The VA pays monthly benefits to eligible
veterans, dependents, reservists, and service members while they are in
an approved training program such as college, on-the-job training, and
various kinds of technical training. Our major programs are:
- Montgomery GI Bill
Persons who first entered active duty after June 30, 1985, and
had money withdrawn from their military pay are generally
eligible. You can use these benefits in service or out of
service. Some Vietnam Era veterans and certain veterans
separated under special programs are also eligible. The
Montgomery GI Bill also includes a program for Selected Reservists
and National Guard members.
- Veterans Education Assistance Program (VEAP)
This program is for veterans who entered active duty for the
first time after December 31, 1976, and before July 1, 1985, and
contributed to an education fund.
- Survivors' and Dependents' Education Assistance
Some spouses and children are eligible for benefits.
What Are the Time Limits for Using Benefits?
Generally, the following time limits apply. These time limits
can sometimes be extended.
- Veterans have 10 years from the date they
were last released from active duty to use their education benefits.
- Reservists and National Guard Members have
10 years from their eligibility date, which is determined by the
Department of Defense or the Department of Transportation.
- Spouses have 10 years from the date VA
determines them eligible.
- Children are generally eligible from age 18
until age 26.
How Do You Find Out If You're Eligible?
To find out if you are eligible for VA educational assistance, you
must send VA an application. If you are a service member, veteran,
reservist, or National Guard member, use VA Form 22-1990, Application
for Education Benefits. If you are the child or spouse of
a veteran, use VA Form 22-5490, Application for Survivors' and
Dependents' Educational Assistance.
To get an application or for more information, visit
our website at http://www.gibill.va.gov
or call us at 1-888-GI-BILL-1 (1-888-442-4551). See the
map below to find out where to mail your completed application.
It is a good idea to send us this application now,
even if you don't plan to start school soon. That way you will be
sure to have the VA information you need when planning for your
education.
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