Previous iterations of the G.I. Bill have encouraged millions of veterans to pursue higher education. The Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act aims to replicate their success.

 

On June 30th, the President signed into law the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008, which attempts to replicate the success of the two previous G.I. Bills in encouraging veteran enrollment in institutions of higher learning. However, much has changed in the landscape of higher education in the 64 years since the original G.I. bill was passed—namely, the proliferation of distance and online learning.

 

Veterans are, under the provisions of the Act, provided with four years of tuition equal to the most expensive state school tuition in their home state. This can vary substantially, so it’s important to examine local tuition costs before considering online options. Nevertheless, online programs tend to be affordably priced and are rarely more expensive than in-state options.

 

Furthermore, while the Act specifically notes that living expense stipends cannot be paid to distance learners, most online schools offer substantial discounts to servicemen, ex-servicemen, and their spouses. This discount can add up to more than the living stipend, especially in areas where the cost of living isn’t very high. Given the convenience of online learning, it is relatively easy to maintain a part- or full-time job while studying online, further adding to the financial appeal of online learning.

 

The benefits of the Act extend beyond simple tuition, however. The following list (courtesy of Wikipedia) details the benefits provided by the Act:

• Four academic years of educational benefits for an approved program up to the cost of the most expensive in-state undergraduate public tuition in the veteran’s state of residence, currently ranging from approximately $3,500 in Wyoming to over $13,000 in Michigan.
• One for one matching of additional tuition at more expensive private schools, up to 50% of additional cost.
• A monthly living stipend based on housing costs of a servicemember of pay grade E-5 with dependents in the area of the learning institution. This rate varies greatly nationwide; the current rate for New York City is $2,444, while the same rate for El Paso, TX is $876. Veterans attending schools online or through correspondence will not receive this benefit.
• A benefit eligibility period of 15 years after leaving active duty (compared to 10 years in the current Montgomery GI Bill).
• Elimination of the $1,200 program enrollment fee paid by the veteran at the beginning of military service currently required by the Motgomery GI Bill.
• A $1,000 dollar annual book/supplies stipend.
• Up to $2,000 towards one licensing or certification test, not charged against the 36 month entitlement.

Tags: Financial Aid, Non-Traditional Students, Online Education