Intro
Unlock the power of National Guard education benefits with the GI Bill. Discover how to maximize your tuition assistance, education assistance, and student loan repayment benefits. Learn about eligibility, application processes, and benefits for online courses, vocational training, and college degrees. Empower your future with National Guard GI Bill education benefits explained.
The National Guard is a reserve component of the US Armed Forces, comprising citizen-soldiers who can be called upon to serve in times of war or national emergency. In addition to their military service, National Guard members are entitled to various education benefits, which can help them pursue higher education or vocational training. One of the most significant education benefits available to National Guard members is the GI Bill.
What is the GI Bill?
The GI Bill is a federal education benefit program that provides financial assistance to eligible military personnel, including National Guard members, to help them pursue higher education or vocational training. The program was established in 1944 to provide education and training benefits to veterans returning from World War II. Today, the GI Bill is one of the most popular education benefits available to military personnel.
Types of GI Bill Benefits
There are several types of GI Bill benefits available to National Guard members, including:
- Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
- Post-9/11 GI Bill
- Dependents' Educational Assistance Program (DEA)
- Veterans' Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)
Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
The MGIB-SR is a popular education benefit program for National Guard members. To be eligible, members must have a six-year commitment to the Selected Reserve, complete their initial active duty for training (IADT), and serve in a drilling unit.
Benefits under the MGIB-SR include:
- Up to 36 months of education benefits
- Up to $369 per month for full-time students
- Up to $278 per month for three-quarter-time students
- Up to $185 per month for half-time students
- Up to $92 per month for less-than-half-time students
Post-9/11 GI Bill
The Post-9/11 GI Bill is another education benefit program available to National Guard members. To be eligible, members must have served at least 90 days of active duty since September 10, 2001.
Benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill include:
- Up to 36 months of education benefits
- Up to 100% tuition and fees for in-state students at public colleges and universities
- Up to $26,042.81 per year for private colleges and universities
- Up to $2,000 per year for vocational or technical training
- Up to $1,000 per year for books and supplies
- Up to $1,000 per year for housing stipend
Dependents' Educational Assistance Program (DEA)
The DEA is an education benefit program for the dependents of National Guard members, including spouses and children. To be eligible, dependents must be between the ages of 18 and 26, and the sponsor must be a veteran with a service-connected disability or a member who died in service.
Benefits under the DEA include:
- Up to 45 months of education benefits
- Up to $1,024 per month for full-time students
- Up to $768 per month for three-quarter-time students
- Up to $512 per month for half-time students
- Up to $256 per month for less-than-half-time students
Veterans' Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)
The VEAP is an education benefit program for National Guard members who contribute to the program through payroll deductions. To be eligible, members must have served in the military between January 1, 1977, and June 30, 1985.
Benefits under the VEAP include:
- Up to 36 months of education benefits
- Up to $434 per month for full-time students
- Up to $325 per month for three-quarter-time students
- Up to $217 per month for half-time students
- Up to $109 per month for less-than-half-time students
How to Apply for GI Bill Benefits
To apply for GI Bill benefits, National Guard members can follow these steps:
- Determine eligibility: Check the VA website to determine eligibility for GI Bill benefits.
- Gather required documents: Collect required documents, including DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, and a copy of the sponsor's service record.
- Apply online: Apply for GI Bill benefits online through the VA website.
- Submit application: Submit the application and supporting documents to the VA.
- Receive benefits: Once approved, receive GI Bill benefits to pursue higher education or vocational training.
GI Bill Benefits for Online Education
The GI Bill can also be used for online education. Many colleges and universities offer online degree programs that are eligible for GI Bill benefits. To be eligible, online programs must be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.
Benefits under the GI Bill for online education include:
- Up to 36 months of education benefits
- Up to 100% tuition and fees for online degree programs
- Up to $2,000 per year for vocational or technical training
- Up to $1,000 per year for books and supplies
- Up to $1,000 per year for housing stipend
Conclusion
The GI Bill is a valuable education benefit program for National Guard members, providing financial assistance to pursue higher education or vocational training. With several types of GI Bill benefits available, National Guard members can choose the program that best fits their education goals. By understanding the eligibility requirements, benefits, and application process, National Guard members can take advantage of the GI Bill to achieve their education goals.
National Guard GI Bill Education Benefits Gallery
What is the GI Bill?
+The GI Bill is a federal education benefit program that provides financial assistance to eligible military personnel, including National Guard members, to help them pursue higher education or vocational training.
How do I apply for GI Bill benefits?
+To apply for GI Bill benefits, National Guard members can follow these steps: determine eligibility, gather required documents, apply online, submit application, and receive benefits.
Can I use the GI Bill for online education?
+Yes, the GI Bill can be used for online education. Many colleges and universities offer online degree programs that are eligible for GI Bill benefits.