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BenefitU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

VA education benefits (GI Bill)

If you served, the GI Bill and related VA education programs are among the most valuable education benefits in the country. Apply on VA.gov. Not need-based.

Typical award

Tuition, housing stipend, and books — amounts vary by chapter

Time to apply

30–45 min

Ease

Straightforward

Why this is (relatively) easy

Online VA form. If your service qualifies, the benefit is yours.

Who usually qualifies

  • Veterans, some service members, and certain dependents
  • Eligibility depends on service dates and chapter (33, 35, 31, etc.)

What to have ready

  • Service history
  • School enrollment plans

Steps

  1. 1

    Apply for education benefits on VA.gov.

  2. 2

    Send the Certificate of Eligibility to your school's VA certifying official.

Deadline: Apply before your term starts. Official program page

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