Veteran Student Resources & Support
Navigating Education Benefits and Campus Life with Confidence
Your Education Benefits: What They Cover
Whether you served on active duty, in the National Guard, or the Reserves, there are VA and state-level education benefits available to help pay for school. Knowing which benefits you qualify for—and how they work together—is key to making the most of your service.
Post‑9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
This is the most widely used benefit and may cover:
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Full tuition and fees at public colleges
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A monthly housing allowance
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A book and supply stipend
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A one-time rural relocation payment (if eligible)
National Guard and Reserve members may qualify for the Post‑9/11 GI Bill based on their active-duty service. If you’ve been mobilized for federal duty (Title 10 or qualifying Title 32 time), you may have earned GI Bill benefits—check your DD214 or service records to confirm eligibility.
Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR, Chapter 1606)
This benefit is for actively drilling members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard Reserve, as well as the Army and Air National Guard. It provides a monthly stipend to help cover education and training costs.
Unlike the Post‑9/11 GI Bill, Chapter 1606 does not cover tuition directly—you’ll pay tuition out-of-pocket or with other aid, but the monthly check can help cover costs. Eligibility usually requires a six-year obligation and completion of basic training and AIT.
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E, Chapter 31)
If you have a service-connected disability rating of 10% or higher, VR&E may fund school, training, or career services. It can also cover books, supplies, technology, and a subsistence allowance.
VR&E is available to eligible veterans from all branches and components, including National Guard and Reserve, as long as they meet disability and discharge criteria.
State-Level National Guard Education Benefits
Many states offer tuition assistance or fee waivers to National Guard members who serve in-state. These programs are separate from VA benefits and can sometimes be used together with the GI Bill.
Examples include:
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Tuition reimbursement for state universities or community colleges
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Free or discounted access to public higher education
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State-based scholarships for Guard members and dependents
Ask your unit education officer or check your state National Guard education office to find out what’s available where you live.
Student Veteran Groups & Community
One of the best ways to stay grounded in college is by building community—and Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapters are a powerful way to do that.
SVA and other campus veteran groups can provide:
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Peer support from others who’ve made the same transition
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Leadership and advocacy opportunities on campus and beyond
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Connections to national scholarships, conferences, and internships
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Social events, volunteer projects, and career development workshops
Whether you're looking for networking, advocacy, or just a place where people get your story, student veteran groups can make a big difference in your college experience. Check your school’s club listings or ask your veterans center how to get involved.
Veteran Centers on Campus
Most colleges and universities now have a Veterans Resource Center or military-affiliated student office. These spaces offer:
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A dedicated place to study, relax, or connect with other veterans
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Assistance with paperwork, enrollment certifications, and benefit questions
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Access to peer mentors, VA counselors, and veteran service officers
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Workshops on job search strategies, mental health, and navigating campus life
Even if your school’s veteran center is small, it’s a valuable hub. Take the time to visit, introduce yourself to the staff, and find out what services are available to you and your family.
Scholarships and Financial Support
In addition to your VA benefits, you may qualify for additional financial support.
Many schools offer:
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Scholarships for military-affiliated students
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Emergency funds or textbook stipends
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Support for dependents and spouses using transferred GI Bill benefits
Outside organizations like AMVETS, VFW, and SVA also offer scholarships on a national scale. Be sure to ask what’s available at your institution and apply early.
Who to Talk To
Navigating your education benefits can feel overwhelming at times—but you don’t have to do it alone. Here are the people and offices who can help you make the most of your VA resources and student experience:
School Certifying Officials (SCOs)
These are the staff members at your college who submit your course schedule and enrollment info to the VA so your benefits get processed. They can also help you understand how full-time status, withdrawals, or program changes affect your payments.
Find your SCO on the VA website
VetSuccess on Campus (VSOC) Counselors
VSOC counselors are VA employees who work directly on college campuses to support student veterans. They help with academic planning, disability accommodations, VR&E services (Chapter 31), and transitioning to civilian careers.
Learn about VetSuccess on Campus
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Counselors
If you have a service-connected disability, your VR&E counselor helps you build a personalized career plan. They can also approve tuition, supplies, and sometimes extra supports like tutoring or assistive tech.
Apply or manage your VR&E benefits
Veteran Service Officers (VSOs)
VSOs work through state and nonprofit agencies to help you file VA claims, navigate appeals, or troubleshoot delays. They’re free to use and don’t work for the VA, which means they can advocate on your behalf.
Find an accredited VSO near you
Your Campus Veterans Center
Whether it’s a full-fledged military-affiliated student lounge or just a staff member who understands your benefits, your college probably has someone dedicated to supporting veteran and military students. Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself, ask questions, and get connected.