Hey, I was wondering if the military covers private college tuition? I've heard about the GI Bill but not sure if it applies to private colleges. Anyone here have any insight?
Yes, the Post-9/11 GI Bill can be used to cover tuition and fees at private colleges. It works a bit differently than it would for public schools, however. The Department of Veterans Affairs sets an annual maximum amount it will cover for private and foreign schools. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the maximum is $27,120.05.
If the school you want to attend costs more than that, you could look into the Yellow Ribbon Program. Eligible schools voluntarily participate in this program where they agree to contribute a certain amount to cover costs not met by the GI Bill, and the VA matches their contribution. That can result in a significant reduction of your out-of-pocket expenses.
Remember that the GI Bill can also provide a monthly housing allowance and a stipend for books and supplies, within certain limits, to help manage the total costs of attending college.
Please note that the exact amounts and benefits can change each year and the calculation is also subject to other factors like your service-related eligibility, so it’s always a good idea to consult directly with the VA or your school’s veterans affairs office for personalized advice.
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