NatSec@Work - National Security Workforce - September Issue

Military Transition

The Yellow Ribbon Program is a type of scholarship or waiver program that some schools offer to their veteran students. The award helps offset tuition and fees that exceed the in-state public undergraduate tuition rate. For example, students who pay out-of-state tuition, and attend private schools or graduate school can benefit from the Yellow Ribbon program. One caveat is that the student must use the Post-9/11 GI Bill to be eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program. It does not apply to students using the Montgomery GI Bill., Check to see if your school participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program. 3. UTILIZE VA RESOURCES If you are unsure which school you want to attend, using the VA’s School Comparison Tool can help as it allows you to compare different schools, how much each will cost, and what portion your GI Bill covers, thus making the financial part of the process a little simpler. Another great resource that many students do not use to its full potential is your VA Certification Official of which each school accepting the GI Bill has at least one. These individuals have direct access to the VA and can many times get a better and quicker answer to your question than you could by contacting the GI Bill help desk yourself. Don’t be afraid to use them as they are there to help you. 4. FINANCIAL PLANNING AND SUPPLEMENTARY AID Depending on your situation, your GI Bill might not cover all your education expenses. In those cases, you might want to check out applying for scholarships and grants. Many organizations offer scholarships specifically for veterans and applying for these can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Also, don’t overlook filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for additional federal and state financial aid. 5. CONSIDER IN-STATE TUITION The Choice Act includes provisions to ensure veterans who have been discharged for less than three years receive in- state tuition rates. However, if you have been out for more than three years, it’s important to understand and meet the residency requirements so you can take advantage of in-state tuition rates where you plan to attend school. With that said, some schools honor the in-state tuition rate for their veteran students who have been out for more than three years.

GI Bill Benefits

By Ron Kness

2. UNDERSTAND YOUR BENEFITS There are two basic GI Bill programs – the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Montgomery GI Bill. While some veterans will have only one or the other, some will have both. The Post-9/11 GI Bill covers tuition and fees, provides a monthly housing allowance, and a stipend for books and supplies. Under this Bill, your school receives tuition and fees directly from the VA. You as the student, receive a monthly housing allowance based on your tier level and the zip code of your school in addition to a book stipend which can be up to $1,000 per year. Under the Montgomery GI Bill, you receive a monthly benefit sent directly to you, and out of that amount (and other sources as necessary), you must pay all your own education expenses.

Military members who will be separating soon and veterans alike might be thinking about how to best use their GI Bill benefits in 2025 and beyond. Here are 9 Ways to Maximize Your GI Bill: 1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT PROGRAM Select a program that aligns with your career aspirations. Whether it’s a degree, vocational training, or a certification or two, ensure it offers the skills and knowledge you need for your desired career path. And talking about career path, make sure the training you receive, and your school has the accreditation your industry requires. This not only ensures a quality education in your field but also that your degree or certification(s) will be recognized in your industry.