GI Bill tuition entitlements come in all sizes and for numerous purposes. While most may think GI Bill benefits only apply to attending education classes at institutes of higher learning, i.e., colleges and universities, they apply to a lot more.
GI Bill education benefits have continually changed since first enacted in 1944. The current program, dubbed the ‘Post 9 11 GI Bill’, applies to those in active military service on or after September 11, 2001. Here are the main benefits of this particular program:
POST 9/11 BILL
- Paid tuition and fees, not to exceed the amount of the most expensive PUBLIC college or university in the state where you’re attending
- Covers under-graduate as well as graduate degrees
- Covers vocational/technical college training
- Provides housing benefits factored on the amount received by an E-5 (buck sergeant), with dependents, living in the area of the school you’re attending
- Pays up to $1000 per year toward the purchase of books and supplies for school
There are a few other benefits, but these are the main ones. If you’re on active duty military service you can still take advantage of your GI Bill benefits, although you won’t be eligible for the housing allowance since Uncle Sam is already paying you that through your service affiliation. You also won’t qualify for the $1000 books and supplies benefit. Online college or university classes are perfectly acceptable but those choosing this form of study also don’t qualify for the housing allowance. In order for a school to qualify for GI Bill funding (Post 9/11) it must be an accredited institute of higher learning. There’s a list.
CHAPTER 31
The Montgomery GI Bill (or Montgomery Bill) Chapter 31 is a vocational rehabilitation program. It applies to eligible service members and those with service-related disabilities. It’s designed to provide skills that can be applied to obtaining suitable employment. Benefits include:
- Vocational and personal adjustment counseling
- A monthly subsistence allowance while training
- Training assistance
- Employment assistance following training completion
CHAPTER 32
The Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP) is for those who entered military service between 1/1/77
and 6/30/85. Those who elected to voluntarily contribute to this program were matched with $2 for every $1 put in. This program can be used for either degree or certificate programs, apprenticeships, on the job training, flight training and correspondence courses.
GI Bill tuition benefits are typically paid for up to 36 months. They also will normally expire if not used within 15 years of separation from the military. Those who earned the benefits should seriously consider utilizing them. It’s a good deal.