Unlocking the Benefits of the Post-9/11 GI Bill

The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides extensive education benefits to Veterans who served on active duty after September 10, 2001. But navigating exactly what expenses the benefit covers can be confusing.

In this article, I’ll give a comprehensive overview of what the Post-9/11 GI Bill pays for. Read on to learn how this program can help you pursue college, training programs, licensing and certifications, entrepreneurship, and more.

Tuition and Fees

One of the core benefits of the Post-9/11 GI Bill is assistance paying for tuition and fees at schools and training programs. This includes:

• Colleges and universities – both undergraduate and graduate programs

• Vocational schools and technical training programs

• Flight schools

• Apprenticeship programs

• Licensing and certification exams

If you qualify for 100% of the benefit, the Post-9/11 GI Bill will fully cover the cost of in-state tuition and fees at public schools in your state. For private or foreign schools and out-of-state programs, the benefit covers up to a yearly maximum.

In 2023, the maximum payments are:

• $26,381 per academic year for private school tuition

• $27,476 per academic year for out-of-state tuition

These maximums are adjusted annually. So no matter where you attend school, a significant portion of your tuition and fees will be covered.

Housing Allowance

While using the Post-9/11 GI Bill, you’ll also receive a monthly housing allowance (MHA) if you’re enrolled at least half-time. This helps cover your cost of living while in school.

The MHA payment amount depends on a few factors:

• Your GI Bill eligibility percentage – Those with at least 36 months of active duty service qualify for the full allowance.

• Your course load – Taking more classes results in a higher payment.

• Whether you’re taking in-person or online classes – Online programs receive a reduced allowance.

• The cost of living where your school is located – Allowances are higher in high-rent areas.

In 2023, the national average MHA for students attending in-person classes full-time is $2,150 per month. Payments are prorated if you’re attending less than full-time.

Book and Supply Stipends

Another Post-9/11 GI Bill provision is an annual stipend to help cover books, laptops, tablets, and other supplies.

For 2023, the book stipend provides up to $1,000 per academic year. The exact payout depends on your course load.

These funds are paid proportionally based on enrollment each term. You can use them to cover any education-related supplies – not just traditional books.

Licensure and Certification Testing

The GI Bill includes reimbursement for fees paid for licensing and certification tests. This includes exams required for state licensure and national certifications related to your program of study.

You must pass the test to receive reimbursement. The benefit covers up to $2,000 in test fees per test.

Common examples include teaching certifications, IT exams, healthcare certifications, and state bar exams for law students.

National Testing Programs

Related to licensing and certifications, the Post-9/11 GI Bill also offers reimbursement for national testing programs. These are exams required for admission to undergraduate programs and graduate schools.

Up to $2,000 is covered for fees paid for approved tests like:

• SAT
• GRE
• GMAT
• LSAT
• MCAT

Reimbursement is issued after you take the test and your score is reported.

Relocation Allowance

Veterans in certain situations may qualify for a one-time rural relocation allowance.

To be eligible, all of these must be true:

• You live in a county with 6 or fewer people per square mile

• You’re relocating at least 500 miles to attend school

• There are no other in-person options within 500 miles of your home

If approved, you’ll receive a $500 payment to help cover moving expenses. Additional allowances are provided if you must fly to reach your new school.

Yellow Ribbon Program

The Yellow Ribbon Program is a supplemental funding program that covers portions of tuition and fees exceeding the Post-9/11 GI Bill’s maximums.

Schools voluntarily opt into the program and agree to make additional contributions toward these costs. VA then matches the school’s contributions dollar-for-dollar.

Over 5,000 degree-granting schools and hundreds of other training providers participate. Their annual contributions reduce out-of-pocket tuition costs for eligible students.

Transferability to Dependents

Veterans who qualify can transfer unused GI Bill benefits to their spouse or dependent children. This allows your family members to pursue their own education goals.

To transfer benefits, you must have at least 6 years of service and commit to serving 4 more years. Transferability must also be approved by the applicable military service.

Each dependent receives up to 36 months of benefits. The time can be divided among multiple dependents as you choose.

Work Study Program

If you’re using GI Bill benefits, you may be eligible for an additional work study allowance. This program provides tax-free earnings while gaining valuable work experience.

Qualifying work study jobs are located on campus and in VA facilities like hospitals, vet centers, and cemeteries. Average awards are $800 per semester based on hours worked.

Entrepreneurship Training

A newer Post-9/11 GI Bill benefit provides entrepreneurship training for Veterans interested in starting or growing a small business.

You can use a portion of your education benefits to cover approved entrepreneurship courses offered by Higher Learning Institutions. Some benefits can also be used for planning activities and purchasing supplies.

Using GI Bill entitlement for entrepreneurship training is an exciting option for Veterans aspiring to be their own boss one day.

Preparing for Your Future

As you can see, Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits extend well beyond just traditional college degrees. There are provisions to help you pursue all kinds of education and training.

If you’re a Post-9/11 Veteran, explore how you can make the most of your earned benefits. The GI Bill provides amazing opportunities to help jumpstart your future career and reach your goals.