran Unemployment & Labor Market

Veteran Unemployment Rate (North Dakota):

• Estimated: 2.3% (among the lowest in the nation)
• General ND unemployment: 2.4% (one of the lowest state rates nationally)
• North Dakota has one of the strongest job markets in America

Veteran Population:

• Approximately 50,000-60,000 veterans live in North Dakota
• Veteran workforce participation: High
• 26.6% of ND veterans have a disability (compared to 14% of non-veterans)

Veterans Preference:

• Wartime veterans receive preference for state, county, and municipal government jobs
• Private employers authorized to have veterans hiring preference

Military Bases & Federal Employment

Minot Air Force Base

• Location: 13 miles north of Minot, ND
• Mission: 5th Bomb Wing (B-52H bombers), 91st Missile Wing (ICBMs)
• Economic Impact: $651.6 million to local economy (FY2024)
• Personnel: 12,800+ (active duty, reserve, civilian employees, family members)
• Civilian Jobs: 1,200+ civilian employees (GS and Federal Wage employees, NAF positions)
• Major Employers: Civilian Personnel Office, Force Support Squadron, contracting, maintenance, security
• Apply: usajobs.gov (search "Minot AFB")
• Contact: Civilian Personnel: minotstaffing@us.af.mil | 5thforcesupport.com/civilian-personnel

Civilian Job Types at Minot:

• Administrative support (GS-5 to GS-11)
• IT specialists (GS-7 to GS-12)
• Aircraft maintenance technicians (Federal Wage System)
• Security forces (GS-6 to GS-9)
• Contracting specialists (GS-7 to GS-12)
• Human resources (GS-5 to GS-11)

Grand Forks Air Force Base

• Location: 15 miles west of Grand Forks, ND
• Mission: 319th Reconnaissance Wing (RQ-4 Global Hawk UAV operations)
• Personnel: 2,200+ Total Force Airmen
• Civilian Jobs: 600+ civilian employees
• Economic Impact: Supports regional economy with high-tech ISR mission
• Apply: usajobs.gov (search "Grand Forks AFB")
• Contact: 319th Force Support Squadron | grandforks319fss.com/jobs

Civilian Job Types at Grand Forks:

• UAV maintenance technicians
• Intelligence analysts
• IT and cybersecurity specialists
• Administrative support
• Contracting specialists
• Recreation and child development (NAF positions)

Veterans Hiring Preference:

• All federal jobs offer veterans preference (5-point or 10-point preference)
• 30%+ disabled veterans receive additional consideration
• Apply through usajobs.gov and claim veterans preference when creating profile

Oil & Gas Industry (Bakken Shale)

Overview: North Dakota's Bakken oil fields (northwest region: Williston, Dickinson, Watford City) offer high-paying jobs for veterans. The oil boom generated 75,000+ jobs in the past decade, with strong demand for hard workers.

Jobs for Veterans:

• Rig operators: $50,000-$75,000/year
• Roughnecks / Derrick hands: $50,000-$70,000/year
• Truck drivers (CDL): $60,000-$85,000/year
• Heavy equipment operators: $55,000-$80,000/year
• Welders: $60,000-$90,000/year
• Foremen / Superintendents: $100,000-$182,000/year
• Drilling consultants / Engineers: $150,000-$239,000/year
• Reservoir engineers: $120,000-$150,000/year

Average Annual Wage (Oil Field Workers): $112,462 (2012 data; current wages vary but remain high)

Hiring Veterans:

• Many employers seek candidates with manufacturing or military experience
• Discipline, teamwork, and physical fitness are highly valued
• Companies: Halliburton, Schlumberger, Baker Hughes, Continental Resources, Hess, Marathon Oil

Current Job Availability:

• 329 oil field jobs listed in North Dakota (as of search date)
• Hiring remains strong despite oil price fluctuations

Challenges:

• Long hours (12-14 hour shifts, 2 weeks on / 1 week off common)
• Physically demanding work
• Remote locations (Williston is isolated, 4 hours from Bismarck)
• Harsh winters (work continues year-round)
• Housing can be expensive or limited in boom periods

Apply:

• Job Service North Dakota: jobsnd.com
• Company websites (search "Bakken oil jobs" + company name)
• Energy Job Shop: energyjobshop.com

Agriculture

Overview: North Dakota is a major agricultural state (top producer of wheat, barley, sunflowers, canola, dry beans). Agriculture employs veterans in farming, ranching, equipment operation, agribusiness, and conservation.

Jobs for Veterans:

• Farm managers / Operators
• Agricultural equipment operators (tractors, combines)
• Grain elevator operators
• Livestock managers
• Precision agriculture technicians (GPS, drones)
• Ag sales and supply (seed, fertilizer, equipment dealers)
• Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) positions

Employers:

• NRCS North Dakota: Federal jobs in agriculture conservation
  • Website: nrcs.usda.gov/state-offices/north-dakota
  • Apply: usajobs.gov (search "NRCS North Dakota")
  • Veterans preference applies
• Private farms and ranches
• Ag cooperatives (CHS, AGP, NDSU Extension)
• John Deere, Case IH, AGCO dealerships

Resources:

• Job Service ND: jobsnd.com/agriculture
• ND Department of Agriculture: nd.gov/ndda

State & Local Government

Veterans Preference:

• Wartime veterans receive preference when applying for state, county, and municipal government jobs
• Applies to: State agencies, county jobs, city/town positions

Major Employers:

• State of North Dakota: nd.gov/careers
  • Departments: Transportation (DOT), Human Services, Veterans Affairs, Game & Fish, Corrections, Highway Patrol
  • Jobs: Highway maintenance, corrections officers, social workers, conservation officers, IT specialists
• Bismarck (state capital): Government jobs, healthcare (Sanford Health, CHI St. Alexius)
• Fargo: City government, Fargo Public Schools (largest school district), law enforcement
• Grand Forks: City jobs, Grand Forks Public Schools
• Minot: City jobs, Minot Public Schools, Minot State University

Law Enforcement:

• ND Highway Patrol: highwaypatrol.nd.gov
• Sheriff's departments (all 53 counties)
• Police departments (Fargo PD, Bismarck PD, Grand Forks PD, Minot PD)
• Veterans often favored for law enforcement due to discipline and training

Healthcare

Overview: North Dakota has a healthcare worker shortage, creating high demand for veterans with medical training.

Jobs for Medics/Corpsmen:

• Registered nurses (RN): $65,000-$85,000/year
• Licensed practical nurses (LPN): $45,000-$55,000/year
• Paramedics / EMTs: $40,000-$60,000/year
• Surgical technicians: $45,000-$60,000/year
• Radiology technicians: $55,000-$70,000/year
• Respiratory therapists: $55,000-$70,000/year

Major Healthcare Employers:

• Sanford Health (largest employer in ND): Bismarck, Fargo locations | sanfordhealth.org/careers
• Essentia Health: Fargo, Grand Forks | essentiahealth.org/careers
• CHI St. Alexius Health: Bismarck | primehealth.com
• Trinity Health: Minot | trinityhealth.org
• Altru Health System: Grand Forks | altru.org/careers
• VA Fargo Medical Center: va.gov/fargo-health-care (see above)

Credentialing:

• ND Board of Nursing: ndbon.org (RN/LPN licensure)
• ND EMT/Paramedic: health.nd.gov/ems
• Many military medical specialties transfer to civilian credentials with additional training/testing

Information Technology & Cybersecurity

Overview: Growing demand for IT professionals in Fargo, Grand Forks (UAS base), and Bismarck (state government).

Jobs:

• Cybersecurity analysts: $70,000-$95,000/year
• Software developers: $65,000-$90,000/year
• Network administrators: $60,000-$80,000/year
• Database administrators: $65,000-$85,000/year

Employers:

• Microsoft (Fargo campus): Employs 2,000+ in Fargo (largest tech employer)
• Grand Forks AFB: IT and cyber jobs supporting Global Hawk mission
• State of North Dakota IT Department (NDIT): nd.gov/itd
• Fargo tech startups: Growing tech scene

Resources:

• Emerging Prairie (Fargo tech community): emergingprairie.com

Skilled Trades

Overview: High demand for electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, welders, carpenters.

Jobs:

• Electricians: $55,000-$75,000/year
• Plumbers: $50,000-$70,000/year
• HVAC technicians: $50,000-$70,000/year
• Welders: $50,000-$80,000/year
• Carpenters: $45,000-$65,000/year

Apprenticeships:

• Electrician apprenticeships (4 years): IBEW Local 714 (Fargo)
• Plumber apprenticeships (5 years): UA Local 486 (Fargo)
• Apply: Job Service ND apprenticeship programs

Employers:

• Construction companies (Fargo, Bismarck, Minot, Williston)
• Oil field service companies (welders, pipefitters)
• Utility companies (Xcel Energy, MDU Resources)

Veteran Employment Resources

Job Service North Dakota

• Website: jobsnd.com/job-seeker/veterans
• Services:
  • SkillBridge program: Last 180 days of service, match civilian opportunities to military skills
  • Veterans' Employment Team Members: Help veterans overcome employment barriers, develop employment plans
  • Free job postings and candidate searches for employers
  • Resume assistance
  • Interview coaching
• Contact: 1-866-634-8387

ND Department of Veterans Affairs

• Website: veterans.nd.gov
• Phone: (701) 333-4321
• Services: Benefits counseling, employment referrals, connect veterans to resources

SkillBridge & Apprenticeships:

• SkillBridge allows active duty service members to train with civilian employers during last 180 days of service
• Participants remain on active duty (paid) while gaining civilian job experience
• Many ND employers participate (oil companies, healthcare, state government)

Hiring Our Heroes:

• Career fairs for veterans and military spouses
• Check nd.gov/veterans for upcoming events

ESGR (Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve):

• Bismarck office: (701) 333-2057
• Protects employment rights of Guard/Reserve members

Housing & Relocation

Housing Costs by City

Fargo:

• Median home price: $390,000 (2025)
• Rent (2BR): $1,126/month
• Cost of living: 3% below national average

Bismarck:

• Median home price: $341,000
• Rent (2BR): $1,063/month
• Cost of living: 9% below national average

Grand Forks:

• Median home price: $433,000 (higher due to limited inventory)
• Rent (2BR): $930-$1,247/month
• Cost of living: 8.6% below national average

Minot:

• Median home price: $365,600
• Rent (2BR): $1,113/month
• Cost of living: 11% below national average

Veterans Housing Assistance:

• VA Home Loans: 0% down, no PMI, competitive rates
• HUD-VASH vouchers: For homeless veterans (Section 8 housing)
• SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): Rental assistance, prevents homelessness
• Contact: Fargo VA Homeless Program | (701) 239-3700

Climate & Weather Considerations

Winters:

• Average January temperature: 5-17°F
• Record low: -60°F (February 1936)
• Snow: 40-50 inches annually
• Wind: Strong winds increase wind chill
• Blizzards: 3-4 severe winter storms per year

Summers:

• Average July temperature: 70-85°F
• Comfortable, low humidity

Warnings for Veterans:

• North Dakota winters are extremely harsh
• Veterans with arthritis, diabetes, or cold-sensitive conditions may struggle
• Remote areas can be isolated during blizzards
• Proper winter gear and vehicle preparation essential

Winter Survival Guide:

• Available from Minot AFB: 5thforcesupport.com (search "winter survival guide")

Resources

Healthcare:

• Fargo VA Medical Center: (701) 232-3241 | va.gov/fargo-health-care
• VA Enrollment: (701) 239-3700, ext. 93180
• Fargo Vet Center: (701) 237-0942
• Veterans Crisis Line: 988, then press 1

Education:

• UND Veterans Services: (701) 777-3363 | vets@UND.edu | und.edu/student-life/military
• NDSU Veterans Services: (701) 231-7206 | ndsu.edu/veterans
• ND State Approving Agency: (701) 333-4321 | veterans.nd.gov/about/education-saa
• VA GI Bill: 1-888-GIBILL-1 (442-4551) | va.gov/education

Employment:

• Job Service North Dakota: (866) 634-8387 | jobsnd.com/job-seeker/veterans
• ND Department of Veterans Affairs: (701) 333-4321 | veterans.nd.gov
• USAJobs (federal): usajobs.gov
• Minot AFB Jobs: 5thforcesupport.com/civilian-personnel
• Grand Forks AFB Jobs: grandforks319fss.com/jobs

Veteran Service Organizations:

• VFW Posts: vfwnd.org
• American Legion: ndlegion.org
• DAV: dav.org (search North Dakota chapters)

State Government:

• ND Department of Veterans Affairs: (701) 333-4321 | veterans.nd.gov | ndva@nd.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How far is the nearest VA clinic from my home?

A: North Dakota has 10 VA clinics covering all major cities. Most veterans are within 60-90 minutes of a clinic. Use va.gov/find-locations to find the nearest facility.

Q: Can I use my GI Bill at any North Dakota college?

A: Yes. All 11 public universities and several private colleges (University of Mary, Jamestown) are GI Bill approved. UND and NDSU offer unlimited Yellow Ribbon slots.

Q: Do veterans get in-state tuition at North Dakota universities?

A: Yes. All veterans, active duty military, and their dependents receive in-state tuition rates at North Dakota public universities, regardless of residency.

Q: What's the job market like for veterans in North Dakota?

A: Excellent. Veteran unemployment is ~2.3% (among the lowest nationally). Strong demand in oil/gas, agriculture, federal jobs (Minot AFB, Grand Forks AFB), healthcare, and skilled trades.

Q: Do military bases hire veterans?

A: Yes. Minot AFB and Grand Forks AFB employ 1,800+ civilians combined. Veterans receive hiring preference for federal jobs. Apply at usajobs.gov.

Q: How much do oil field jobs pay?

A: $50,000-$112,000+ annually depending on position. Entry-level rig workers average $66,000/year. Engineers and consultants earn $150,000-$239,000.

Q: Can I use VA healthcare if I live in a rural area?

A: Yes. North Dakota has 10 VA clinics statewide, plus free transport vans to Fargo VA Medical Center. Community Care (Mission Act) allows treatment at private providers if you're 40+ miles from VA facility.

Q: Does North Dakota have a Veterans Home?

A: Yes. The North Dakota Veterans Home in Lisbon has 150 beds (skilled nursing and basic care). Eligibility: Honorably discharged veterans and spouses. Contact: ndvh.nd.gov

Q: Are there mental health services for veterans?

A: Yes. Fargo Vet Center (701-237-0942) provides confidential counseling for PTSD, MST, readjustment. Fargo VA Medical Center has full mental health services. Veterans Crisis Line: 988, then press 1.

Q: Can my spouse use my GI Bill?

A: Yes, if you transfer Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits while on active duty. Dependents of 100% disabled or KIA veterans also qualify for ND Dependents Tuition Waiver (45 months free tuition).

Q: What's the winter really like?

A: Brutal. January averages 5-17°F, with record lows of -60°F. Snow, wind, and blizzards are common. Proper preparation is essential. Not recommended for cold-sensitive individuals.

Q: Can I get help finding a job?

A: Yes. Job Service North Dakota (jobsnd.com) has Veterans' Employment Team Members who help with resumes, job searches, and SkillBridge programs. Call (866) 634-8387.

Q: Do I need a car to live in North Dakota?

A: Yes, for most areas. Public transportation is limited outside Fargo. Rural areas require personal vehicle. Winters demand reliable, winter-capable vehicle.

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Last updated: 2025. Programs and benefits change frequently. Verify current information with respective agencies.