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If you are considering a career in the military, then you may be slightly familiar with the GI Bill. It is a popular benefit provided by the military that attracts a lot of people to join for this sole purpose.
What is the GI Bill?
Also referred to as the Montgomery GI Bill, it is a benefit provided by the military that provides military education benefits to veterans and active duty personnel. There are two different types of GI BILLS: GI Bill for Active Duty and GI Bill for Selected Reserve.
- Active Duty GI BILL: With the active duty GI Bill you can receive up to three years of education training. This includes training at vocational and technical schools as well as colleges and universities. It is even good for select independent study programs. The general timeline is that you have ten years from your date of discharge to use your benefits. It can be more or less depending on individual circumstances.
- GI Bill for Selected Reserve: This is similar to the benefits of the active duty GI bill, however the benefits are extended to members of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard as well as the Army and Air National Guard. There are a few differences however for the selected reserve. If you were signed after 1985, you have a six-year obligation to serve in the selected reserve before using your GI benefits.
New GI Bill Information
The new GI Bill, also known as the Post 9/11 GI Bill will go into effect in August 2009. There are a plethora of changes that should be highlighted. These benefits are available to veterans as well as Reserve and Guard members who have been activated for more than 90 days since 9/11/01. Veterans who served in the military after September 11, 2001, will see the following new benefits:
- Full tuition and fees paid (part time students will see a discount rather than full tuition). The amount also is dependent upon time of service to the military. The tuition will be paid from the VA directly to the school of attendance.
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Monthly housing stipend that averages $1100 per month will be provided. This stipend will not be provided to distance learning students.
- $1000 allowance per year for books and supplies. This can be used for anything that assists you with your classes.
- This new GI Bill is valid for up to 15 years post discharge, rather than the 10 years that is provided in the current GI Bill.
- Tutorial Assistance: The new GI Bill will allow for up to $1200 ($100 per month) of tutorial assistance. This is perfect for struggling students who may need to pay a tutor.
- Transfer of Benefits: Under the new GI Bill, a servicemember who has served at least ten years on active duty will be able to transfer their GI benefits to a spouse or dependent child. The transfer of benefits is only valid for tuition costs only.
As you can see, the GI Bill, especially the new GI Bill, is a very valuable benefit when you join the military. When you leave the military you will not only have veteran status, but you will have the benefits of the GI Bill to help you pursue your education. Another solid option when it comes to paying for College.
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