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If you or a family member has served in the military, you may be entitled to veteran benefits that help cover the cost of higher education. Unfortunately, navigating all the information about veteran education benefits can be confusing. That is why we have put together an easy-to-follow guide to some of the most extensive veteran education benefit programs, eligibility requirements, and tips for applying.

What Are Veteran Education Benefits?

Veteran education benefits are state, federal, or private programs to help current and past military members pay for school, career counseling, or similar services. With an estimated 18.2 million veterans living in the United States, many are eligible for assistance. These benefits can come in handy for veterans looking to diversify their training and find successful careers outside the military after completing their service. In some cases, benefits may even be used while military members are still on active duty.

Who Is Eligible for Veteran Education Benefits?

Eligibility for veteran education benefits can vary based on the specific program. Some programs, for example, are open only to active or past military members who have been honorably discharged. Others may be offered to disabled veterans or those who have retired from service. In some cases, education benefits may be extended to military family members, such as a veteran spouse wishing to attend college while their partner serves. Veteran-dependent education benefits also exist to help veterans’ children and other dependents pay for school.

In some cases, veterans must have a minimum number of active-duty service years to qualify. Likewise, the VA must approve specific programs and colleges to be eligible for benefits.

Types of Veteran Education Benefits

When most people think of veteran education benefits, they tend to think of programs that help veterans pay directly for college tuition. And while it is true that many tuition assistance programs exist for veterans, there are some other types of education benefits available for veterans and their families. These include education and career counseling and readiness and employment benefits. We have summarized the benefits below, but it is important to check the VA.gov website for the most up-to-date information. By exploring these, you can better understand which ones you may be eligible for and which are best for your needs.

Tuition Assistance

Many veterans’ education benefits come in the form of tuition assistance, where eligible recipients may have part or all of their tuition covered. You can read about some of the most common tuition assistance programs for veterans, along with their basic eligibility requirements, below.

Post 9/11 GI Bill

The Post 9/11 GI Bill was implemented in 2009 for military members and veterans who served for at least 90 days on active duty after September 10, 2001. These benefits cover 100% of tuition for any approved in-state college or institution. These full benefits are in place for up to 36 months and include a monthly living stipend and $1,000 towards books and supplies each year. Both active-duty military members and veterans can claim these benefits—but they must be used within 15 years of service.

You can still receive additional financial aid if you claim education benefits from the Post-9/11 GI Bill. You can also attend an out-of-state school using these benefits, though the program will only cover the cost of in-state tuition. As a result, you will be responsible for paying the difference.

Montgomery GI Bill

The Montgomery GI Bill consists of two different programs. One is for active-duty members, while the other is for those actively serving with a Selected Reserve drill unit.

With the Montgomery GI Bill for Active Duty, members must have two years of active-duty service to qualify. Likewise, members must pay a minimum of $1,200 into the program to collect benefits. With this program, military members can receive up to 36 months of payments to cover tuition, fees, and other expenses related to completing a college or university degree from an approved institution. This program can also cover the costs of vocational and trade school programs, certification exams, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training.

With the Montgomery GI Bill for Selected Reserve, members must have a six-year commitment and complete initial active-duty training with the Selected Reserve drill unit. This program’s payments max out at about $369 per month and can be used for tuition, fees, apprenticeships, on-the-job training, or similar costs.

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA)

If you are a dependent spouse or child of somebody who served in the military, you may be eligible for Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA). This program is available to dependents of service members who died in the line of duty, were MIA or captured in the line of duty, or who are receiving treatment for a disability related to their military service. These benefits can pay for tuition, housing, books, supplies, and other expenses associated with obtaining a higher education.

Education and Career Counseling

Educational and career counseling services are also available for those who are preparing to leave active service or have been recently discharged (within the past year). These can be useful for military members looking for help deciding which civilian or military job is right for them and which educational path may best suit their long-term goals.

This service is available to most military members who will be honorably leaving active duty within the next six months or have left within the past year.

Veterans Readiness and Employment

Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E) benefits are available to assist with job training, employment accommodations, resume building, and similar job-seeking services. This program also provides assistance for veterans looking to start their own businesses, as well as assistance for disabled veterans who are unable to work traditional jobs.

How to Apply for Veteran Education Benefits

The application process will depend on the veteran education benefits you seek, and it is very important to visit the VA website for the latest and most up-to-date information regarding Veterans’ Education Benefits. In most cases, you can apply for benefits online. However, you may need some documentation to complete your application. Typical information needed to apply for benefits includes your social security number, education and military history, bank account/direct deposit details, and information about the school/program you wish to attend.

Post University Veteran Benefits

At Post University, we are proud to offer benefits to active, reserve, and veteran members of the United States military and their families. Learn more about our military admissions process today and download our Military Service Member’s Guide to Earning a College Degree Online. You can also contact to request more information or get help with your application.

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