GI Bill Education Benefits

The US Department of Veterans Affairs offers eligible students up to 36 months of educational assistance through the Montgomery GI Bill.  Education benefits are available for training of students under the following categories (chapters):

• Chapter 30 - Montgomery GI Bill - Active duty service person
• Chapter 31 - Vocational Rehabilitation
• Chapter 35  - Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program
• Chapter 1606 - Montgomery GI Bill - Selective Reserve
• Chapter 1607 - Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP)
• For a complete description of each chapter, go to the GI Bill website.


How does a student become eligible for VA Education Benefits?
The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) makes all determinations of eligibility for education benefits.  To receive your GI Bill education benefits, you need to start the process by completing the VA Application Form.  Students can apply online at GI Bill website. Applications should be completed 8-10 weeks prior to the term for which benefits are requested. Eligible persons are reminded that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs will not pay benefits for repeated or audited courses. In addition, benefits for short courses--those that do not meet for the entire term--will be paid for only the days that the class meets.

When will a student be certified?
Students that are eligible for Veterans educational benefits must contact the Registrar?s Office in order to receive them. Once students are registered for their courses for the term, their enrollment will be certified. Students may be certified up to 120 days prior to the start of the term. Certification means that Certifying Official will notify the VA of your enrollment. The actual time it takes for you to receive your benefits is dependent upon the VA.

Should a student apply for financial aid if they plan on receiving VA education benefits?
Yes, VA benefits may not be sufficient to cover all educational costs. VA students are paid benefits based on the number of approved credit hours they carry and not on the cost of the school they choose to attend.

How much will I be paid if I qualify for benefits?
Your monthly benefit will be based on the type of training you take, the length of your service, category, enrollment status, and if DOD put extra money in your MGIB Fund (called "kicker"). Students can be full-time, 3/4 time, 1/2 time or less than 1/2 time. Visit the Education Benefit Payment Rates page.