The GI Bill is one of the most valuable benefits available to veterans pursuing higher education or job training. But what exactly does the GI Bill pay for? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various educational expenses covered by GI Bill programs like tuition, housing, books, and more.
A Brief History of the GI Bill
The GI Bill has an extensive history dating back to 1944 when the original Servicemen’s Readjustment Act was passed. This provided education, unemployment benefits, and home loan assistance to returning WWII veterans. The bill has been revised over the years, most significantly with the Post-9/11 GI Bill in 2008. This newest iteration continues to provide invaluable education benefits to post-9/11 era veterans.
Post-9/11 GI Bill Overview
The Post-9/11 GI Bill is the most widely used education program today, Here’s a quick rundown
- Covers tuition and fees at public schools or up to a national maximum per academic year at private schools
- Provides a monthly housing allowance based on school location
- Includes a stipend for textbooks and supplies, up to $1,000 per year
- No time limit for use as long as active duty requirements are met
- Can be transferred to dependents in certain cases
Tuition and Fees
One of the main purposes of the GI Bill is covering the cost of higher education. For public schools, the GI Bill pays 100% of in-state tuition and fees. For private and foreign schools there is a national yearly maximum that the GI Bill will cover.
For 2022-2023, the maximum is $26,385.33 per academic year. If costs exceed this cap, veterans may have to pay the difference. Programs like the Yellow Ribbon can sometimes help with additional expenses at participating schools.
Monthly Housing Allowance
Receiving a monthly tax-free housing stipend is a major benefit of the GI Bill. This helps veterans cover living expenses like rent while going to school.
The amount is based on the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for an E-5 with dependents in the zip code of the school. For example, the average for 2022 is around $2,100 per month for in-person attendance. Those attending fully online receive half the national BAH average.
Textbook and Supply Stipend
Every academic year, the GI Bill provides $1,000 to help cover books, supplies, equipment, and other educational costs. This stipend is prorated based on enrollment status.
$1,000 per year may not cover all expenses. But it helps significantly reduce the overall cost of required materials like textbooks, which can be expensive.
Tutorial Assistance
If you’re struggling with coursework, the GI Bill offers up to $100 per month for tutorial services. This could be private tutoring or assistance through an accredited program. Counseling and remedial services are also covered.
Licensing, Certification, and National Tests
The GI Bill will pay for licensing and certification tests related to employment goals. This includes exams for state licenses, professional certifications, and civil service positions.
Fees for national tests like the SAT, GRE, LSAT, GMAT, etc. are covered too. You can use benefits to take exams multiple times as needed.
Vocational Programs
In addition to traditional degrees, the GI Bill pays for vocational, technical, and trade programs including:
- On-the-job training
- Apprenticeships
- Non-college degree programs at schools like ITT Tech
- Entrepreneurship training for starting a business
- Flight training programs
As long as the program provides training for an approved occupation, expenses are covered. This degree flexibility is a major advantage of the GI Bill.
Work Study Programs
VA work study allows veterans to earn hourly wages for working on campus or at approved VA facilities while using GI Bill benefits. Jobs could include working at veterans’ centers, VA cemeteries, or in an administrative capacity on campus.
What the GI Bill Doesn’t Cover
While expansive, there are limits to GI Bill benefits. Here are some common educational expenses not covered:
- Room and board – The housing stipend helps but may not cover full cost of living.
- Additional fees like parking, healthcare, etc.
- Study abroad program fees above normal charges
- Dropped or failed classes can’t be repeated with GI Bill
- Graduate school application fees
Choices for Spouses and Dependents
In certain situations, GI Bill benefits can be transferred to spouses and dependents. The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship also provides Post-9/11 benefits to children and spouses of servicemembers who died in the line of duty after 9/11.
Putting Benefits to Work
What You Need To Apply
When you apply for veteran education benefits, you’ll need the following:
- Social security number
- Military service history
- Education history
- Information about your educational plans or prospective college
- Bank direct deposit information
On average, it takes 30 days to receive a decision letter. You can request a review to dispute a rejection or file an appeal to address any other eligibility issues that come up during the application process.
How to Apply for GI Bill Benefits
Applying online is the fastest, most convenient way to find your eligibility for education benefits. Before you apply, consider using the GI Bill Comparison tool to figure out how to maximize different program features.
Choosing the right school ensures that you get the greatest return on investment from your educational plans. Military-friendly schools offer more extensive career services and support networks, and the comparison tool allows you to search for VA-approved institutions, programs, and employers that closely align with your goals.
How Much Money I Made Using The Post 9/11 GI Bill
FAQ
What exactly does the GI Bill cover?
Does GI Bill pay for everything?
What else can I use my GI Bill for?
What does the GI Bill pay for?
GI Bill benefits pay for a broad range of education and training expenses, including: College degree programs – up to 100% of in-state tuition at public universities and colleges, as well as graduate programs. Online learning. Vocational and technical training. Licensing and certification. Apprenticeship and on-the-job training.
What are GI Bill benefits?
GI Bill benefits help you pay for school and cover expenses while you’re training for a job. Since 1944, the GI Bill has helped qualifying Veterans and their family members get money to cover all or some of the costs for school or training. Learn more about GI Bill benefits on this page—and how to apply for them.
Do I have to give up GI Bill benefits?
If you’re eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill and two or more additional education benefits, you must give up one of the additional education benefits. However, you may remain eligible for the benefit or benefits you did not give up. Use the chart below to compare the education benefits available through the following programs:
How do I get GI Bill benefits?
Complete the Application for Education Benefits. After you apply for benefits, you will eventually receive a declaration of eligibility and a letter explaining your GI Bill benefits. Don’t worry if the VA sends you a letter requesting more information; this is common. You do have to respond to get your benefits, though.
What does the GI Bill mean for college?
The GI Bill means that you don’t have to pay for college out of your own pocket, but you still want to make sure you use the benefits in a way that will benefit you most in the future. If you haven’t chosen a school, research your options. Figure out what kind of education you want and what your interests are.
How do I compare GI Bill benefits?
The GI Bill Comparison Tool can help you explore your options, and a VA accredited representative can help you apply for education benefits. Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool Apply for education benefits