Practical support helps veterans transition to civilian life and build rewarding careers. Thankfully, many programs promise exactly that. Known collectively as the “GI Bill,” these programs make it easier to pursue targeted training to complement the skills you’ve already developed as a service member. This could make it easier to find work as a civilian while offering the intrinsic rewards of continuous learning.
While you may be aware of the GI Bill and recognize its critical role in shaping countless veterans’ lives, it’s another thing to put GI Bill college benefits into action. There are many eligibility standards to clear and many other hurdles to navigate as you determine, what can I use my GI Bill for college, and how does the GI Bill work for college?
If you’re feeling confused, you are certainly not alone. We’re here to help. Below, we will provide a thorough breakdown of GI Bill education benefits, so you can fully understand: what does the GI Bill cover for college?
The Value of the GI Bill for Veterans & Active Duty Military
The GI Bill felt truly groundbreaking when it was first passed in 1944. Originally known as the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act, this represented a bipartisan effort meant to help veterans of World War II adjust to the civilian workforce. While the original GI Bill has long since expired, this term remains relevant, continuing to describe a myriad of programs designed to support today’s veterans.
Understanding GI Bill Benefits: What You Need to Know
The GI Bill offers the opportunity to get an education without worrying about how you will pay for your classes or related housing expenses. GI Bill benefits and eligibility standards can vary, but if you’ve served active duty, chances are, you will qualify for at least some educational benefits.
What Is the GI Bill?
The GI Bill allows qualifying veterans and their family members to cover the cost of a college education and many other forms of postsecondary training. Although it originated with legislation targeted at World War II veterans, it has evolved to encompass many educational benefits provided through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Types of GI Bills Available
Although we use the term ‘GI Bill’ to reference educational benefits targeted at veterans, several programs accommodate veterans. These may differ depending on when eligible veterans served and in what capacity.
It is important to clarify which types of GI Bill benefits correspond with your experience and your current situation, as this will help answer the question, “How do I use my GI Bill benefits?”
Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides educational benefits to those who have served active duty either on or after September 11th, 2001. This is sometimes referred to as ‘Chapter 33’ because it was originally codified in Title 38 of the United States Code (U.S.C.), Chapter 33.
This version of the GI Bill offers robust educational coverage, including full tuition coverage for many programs, generous housing allowances, and even educational opportunities for qualifying veterans’ family members.
Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB-AD and MGIB-SR)
The Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) offers another pathway to covering the cost of a college education. This consists of two separate programs, including the Active Duty (AD or Chapter 30) and Selected Reserve (SR or Chapter 1606), designed to accommodate different types of service members. MGIB is generally known for being available to those who served before 9/11.
These days, most veterans qualify for benefits via the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which was originally intended to function as a replacement for the Montgomery GI Bill. Compared to the MGIB, the Post-9/11 GI Bill promises broader coverage.
Another distinguishing factor? The MGIB involves an enrollment fee, which must be paid in order to activate benefits. Despite this added fee, the MGIB may be worth exploring, as it could offer a more flexible approach, including the potential for lump sum payments.
Yellow Ribbon Program
Designed to help students cover tuition for private schools, out-of-state attendance, or graduate degrees, the Yellow Ribbon Program offers supplemental funding but works alongside the Post-9/11 GI Bill. This involves partnerships between private colleges and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), ensuring that if private colleges cover a portion of veterans’ college expenses, the government will do the same. The goal is to help veterans avoid paying out-of-pocket expenses when attending private colleges.
Who Is Eligible for GI Bill Benefits?
GI Bill eligibility can be complicated because so many different programs are involved and because even within a single program, eligibility and benefits may differ based on the amount of time served and other complex factors. Eligibility extends beyond the student or veteran-specific factors to involve college selection, with benefits only available for GI Bill-approved schools.
Those who have served on active duty for at least 36 months should be eligible for 100% of Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. Full eligibility is also extended to post-9/11 Purple Heart recipients and those discharged (after 30 continuous days on active duty) in response to service-connected disabilities. Many veterans do not qualify for full benefits but can secure partial benefits based on eligibility tiers — the amount of time served on active duty.
With the MGIB, eligibility depends on whether the previous service involved active duty or the National Guard. The VA outlines multiple categories related to MGIB eligibility, establishing strict standards based on when veterans served and whether they did so continuously.
What Can You Use Your GI Bill For?
Qualifying for GI benefits may seem like the first big hurdle, but determining how and where to use these benefits can be just as complicated. The good news? GI benefits are more versatile than many veterans realize, offering support for several types of post-secondary training. Examples include:
Traditional College Degrees
One of the most common uses of the GI Bill is to support a traditional college education, such as an undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited college or university. This is a great option because it helps veterans develop a wide range of technical and soft skills, including transferable skills that can be used to achieve career advancement in many sectors. A traditional college degree can also deliver a unique sense of accomplishment, boosting self-confidence while encouraging veterans to pursue meaningful educational and career goals.
Vocational & Technical Training
Following years of training in the military, many veterans possess a strong technical skill set that can prove valuable in many areas of the civilian workforce. While many degree programs offer the chance to expand on these skills, some veterans may be primarily interested in vocational programs (referred to by the VA as non-college degree programs). Many programs qualify, with the VA citing examples such as HVAC repair programs or cosmetology schools.
Certifications & Licensing
The GI Bill can be used to cover many certification exams or prep courses. This includes up to $2,000 per test as long as these tests are approved for the GI Bill. The Web Enabled Approval Management System (WEAMS) provides a search function to help determine which tests qualify for GI Bill coverage.
On-the-Job Training & Apprenticeships
Many veterans feel drawn to hands-on training opportunities, which can provide an easier transition into the civilian workforce by introducing veterans to routines and practices that might otherwise be difficult to understand. These on-the-job programs can often be covered via GI Bill benefits. Under these arrangements, paid training involves a salary covered by the employer and a stipend from the VA.
Flight Training
The GI Bill often covers a portion of the cost of flight training, although, to qualify, veterans must possess their private pilot’s license along with first or second-class medical certificates. Keep in mind that these flight training benefits are not available through Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance.
Using the GI Bill for Online Classes
Many veterans find online coursework appealing. This can be a great way to accommodate busy schedules while addressing mobility issues and other common concerns. The good news? Navigating the GI Bill and online classes can be surprisingly straightforward, and in many situations, tuition is fully covered even if all classes are taken online.
Does the GI Bill Cover Online College Programs?
Technically, the GI Bill covers online courses (typically referred to as independent and distance learning), but monthly housing allowances may be limited. A lot depends on whether veterans take classes exclusively online or opt for a hybrid format. If learning entirely online and using Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, the VA offers a “housing allowance based on 50% of the national average.”
Advantages of Online Learning for Military Members
Even if MHA coverage is limited, there is value in using the GI Bill for online classes, as this promotes greater flexibility and makes it easier for veterans to take advantage of exciting job opportunities. This can fuel accelerated career advancement. Another advantage? Students who balance work and college often find unique ways to promptly apply recently covered concepts as they navigate real-world professional environments.
GI Bill & Online Learning at Baker College
Offering a wide range of degree programs fully online, Baker College supports diverse students (including veterans) in their efforts to achieve balance in their educational and professional pursuits. Online courses can promote significant savings by limiting the need for commuting and other expenses, and with Baker, both online and in-person formats promise a cost-effective student experience.
How Much Does the GI Bill Pay for College?
GI Bill coverage can vary considerably from one veteran to the next, depending on everything from the amount of time served to distinctions such as Purple Hearts. Current concerns may also influence this. For example, those studying online may see different coverage compared to those attending classes on campus.
Tuition and Fees Coverage
When leveraging the GI Bill, many veterans focus on covering the cost of tuition and fees. This makes it possible to attend classes without paying out of pocket. Rates depend on the type of college attended and whether it qualifies as in-state.
For public, in-state colleges, the VA covers tuition and fees. Some students may get in-state tuition even if they don’t live in that state.
For private colleges and non-college training programs (such as vocational schools), the VA currently covers up to $28,937.09 in tuition and fees. Flight training coverage looks a bit different, with the VA covering up to $16,535.46.
Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA)
Tuition is only the beginning. When housing comes into play, it can be difficult to clarify: how much does the GI Bill pay for college? The VA expands on tuition coverage by offering a Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA), which is calculated based on the Department of Defense’s Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). These rates can vary considerably as they are tied to local housing markets.
10 Common Questions About the GI Bill
1. How Long Do GI Bill Benefits Last?
GI Bill benefits cover up to 36 months of full-time college education. Those discharged before 2013 should expect to use these benefits within fifteen years of leaving active-duty service. MGIB benefits, however, typically last for ten years.
2. Does the GI Bill Cover College Application Fees?
The GI Bill does not account for the process of getting accepted to (or enrolled in) a desired college program. Be prepared to cover the cost of admission tests (such as the SAT or the ACT) and application fees.
3. Can I Receive Financial Aid While Using the GI Bill?
The GI Bill represents just one of many forms of assistance available to veterans attending college. Be sure to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to verify whether additional opportunities for financial aid are available.
4. Can I Use the GI Bill to Take Individual Classes Instead of a Full Degree Program?
While the typical approach to leveraging GI Bill benefits involves a targeted degree program, these benefits can also be used to cover individual classes. The caveat is that these courses must be part of an approved college program. This option may prove most relevant to veterans who need to take prerequisites to qualify for desired degree programs.
5. Can I Use the GI Bill for Multiple Degrees?
While GI Bill education benefits are typically limited to 36 months, there are no restrictions on how many degrees can be pursued during that time. Depending on benefit availability and unique educational or professional goals, it might be worthwhile to use these benefits to pursue multiple degrees.
6. Can the GI Bill Be Used for a Master’s Degree?
GI Bill college benefits can be applied to degree programs at all levels, including undergraduate and graduate degrees.
7. What Happens If I Run Out of GI Bill Benefits Before Graduating?
Careful planning can help make the most of GI Bill benefits and avoid paying for college out of pocket. Financial aid (such as grants or scholarships) may cover the remaining costs if these benefits run out before graduation. Consider exploring alternative VA options, such as the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, which offers additional support for those with service-related disabilities.
8. Do I Have to Pay Back the GI Bill?
GI Bill benefits do not qualify as loans, so, in most situations, there is no need to repay them. In some situations, withdrawing from classes or degree programs may result in required repayments. Keep in mind that if mitigating circumstances prompt an early withdrawal, it may be possible to avoid repayments. Be prepared to submit an explanation of these mitigating circumstances.
9. Can I Work While Using the GI Bill?
Many veterans work part-time while using the GI Bill to cover educational expenses. In fact, the VA offers a work-study program, providing exciting opportunities to support fellow veterans by working at VA offices, healthcare facilities, and Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs). The only situation in which work might compromise benefits? If it becomes necessary to pursue part-time or online education to accommodate professional obligations, this might reduce housing allowances or other benefits.
10. Can I Use the GI Bill While on Active Duty?
GI Bill benefits are available to those on active duty, although, while serving active duty, benefits cover tuition but not the Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA). Maximizing GI Bill college benefits may be easier after serving active duty, especially if MHA benefits are a priority.
Learn More About Using Your GI Bill Benefits at Baker College
As a proud veteran, you have the chance to continue expanding your skill set as you prepare for a bright future in the civilian workforce. Look to Baker College for support every step of the way.
Having proudly signed the Department of Defense Memorandum of Understanding (DoD MOU), Baker College has demonstrated a clear commitment to supporting service members and veterans by offering access to continued education opportunities.
Ready to get started? Get in touch today to learn more about active-duty and veteran admissions and discover how Baker College can help you make a seamless transition from the military to college life.