Ultimate List of Yellow Ribbon Schools: Your Guide to GI Bill Benefits

Your Education, Your Future. As a veteran or military-affiliated student, you’ve earned powerful education benefits through the GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program. With over 2,000 schools participating in 2025, the Yellow Ribbon Program can cover tuition costs beyond the GI Bill’s $28,937 cap (2025-26), potentially saving you thousands. This SEO-optimized, student-focused guide provides the full, updated list of Yellow Ribbon schools by state (VA-verified as of June 2025), plus tools and expert tips to help you find the perfect school fast.

What is the Yellow Ribbon Program? The Yellow Ribbon Program partners with schools to cover tuition/fees not paid by the Post-9/11 GI Bill (up to 50% school contribution, matched by VA). It’s ideal for private schools or out-of-state public ones exceeding the GI Bill cap. Eligibility: You need 100% Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits (36+ months service or equivalent). Not automatic—apply through your school early.

Am I Eligible? 2-Minute Check Answer these:

  • Served 36+ months active duty (or aggregate)?
  • Received a Purple Heart post-9/11 with honorable discharge?
  • Discharged after 30+ days with service-connected disability?
  • A dependent using transferred benefits? If yes, and your school participates, you’re likely eligible. Use the VA’s GI Bill Eligibility Tool for confirmation.

Why Yellow Ribbon Schools Matter for You

  • Save Big: Up to 100% tuition coverage beyond GI Bill limits.
  • Choice: Pick from undergrad, grad, or doctoral programs.
  • Opportunity: Over 2,000 schools, plus all public universities offer in-state tuition for veterans (up to 3 years post-discharge).
  • Heads-Up: Spots are limited! Apply early to secure benefits.

Yellow Ribbon Schools

How to Apply for Yellow Ribbon Benefits

  1. Confirm GI Bill Eligibility: Apply for Post-9/11 GI Bill via VA.gov. Receive Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
  2. Pick a School: Use the list above; verify participation with school’s VA office.
  3. Submit to School: Provide COE to school’s VA certifying official.
  4. VA Matches Funds: If approved, school and VA split extra costs; funds go directly to school.

Action: Download the VA’s Yellow Ribbon Application Guide for step-by-step help.

Key Facts to Know

  • Public Schools: All offer in-state tuition for veterans (up to 3 years post-discharge).
  • Private Schools: Yellow Ribbon covers up to 50% school + 50% VA match.
  • Not for: Active duty members or spouses.
  • Limited Spots: First-come, first-served; apply ASAP.
  • Coverage: Tuition/fees only; excludes room/board.
  • Flexibility: Use for full/part-time, summer terms (if offered).

FAQs

Is Yellow Ribbon automatic? No, you must apply through your school. Spots may be limited by program or student count. Check with VA’s School Locator.

Does it cover all tuition? Not always—depends on school’s agreement with VA. Typically covers mandatory fees, not housing.

Can I use it online? Yes, for participating online schools (see list). Great for flexible schedules.

What if my school isn’t listed? Verify with the school’s VA office or search VA’s Yellow Ribbon Database.