FAQ

Q: Should I change to the Post 9/11 GI Bill?

A: That depends upon your individual circumstances.  Check online for  “Which Benefit is Best for Me?” before you make your decision.

Q: If I choose to take the Post 9/11 GI Bill, can I change my mind later?

A: No.  The decision to use the Post 9/11 GI Bill is irrevocable, so consider carefully before you choose that option.

Q: What will my Post 9/11 GI Bill cover?

A: Depending upon your eligibility, you will receive tuition, fees, book stipend, and housing allowance.

Q: Will I receive all of my housing allowance if I attend less than full time?

A: You must be enrolled for at least 7 credits in order to receive the Basic Housing Allowance (BAH).

Q: Can I take online classes and still receive my GI Benefits?

A: If you are using the Post 9/11 GI Bill, you must take at least one face-to-face class in order to receive the BAH.  Also, you cannot take an under-100-level online class. 

Q: What happens if I drop classes?

A: When you change your schedule, the Veterans Services Coordinator must report the change to the VA.  If this results in a reduction of credits, the VA may consider it an overpayment and charge you accordingly.

Q: What if I want to take classes outside of those required for my degree?

A: The Veterans Services Coordinator can only certify you (report to VA) the number of credits you are taking that are directly (or are prerequisite to) applicable to your degree.  If you take classes outside of the established classes for the degree, you will need to pay for them yourself, and they will not count toward your VA Benefit award.

Q: If I am failing a class is it better to drop, or continue to attend and take a failing grade?

A: For VA purposes, it is better to continue to attend classes.  The Veterans Services Coordinator must report the date that you stopped attending classes.  This may result in a overpayment from the VA.  If you fail the class, and it is a requirement for your degree, the VA will pay for you to take it again.  If you take a “non-punitive grade, the Veterans Services Coordinator must report it.  If the grade is punitive, and you attended all quarter, the grade will not be reported.

Q: When will I receive my benefits from the VA?

A: The VA pays in arrears.  Payment will be made at the beginning of the month for the previous month’s attendance.  Remember if you are chapter 30, 1606, or 1607 to verify your attendance on WAVES the last day of each month.

Q: When will my tuition be due?

A: It is your responsibility to be sure your tuition is paid.  However, if the Veterans Services Office has received an award letter (Certificate of Eligibility) from the VA, we will hold you in your classes until (for Chapter 30, 35, 1606, 1607) your first check arrives from the VA.  For Chapter 33, we will hold you in your classes until the VA has made payment for your tuition.  At that point you will become responsible for any outstanding charges.