Law Granting Military Members Access to College

Heard about some law that allows military members easier access to college. Does anyone have details on this or know how to use it to my advantage? Trying to plan out my path post-military and could use all the help I can get!

Hello there! The law you've probably heard of is the Post-9/11 GI Bill. This is a form of financial aid for education and training provided to individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11, 2001, or to individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. This GI benefits package can cover full tuition and fees at public colleges for in-state students and up to nearly $28,937 per academic year for private or foreign schools.

To make the best use of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, it can help to:

1. Confirm Your Eligibility: Check your service records and ensure you meet the eligibility definition stated by the Veterans Affairs Department.

2. Apply for Benefits: You can apply for the Post-9/11 GI Bill through the Veterans Affairs website. Upon approval, you'll receive a 'Certificate of Eligibility' that you can then present to your chosen school's financial aid office.

3. Choose the Right Program: Consider your career interests, your academic standing, and the type of degree you want. Look into schools that offer programs that align with these.

4. Financial Planning: Because the GI Bill can cover so much of your tuition, it's essential to plan out additional finances for living expenses.

5. Research Schools: Look into colleges and assess their veteran services. Ensure that the school is "military-friendly" with resources dedicated to veterans.

6. Utilize Other Resources: In addition to the GI Bill, you might qualify for additional federal and state education benefits. For example, you might be eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program at colleges that participate in it if you wish to attend a private school or out-of-state public school.

7. Transfer Benefits: If you don't need all of your GI Bill benefits, you might consider transferring them to a dependent. There are specific requirements for this, so be sure to look into them.

Remember that the GI Bill is a significant benefit and can go a long way to helping you succeed in your education goals. Planning ahead and keeping informed will help you maximize these benefits. Best of luck in your academic journey!