Compare every GI Bill program, understand your housing allowance, and apply the right way. Don't leave education money on the table.
Pays tuition directly to school, plus a monthly housing allowance and $1,000/yr book stipend. For veterans who served 90+ days after Aug 1, 2001.
Monthly cash payment you use for education expenses. Best if your school tuition is lower than the monthly payment rate.
For National Guard and Reserve members with a 6-year service obligation. Lower monthly rate than active duty MGIB.
For veterans with a service-connected disability. Covers tuition, fees, books, supplies, AND a monthly subsistence allowance.
| Benefit | What You Get | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | 100% in-state public; $29,920.95/yr private cap | Paid directly to school |
| Housing Allowance (BAH) | E-5 w/dependents rate at school ZIP code | Paid monthly while enrolled |
| Book Stipend | Up to $1,000/academic year | Pro-rated by enrollment rate |
| Rural Benefit | $500 one-time payment | School 500+ miles from prior duty station |
| Duration | 36 months (4 academic years) | Based on active duty time served |
| Transfer to Dependents | Yes — spouse or children | Must request while still on active duty |
| Active Duty Service | Benefit % | Max Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| 36+ months | 100% | Full in-state or $28,937 private |
| 30 months | 90% | 90% of cap |
| 24 months | 80% | 80% of cap |
| 18 months | 70% | 70% of cap |
| 6 months | 40% | 40% of cap |
Your monthly housing allowance equals the BAH rate for an E-5 with dependents at your school's ZIP code. Online-only students receive a flat $1,126/month.
| City / Area | Est. Monthly BAH (E-5 w/Dep) |
|---|---|
| New York City, NY | $4,215 |
| San Diego, CA | $3,618 |
| Washington, DC | $3,441 |
| Chicago, IL | $2,706 |
| Austin, TX | $2,052 |
| Online / Distance Learning | $1,169 (flat, Aug 2025–Jul 2026) |
If private tuition exceeds the Post-9/11 cap, Yellow Ribbon can cover the difference. The VA matches the school's contribution dollar-for-dollar.
Confirm honorable discharge, days served, and which GI Bill chapter applies to you.
Submit VA Form 22-1990 online. Takes about 10 minutes. Certificate of Eligibility arrives by mail in 4–6 weeks.
Verify your program at the WEAMS database. Most accredited schools qualify — confirm before enrolling.
Bring your COE to the veterans office. They certify your enrollment to the VA each semester.
Confirm enrollment each month via VA.gov, the VA app, or by phone (1-877-823-2378) to keep BAH flowing.
If you have a service-connected disability, use Chapter 31 first. It doesn't count against your 36-month GI Bill entitlement.
Public in-state tuition is fully covered. Private schools? Check Yellow Ribbon availability before you commit.
Between two equally good schools, the one in a higher-cost city means significantly more monthly housing allowance.
Post-9/11 GI Bill has a 15-year window from your last discharge. Plan your education before the clock runs out.
Yes. Online students receive a flat $1,169/month housing allowance instead of the location-based BAH. Tuition coverage works the same way.
Absolutely. There are no income restrictions. Housing allowance is based on enrollment rate, not income.
Your housing allowance is adjusted down based on the new credit load. Below half-time, BAH drops to zero. Notify your school's VA office immediately.
Yes — if the program is VA-approved. Coding bootcamps, trade schools, apprenticeships, and OJT programs often qualify. Check the GI Bill Comparison Tool at va.gov.
Apply online at VA.gov — takes about 10 minutes. Your Certificate of Eligibility arrives in 4–6 weeks.
Apply at VA.gov →