Post 9 11 GI Bill Changes Coming Aug. 1
Just when you were getting comfortable with the Post 9/11 GI Bill the government throws changes your way. In January, President Obama signed the new Post 9-11 GI Bill legislation to simplify the process for paying military education benefits for military members, veterans and eligible dependents.
But don’t sweat the details, we’re here to break down the new rules for you. The main changes coming on Aug. 1 are listed below.
Amount of Funding
The Post 9/11 GI Bill changes will simplify tuition and fee rates. At public schools, no matter if you are an in-state or out-of-state student, the amount you receive will cover all in- state tuition and fees. For private or foreign schools, you could receive a total of $17,500 per year. If you’re at an out of state, private or foreign school and your tuition and fees exceed the amount provided you can use the Yellow Ribbon Program to pay for any excess tuition and fees, if the school participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program.
Previously, you were eligible to receive an amount based on the highest in- state tuition and fees at a public institution, no matter what type of school you attended. And, the amount varied depending on what state the school is located in.
Housing Pay
Your break or interval pay is no longer payable. When your semester ends your housing allowance is paid for the first 15 days of the month and only begins again when your next semester starts. You also receive a prorated housing allowance, prorated according to your rate of pursuit. So, you can receive more if you’re a full-time student than if you’re a part-time student.
Testing Fees
You can now be reimbursed for more than one license or certification test, but your entitlement is charged. Fees paid to take national exams for college admission such as SAT, GMAT, LSAT are also reimbursable.
MGIB Kickers
There is one change that impacts the Montgomery GI Bill, MGIB, (Chapter 30) and MGIB-SR (Chapter 1606). Kickers or college fund payments can now be paid by the VA on a monthly basis instead of a lump sum at the beginning of the term.
If you have any questions about military education benefits or want to explore your education options, explore UniversityDecisions.com and ArmedForcesEDU.com.