GI Bill

Education Benefits for Veterans

If you’re a U.S. military veteran, you may be eligible for extensive education and training benefits that can shape your future.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the main provider of veteran education benefits—these include:
 
The Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty
Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve
Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship
The Yellow Ribbon Program

Understanding the differences between the VA’s various GI Bills is key to choosing the right benefit and making the most of these opportunities. Here are a few tips:

  • The Post-9/11 GI Bill is usually best if you want full tuition coverage and housing allowance.
  • The Montgomery GI Bill may be better if you prefer monthly cash payments and flexibility for non-traditional programs.
  • Some veterans qualify for both programs and can extend benefits up to 48 months by using them sequentially.

A lot depends on what school and type of education you’d like to pursue. The VA website has an excellent comparison tool to help you sort through how GI Bill benefits can support your education.

The U.S. Department of Education provides comprehensive information about veteran education benefits, including the Veterans Upward Bound program, and many nonprofit organizations also offer money for college to veterans or their family members.

How to Apply for VA Benefits

After you’ve determined your eligibility for VA education benefits and gathered the proper documents, you can begin your application process through the VA website.

You can also mail a paper application to your regional processing center (call 888-442-4551 to have an application sent to you), or apply in person at your nearest VA regional office.

GED

Scholarships

FAFSA

Educational Resources

GI Bill

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