I'm currently using the GI Bill at my current school, but I'm considering transferring to another college. Does anyone know if it's possible to transfer the GI Bill benefits, and if so, how the process works?
Yes, you can transfer the GI Bill benefits from one school to another. Whether you're transferring midway through the school year or taking a break before starting at a new institution, the process starts by applying to the Veterans Affairs (VA) to change your school or program.
Here are the necessary steps:
1. Apply to your chosen new college and get accepted.
2. Update your school or program with the VA. You would need to complete VA Form 22-1995 (Request for Change of Program or Place of Training), which you can find on the VA official website. This form indicates that you are changing your institution and you want your GI Bill benefits transferred there. It is important to fill out this form accurately to ensure smooth processing.
3. Provide the VA with new direct deposit information, if it is needed.
4. Your new school will need certification from the School Certifying Official (SCO) that you're a student. This will trigger the VA to start sending your GI Bill payments to the new school.
While the GI Bill is transferable from one institution to another, it’s very important to remember that every school may not participate in the program or may not support the same benefits. Also, the length of your benefits may not be the same at a new school, as it often depends on the cost of tuition and other expenses at the new institution.
Therefore, before making a transfer decision, be sure to inquire about the compatibility of your specific GI Bill benefits with the programs at the new institution. Inquire with the financial aid office or the veterans' affairs office at the new college - they usually have a School Certifying Official who can guide you in this process.
And, last but not least, always ensure in advance that your new program and version of the GI Bill benefits are compatible.
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