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If you've earned GI Bill benefits — or will inherit them from a parent or spouse — they're one of the most generous ways to pay for college, but the details matter. Here's how the main benefits work and how to actually put them to use.
Post-9/11 GI Bill
Most commonThe main benefit for those who served after 9/10/2001. At 100% eligibility it can cover full in-state public tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance (based on the school's ZIP code), and a books stipend — for up to 36 months of education. The percentage scales with your length of service.
Yellow Ribbon Program
Private/out-of-stateFor private or out-of-state schools whose costs exceed the Post-9/11 cap, participating colleges can waive part of the extra, and the VA matches it — closing the gap so you can attend a pricier school with little or no out-of-pocket tuition. Check whether your school participates.
Montgomery GI Bill
Flat monthlyAn older benefit that pays a flat monthly amount you use toward education, rather than paying the school directly. Some veterans are eligible for both and choose based on their school's cost and their housing situation.
Transfer to a spouse or child
Family benefitEligible service members can transfer unused Post-9/11 benefits to a spouse or children — a way for military families to fund a dependent's college. The transfer must usually be requested while still serving, so plan ahead.
The housing allowance is real money
Beyond tuition, the Post-9/11 GI Bill's monthly housing allowance — tied to the school's location — can be a substantial, livable stipend while you study. For many veterans it's the difference between affording to focus on school and having to work full-time.
Confirm your eligibility percentage
Post-9/11 benefits scale from 50% to 100% based on your months of active-duty service. Knowing your tier tells you how much tuition, housing, and stipend you'll receive. The VA can confirm your eligibility.
Apply through the VA
Apply for your Certificate of Eligibility through VA.gov (Form 22-1990, or 22-1990E for transferred benefits). Bring or send the certificate to your school's veterans/certifying official, who enrolls you for benefits each term.
Use your school's veteran services office
Most colleges have a veterans services or military-affiliated office that handles certification, connects you to other benefits, and supports veteran students. Start there — they know the process inside out.
Stack with other aid and in-state tuition
Veterans often qualify for in-state tuition regardless of residency under federal rules, and GI Bill benefits can combine with scholarships. File the FAFSA too — you may qualify for additional grants on top of your military benefits.
If you want to pass benefits to a spouse or child, the transfer generally must be initiated while you're still serving, often with a service commitment. Families who wait until after separation can lose the chance. If a dependent might use your GI Bill, set up the transfer early.
Stack every source: compare military paths that pay for college, file the FAFSA, and read your aid offer.