Guide to G.I. Bill Education Benefits

G.I. Bill® benefits have long been a cornerstone in helping military personnel and veterans achieve their educational goals. These federal benefits, available through programs like the Montgomery G.I. Bill and the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, offer substantial support to service members, veterans, and their families. Whether you’re looking to pay for college or other educational programs, understanding the various G.I. Bill programs is crucial to maximizing your benefits.

Explanation of the Montgomery G.I. Bill and Post-9/11 G.I. Bill

The G.I. Bill has evolved significantly since its inception in 1944. The Montgomery G.I. Bill (MGIB) and the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill are two of the most prominent programs that provide educational benefits to eligible service members and veterans.

Types of Training Available

The G.I. Bill Education Benefits can be used for a variety of training programs, including:

• College degrees (Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate)
• Vocational and technical training
• Flight training
• Apprenticeship and on-the-job training
• Licensing and certification tests
• National testing programs
• Correspondence courses
• Entrepreneurship training
• Tutorial assistance

These diverse options ensure that military-affiliated individuals have the flexibility to pursue their educational and career goals in a way that best suits their needs.

What Does This Mean for Tuition Assistance and Eligibility?

The Montgomery G.I. Bill and the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill offer different levels of tuition assistance and eligibility requirements. Understanding these differences is key to selecting the program that best fits your circumstances.

Eligibility for Educational Benefits

Post-9/11 G.I. Bill

The Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, established in 2008, provides educational benefits to service members who have served on active duty for 90 or more days since September 10, 2001. This program is particularly beneficial for those who served on or after that date, offering:

• Full tuition coverage for public universities
• Tuition assistance for private and foreign schools (with certain restrictions)
• Monthly housing allowance
• Annual stipend for books and supplies

Eligibility is based on your length of service:

• 100% coverage for those who served 36 months or more
• Reduced coverage for those who served between 90 days and 36 months

Notably, the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill allows for the transfer of benefits to family members, which can be a significant advantage for service members with dependents. Additionally, the Yellow Ribbon Program can provide extra financial assistance for students interested in graduate programs.

Montgomery G.I. Bill

The Montgomery G.I. Bill (MGIB) includes two main programs: MGIB-Active Duty (MGIB-AD) and MGIB-Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR).

• MGIB-AD: This program is for active duty service members who have completed at least two years of continuous service. Participants must contribute $100 per month for the first 12 months of service. Benefits can total up to $72,000 over 36 months, providing substantial support for tuition and educational expenses.
• MGIB-SR: This program is available to members of the National Guard and Selected Reserve. Eligible participants can receive up to $11,000 over 36 months, which can be used for a variety of educational pursuits.

Both programs offer flexibility in how benefits are applied, allowing service members to use them for traditional college courses, vocational training, or even certain certifications and tests.

Federal Military Tuition Assistance

To further assist military-affiliated individuals, the federal government categorizes education benefits under different “chapters” of the G.I. Bill, each with specific eligibility criteria and benefits.

Chapter 30 (Montgomery G.I. Bill)

Chapter 30 is the foundation of the Montgomery G.I. Bill. Service members with at least two years of active duty can qualify for up to 36 months of education benefits, which vary based on the type of training pursued.

Chapter 31 (Veteran Readiness & Employment)

This program assists veterans with service-connected disabilities. It helps them prepare for, obtain, and maintain suitable employment or achieve independence in daily living. Although it focuses on employment, some benefits can be used for education.

Chapter 32 (Veterans Education Assistance Program)

Chapter 32 applies to veterans who served between January 1, 1977, and June 30, 1985. Contributions made during service are matched by the government at a 2-to-1 rate, providing financial assistance for education.

Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 G.I. Bill)

This chapter outlines the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, which offers comprehensive benefits to those who served after September 11, 2001. It includes tuition coverage, housing allowance, and book stipends, with eligibility based on active duty service.

Chapter 35 (Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance)

Chapter 35 provides up to 45 months of education benefits to dependents of veterans who are permanently disabled due to service or who have passed away as a result of service-connected conditions.

Chapter 1606 (Montgomery G.I. Bill – Selected Reserve)

This chapter offers educational benefits to members of the Selected Reserve and National Guard. Eligible participants can receive up to 36 months of benefits to cover tuition and other educational expenses.

How to Apply for and Use Your G.I. Bill Education Benefits

Applying for G.I. Bill Education Benefits can seem daunting, but the process is straightforward. Start by visiting the Veterans Affairs (VA) website to complete the application. You’ll need to provide information about your service history and the educational program you’re interested in.

Once your application is approved, the VA will work directly with the University of Cincinnati to ensure your tuition is covered. It’s also beneficial to contact UC’s Veterans Programs & Services office for additional support and guidance.

Let UC Online Help Accelerate Your Professional Journey

The University of Cincinnati Online offers military-affiliated students the resources and support needed to maximize their G.I. Bill Education Benefits. With over 2,000 military-affiliated students, UC Online provides flexible, high-quality programs designed to help you achieve your academic and career goals. We’re also a proud participant in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which can supplement additional costs beyond what your G.I. Bill benefits will pay for. Whether you’re interested in online degrees or certificates, we can help you navigate your educational journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are G.I. Bill Education Benefits?

G.I. Bill Education Benefits are federal benefits available to military personnel, veterans, and their families to cover tuition and other educational expenses.

How many years of tuition does the G.I. Bill cover?

The G.I. Bill typically covers up to 36 months of tuition, which can be spread over several years depending on the program.

Is the G.I. Bill enough to pay for college?

The G.I. Bill can cover a significant portion, if not all, of your college expenses, especially if you’re attending a public university or qualifying for the Yellow Ribbon Program at a private institution.

How long does the G.I. Bill last?

The benefits generally last for 15 years after your last period of active duty, but this limit is waived for those discharged after January 1, 2013.

Can I claim education expenses if I use the G.I. Bill?

Yes, the G.I. Bill covers most educational expenses, including tuition, housing, books, and supplies.

What happens if you drop out of college with the G.I. Bill?

If you drop out of college, you may have to repay the benefits received for that semester unless it’s due to mitigating circumstances.

How much money do you get a month from the G.I. Bill?

Monthly payments vary based on the program and your service time. Check the VA website for current education benefits rates.

Connect with one of our Enrollment Services Advisors or contact our Veterans Programs & Services Office for more information on how UC Online can help you utilize your G.I. Bill Education Benefits.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Website at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.