Applying for Initial Title 38 Benefits

Students applying for veterans' educational benefits should allow eight to ten weeks for processing before receiving benefits. The amount of benefits awarded is determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs and is based on the number of credit hours (units) or clock hours for which a student is enrolled monthly. The process for applying for veterans educational benefits is different for New Students that have never recieved benefits before and for Continuing/Transfer Students that have already initiated benefits before.

Road Map for Success (by Veterans Affairs)

This “Road Map” will help you determine what benefit is best for you and how to apply for it!

Learn what education benefit is best for you

Many veterans and active duty personnel can qualify for more than one education benefits program, including the

• Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
• Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB, Chapter 30 and Chapter 1606)
• Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP, chapter 1607)
• VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment program (Chapter 31).

Depending on your individual circumstances, one of these programs may give you better benefits than the others. While you are the only person who can choose which program meets your needs, we have developed a step-by-step process that may help you compare the different education programs and decide which is best for you. This process includes links to additional information on the website that may help you make your decision.

1. Determine Your Best Benefit

2. Collect Your Paperwork and Information

3. Calculate Your Benefits

4. Compare the Programs

5. Apply

Service-Connected Disability?

If you are an active duty service member anticipating at least a 20% service-connected disability rating, or a veteran with a 20% disability rating or greater, you should first determine if any benefits to which you are entitled under Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E, chapter 31). Additional Information.

NOTE: If you need any help making your choice, VA Vocational and Employment counseling help is available to all veterans toll free at 1-800-827-1000. You also can discuss your options with a VA education benefits specialist by calling toll-free 1-888-GIBILL-1 (1-888-442-4551) or TDD at (800) 829-4833.