GI Bill Benefits for Veterans and Military Families

If you're a veteran, active-duty service member, or eligible dependent, the GI Bill can cover tuition, housing, books, and more. Check your eligibility now on VA.gov or apply for benefits.

Updated for 2025: Many veterans with multiple service periods may now qualify for up to 48 months of benefits.

Quick Answers: What You Need to Know About the GI Bill

Am I Eligible? Yes, if you served at least 90 days on active duty after September 10, 2001 (Post-9/11 GI Bill), or meet specific requirements for Montgomery GI Bill programs. New in 2025: Up to 48 months total if you have multiple qualifying periods (e.g., combining Post-9/11 and Montgomery benefits per Rudisill Supreme Court decision).
What Does It Cover? Full in-state tuition at public schools, up to $29,920.95 for private/foreign schools (2025-2026 rates), monthly housing allowance (based on location), up to $1,000/year for books, and more.
How Long Do Benefits Last? 36 months standard (up to 48 with updates); no time limit for Post-9/11 if discharged after Jan. 1, 2013.
Can I Transfer Benefits? Yes, to spouses or children if you're eligible.
Action Step: Use the VA Comparison Tool to find approved schools and estimate benefits.

How to Apply for GI Bill Benefits (Step-by-Step)

Start here to access your benefits quickly:

Verify Eligibility and Gather Documents: Confirm your service history (e.g., DD-214 for veterans). Active-duty members may need ESO approval.
Choose a Program: Apply to a VA-approved school, employer, or training program. Search approved options.
Submit Application: Apply online via VA Form 22-1990 for veterans/active duty, or Form 22-1990E for dependents. If combining benefits under 2025 updates, use Form 22-1995 if previously decided.
Receive Certificate of Eligibility (COE): VA sends this after approval—share it with your school.
Enroll and Certify: Your school submits enrollment to VA; payments begin once classes start.
Track Your Benefits: Check remaining entitlement.

Pro Tip: If your benefits expired, file by October 1, 2030, for possible extensions under the Rudisill decision. Need help? Contact VA at 888-442-4551.

GI Bill Programs Overview

The GI Bill offers multiple programs to support education and training. Here's a breakdown:

Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) – Most Popular Option

Covers up to 100% of benefits based on service length. Updated for 2025: If you have 2+ qualifying periods, combine with Montgomery GI Bill for up to 48 months total.

Benefits (2025-2026 Rates):
- Tuition/Fees: Full for public in-state; up to $29,920.95 for private/foreign/non-degree programs.
- Housing (MHA): Equivalent to E-5 BAH rate in school's zip code (prorated); $2,338/month national average for foreign schools; $1,169/month for online-only.
- Books/Supplies: Up to $1,000/year.
- Extras: $500 rural relocation grant; tutorial assistance up to $1,200; work-study jobs.
Transferable: To family members.
Eligibility: 90+ days active duty post-9/11; full benefits at 36 months or with Purple Heart/service-connected disability.

Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD)

Monthly payments for education costs; can now combine with Post-9/11 for extra months under 2025 updates.

Eligibility: 2+ years active duty, honorable discharge, high school diploma/GED.
Benefits: Varies by course load; use for tuition, training, etc.

Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)

For Reserves/National Guard.

Eligibility: 6-year obligation, good standing.
Benefits: Monthly payments similar to MGIB-AD.

Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E)

For disabled veterans: Counseling, training, job placement.

Eligibility: Service-connected disability rating of 10%+.

GI Bill for Dependents and Survivors

Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA): For children/spouses of disabled/deceased veterans.
Fry Scholarship: Full tuition for children/spouses of those who died in line of duty post-9/11.
Action: Apply as a dependent.

What Can the GI Bill Be Used For?

Beyond college, explore these options:

College Degrees: Undergraduate, graduate at universities/community colleges.
Vocational/Technical Training: Non-degree programs (e.g., HVAC, trucking).
Apprenticeships/On-the-Job Training: Paid while learning a trade.
Licensing/Certification: Reimbursement for tests (SAT, LSAT, etc.) and prep courses.
Flight Training: If you have a private pilot's license.
Correspondence/Online: Quarterly payments for distance learning.
Work-Study/Tutoring: Earn extra or get help with courses.
Tuition Top-Up: Bridge gaps with military tuition assistance.