Veterans who have served in the U.S. armed forces are eligible for a range of educational benefits, including VA education programs. These programs, administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), are designed to help veterans acquire new job skills or advance their careers through education and training.
VA education programs offer a variety of benefits, including funding for tuition, fees, and even housing costs, depending on the program. They also provide support for survivors and dependents of veterans. These programs aim to turn veterans' G.I. Bill benefits into degrees, certificates, or skills that can help them succeed in the civilian job market.
Post-9/11 GI Bill
The Post-9/11 GI Bill is one of the most comprehensive VA education programs, providing up to 36 months of education benefits. It covers tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance, and an annual stipend for books and supplies.
One key benefit of the Post-9/11 GI Bill is its transferability. Eligible service members can transfer unused benefits to their spouse or dependent children, providing them with educational funding as well.
How to Apply for the Post-9/11 GI Bill
To apply, veterans must complete the VA Form 22-1990, Application for Education Benefits, and submit it to their regional VA office or online through the VA's eBenefits portal.
Veterans must also be enrolled in an approved VA education program and provide a copy of their Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to their school's VA certifying official.
Eligibility for the Post-9/11 GI Bill
To be eligible, veterans must have served at least 90 aggregate days on active duty after September 10, 2001, or have been discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. They must also not have been dishonorably discharged.
Eligibility is tiered based on the length of service after September 10, 2001, with veterans eligible for up to 100% of benefits after 36 months of service.
Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) Programs
The MGIB programs offer education benefits for active duty, selected reserve, and veteran service members. They provide up to 36 months of education benefits, which can be used for college, technical, or vocational training.
The MGIB includes two programs—MGIB-Active Duty (Chapter 30) and MGIB-Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)—each with its own eligibility requirements and benefits.
MGIB-Active Duty (Chapter 30)
MGIB-Active Duty is available to active duty service members who have agreed to serve an additional three years in return for benefits. It provides up to $2,122 per month for full-time training, with a maximum benefit of $66,424.
Veterans can apply online through the VA's eBenefits portal or contact their regional VA office for assistance.
MGIB-Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)
MGIB-Selected Reserve is available to members of the Selected Reserve, including the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, and Coast Guard Reserve. It provides up to $443 per month for full-time training, with a maximum benefit of $14,786.
Veterans can apply online through the VA's eBenefits portal or contact their regional VA office for assistance.
Transitioning from military life to civilian education can be challenging, but VA education programs provide invaluable support to help veterans achieve their educational goals. Whether you're seeking an undergraduate degree, a graduate program, or vocational training, VA education programs have something to offer you. Don't miss out on these opportunities—research your eligibility and start your educational journey today.