Yellow Ribbon Liberal Arts Colleges

Liberal Arts Colleges Participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program

When a college chooses to participate in the Yellow Ribbon program, the school is sending a clear message that they appreciate the service and sacrifice that military members have offered. Yellow Ribbon schools voluntarily enter in a Yellow Ribbon agreement with the VA, choosing to make additional funds available for veteran students.  These additional funds help cover charges above what would be covered by the GI Bill.

The Yellow Ribbon program helps veterans avoid out-of-pocket expenses for tuition. The school can cover up to 50% of the tuition expenses that exceed the annual maximum cap. The VA then agrees to match the same amount that the school contributed. In many cases, this covers 100% of any additional cost.

What exactly is a Liberal Arts College?

A Liberal Arts College, sometimes referred at as a College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, is dedicated to serving its students a curriculum that spans a broad general knowledge base. A Liberal Arts College encourages student education in and exposure to a wide range of academic subjects, especially in the Sciences and the Humanities. This Liberal Arts curriculum is offered in contrast to a specific professional, vocational, and/or technical curriculum.

RELATED: Liberal Studies: The Perfect Degree

Renaissance Man (or Woman)

A Liberal Arts College encourages a broad range of knowledge in their students. Curriculum is developed so that students will matriculate as a “Jack of all Trades”. Students are also encouraged to choose at least one major to become a “Jack of all Trades and a Master of (at least) One”.

The driving force behind a Liberal Arts curriculum is encouraging students to explore all knowledge. The concept of a Renaissance Man, or Universal Man, holds to the belief that people are limitless in their capacities for development. The corresponding ideals behind a Liberal Arts College are that students should be encouraged and facilitated to embrace all knowledge, thereby becoming unrestricted in their own capacity for development.

In other words, students that are on a prescribed educational path via professional, vocational, and/or technical curriculum may never develop all their true potentials.

List of Yellow Ribbon Liberal Arts Colleges

Alabama

Birmingham Southern College
Huntingdon College
Judson College
Spring Hill College
Stillman College
University Of Montevallo

 

Alaska

Albertus Magnus College

Arizona

Prescott College

Arkansas

Central Baptist College
Harding University
Lyon College
Ouachita Baptist University
University Of The Ozarks

California

California Lutheran University
Claremont Mckenna College
Concordia University-Irvine
Harvey Mudd College
Mills College
Mount St Mary’s College
Occidental College
Pacific Union College
Pitzer College
Point Loma Nazarene University
Pomona College
Saint Mary’s College Of California
San Diego Christian College
University Of Redlands
Whittier College

Colorado

Adams State University
Colorado College
Fort Lewis College
Naropa University
Western State Colorado University

Connecticut

Albertus Magnus College
Connecticut College
Eastern Connecticut State University
Mitchell College
Quinnipiac University
Trinity College
University Of Saint Joseph
Wesleyan University

Delaware

None

District of Columbia (D.C.)

American University
Catholic University Of America
Corcoran College Of Art And Design
Gallaudet University
George Washington University
Georgetown University
Trinity Washington University
University Of The District Of Columbia

 

Florida

Ave Maria University
Bethune-Cookman University
Eckerd College
Palm Beach Atlantic University
Rollins College
Stetson University
Warner University

 

Georgia

Agnes Scott College
Berry College
Covenant College
Georgia State University
Mercer University
Oglethorpe University
Piedmont College
Point University
Reinhardt University
Toccoa Falls College
Wesleyan College
Young Harris College

 

Hawaii

None

 

Idaho

Northwest Nazarene University
The College Of Idaho

 

Illinois

Augustana College-Illinois
Aurora University
Blackburn College
Columbia College-Chicago
Elmhurst College
Greenville College
Illinois College
Illinois Wesleyan University
Knox College
Lake Forest College
Mckendree University
Millikin University
Monmouth College
North Central College
North Park University
Olivet Nazarene University
Quincy University
Rockford University
Shimer College
Trinity Christian College
Trinity International University-Illinois
Wheaton College-Illinois

 

Indiana

Anderson University-Indiana
DePauw University
Franklin College
Goshen College
Grace College and Theological Seminary
Hanover College
Huntington University
Indiana Wesleyan University
Manchester University
Marian University-Indiana
Saint Josephs College
Saint Mary’s College
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Taylor University
University of Evansville
University Of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne
Wabash College

 

Kentucky

Bellarmine University
Berea College
Campbellsville University
Centre College
Georgetown College
Kentucky Wesleyan College
Lindsey Wilson College
Midway University
Saint Catharine College
Thomas More College
Transylvania University
Union College-Kentucky
University Of The Cumberlands

 

Louisiana

Centenary College Of Louisiana
Southeastern Louisiana University

 

Maine

Bates College
Bowdoin College
Colby College
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Unity College
University Of Maine At Farmington
University Of Maine At Fort Kent

 

Maryland

Goucher College
Hood College
Mcdaniel College
Mount St Mary’s University
Notre Dame Of Maryland University
St Johns College
St Mary’s College Of Maryland
Stevenson University
Washington College

 

Massachusetts

Amherst College
Hampshire College
Mount Holyoke College
Smith College
University Of Massachusetts-Amherst

 

Michigan

Adrian College
Albion College
Aquinas College
Calvin College
Concordia University-Ann Arbor
Hope College
Kalamazoo College
Madonna University
Rochester College
Saginaw Valley State University
Siena Heights University

 

Minnesota

Augsburg College
Bethany Lutheran College
Carleton College
College Of Saint Benedict
Concordia College At Moorhead
Gustavus Adolphus College
Hamline University
Macalester College
St Olaf College
University of Minnesota-Morris
University Of St Thomas (MN)

 

Mississippi

Millsaps College
Mississippi University For Women

 

Missouri

Central Methodist University-College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
College Of The Ozarks
Columbia College (MO)
Culver-Stockton College
Drury University
Evangel University
Fontbonne University
Lindenwood University
Missouri Baptist University
Southwest Baptist University
Stephens College
Truman State University
Westminster College-Missouri

 

Montana

Carroll College
Rocky Mountain College
University Of Great Falls

 

Nebraska

Doane College-Crete
Hastings College
Midland University
Nebraska Wesleyan University

Nevada

Sierra Nevada University

 

New Hampshire

Colby-Sawyer College
Franklin Pierce University
Granite State College
New England College
Saint Anselm College

 

New Jersey

Caldwell University
College Of Saint Elizabeth
Drew University
Ramapo College Of New Jersey
Saint Peter’s University

 

New Mexico

St John’s College

 

New York

Adelphi University
Canisius College
Cazenovia College
Colgate University
College Of Mount Saint Vincent
Concordia College-New York
D’Youville College
Daemen College
Elmira College
Hartwick College
Hobart William Smith Colleges
Hofstra University
Houghton College
Ithaca College
Keuka College
Le Moyne College
Manhattan College
Manhattanville College
Marist College
Marymount Manhattan College
Medaille College
Mercy College
Mount Saint Mary College
Nyack College
Saint John Fisher College
Saint Joseph’s College-New York
Saint Joseph’s College-Patchogue
Sarah Lawrence College
Siena College
Skidmore College
St Bonaventure University
St Lawrence University
St Thomas Aquinas College
Suny College At Plattsburgh
Vassar College
Wagner College
Yeshiva University

North Carolina

Barton College
Belmont Abbey College
Brevard College
Catawba College
Davidson College
Duke University
Elon University
Greensboro College
Guilford College
High Point University
Lenoir-Rhyne University
Mars Hill University
Meredith College
Montreat College
North Carolina Wesleyan College
University of Mount Olive
Wake Forest University

 

North Dakota

University of Jamestown

Ohio

Antioch College
Baldwin Wallace University
Bluffton University
Capital University
Cedarville University
Defiance College
Denison University
Heidelberg University
Hiram College
John Carroll University
Kenyon College
Lake Erie College
Malone University
Marietta College
Miami University-Middletown
Miami University-Oxford
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Muskingum University
Oberlin College
Ohio Dominican University
Ohio Northern University
Ohio Wesleyan University
Otterbein University
The College Of Wooster
The University Of Findlay
Tiffin University
University Of Mount Union
Urbana University
Wilmington College
Wittenberg University

Oklahoma

Oklahoma Baptist University
Oklahoma Wesleyan University
Southern Nazarene University

 

Oregon

George Fox University
Lewis & Clark College
Linfield College-Mcminnville Campus
University Of Portland
Warner Pacific College
Western Oregon University
Willamette University

 

Pennsylvania

Albright College
Allegheny College
Bryn Mawr College
Bucknell University
Carlow University
Cedar Crest College
Chatham University
Chestnut Hill College
Dickinson College
Elizabethtown College
Franklin And Marshall College
Gannon University
Geneva College
Gettysburg College
Gwynedd Mercy University
Immaculata University
Juniata College
Keystone College
King’s College-Pennsylvania
La Salle University
Lebanon Valley College
Lycoming College
Mansfield University Of Pennsylvania
Mercyhurst University
Messiah College
Misericordia University
Moravian College
Muhlenberg College
Neumann University
Point Park University
Rosemont College
Saint Francis University
Saint Vincent College
Susquehanna University
Swarthmore College
Thiel College
University Of Scranton
Ursinus College
Washington & Jefferson College
Waynesburg University
Westminster College-Pennsylvania
Wilson College
York College Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

Providence College
Roger Williams University

 

South Carolina

Charleston Southern University
Coker College
College of Charleston
Erskine College
Furman University
Limestone College
Newberry College
Presbyterian College
Wofford College

 

South Dakota

Augustana College-South Dakota
Mount Marty College
University Of Sioux Falls

 

Tennessee

King University
Lee University
Lincoln Memorial University
Lipscomb University
Martin Methodist College
Maryville College
Milligan College
Rhodes College

Texas

Abilene Christian University
Austin College
Dallas Baptist University
Hardin-Simmons University
Houston Baptist University
Howard Payne University
Saint Edward’s University
Schreiner University
Southwestern University
St Mary’s University
Texas Wesleyan University
Trinity University
University Of Dallas
University Of St Thomas (TX)
University Of The Incarnate Word
Wayland Baptist University

Utah

Westminster College-Utah

Vermont

Bennington College
Burlington College
Castleton State College
Goddard College
Green Mountain College
Landmark College
Lyndon State College
Marlboro College
Middlebury College
Saint Michael’s College

Virginia

Bluefield College
Bridgewater College
Christendom College
Emory & Henry College
Hampden-Sydney College
Hollins University
Lynchburg College
Mary Baldwin College
Randolph College
Randolph-Macon College
Roanoke College
Shenandoah University
Southern Virginia University
Sweet Briar College
University Of Richmond
Virginia Wesleyan College
Washington And Lee University

Washington

Gonzaga University
Pacific Lutheran University
Saint Martin’s University
Seattle Pacific University
Seattle University
The Evergreen State College
University Of Puget Sound
Western Washington University
Whitman College
Whitworth University

West Virginia

Alderson Broaddus University
Bethany College-West Virginia
Davis & Elkins College
Shepherd University
West Virginia Wesleyan College
Wheeling Jesuit University

 

Wisconsin

None

 

Wyoming

None

 

RELATED:

 

 

 

Top 10 Yellow Ribbon MBA Programs

The Top Yellow Ribbon MBA Schools

To obtain a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) demonstrates professional mastery in the business arena. Many veterans find that transitioning into the business world to be a natural step after the completion of their service to the country.

CollegeRecon has created a list of the top 10 MBA programs for veterans.

RELATED: How to Determine if Business School is Right for You

Choosing the Top 10

There are thousands of colleges in the United States, and sifting through them all is a huge undertaking. The Wall Street Journal 2022 College Ranking List formed the foundation of our analysis. Based on their results, we present to you the best schools that participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program.

Wall Street Journal’s Methodology

The Wall Street Journal’s College Ranking focuses on student success and learning achievement. The WSJ looks for key indicators that illuminate issues related to student engagement, interaction with teachers, and overall satisfaction with their education.

The Wall Street Journal’s methodology encompasses four important areas of analysis:

  1. Resources – “Does the college have the capacity to effectively deliver teaching?”
  2. Engagement – “Does the college effectively engage with students?”
  3. Outcomes – “Does the college generate good and appropriate outputs?”
  4. Environment – Is the college providing a good learning environment for all students?”

The results of their survey helped determine which schools were better than others relating to these key areas. For more information, read the full Wall Street Journal College Rankings 2022 methodology.

RELATED: Vet Success on Campus

CollegeRecon’s Top 10 Yellow Ribbon MBA Schools

After sorting the schools by program, we eliminated the ones that did not participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program. So, the schools that follow are the top schools, in order of the WSJ ranking, that do participate in this VA program.

#10: Rice University

The Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University proudly participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program at the maximum possible level. To that end, once your Chapter 33 annual cap has been exceeded, Rice Business school covers half the remaining costs with a Yellow Ribbon Scholarship.

This could mean that eligible veterans may have their FULL tuition covered by the Jones School of Business.

Additionally, the university hosts the Rice Business Veterans Association which provides assistance to transitioning veterans and their families.

#9: Washington University in Saint Louis

Each year, Washington University offers 150 graduate business students the max allowable contributions through the Yellow Ribbon Program. Participation is first-come, first-served. So if you intend on using Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, you must let the school know as early as possible.

Washington University also hosts a Student Veteran Association (SVA) chapter that offers support and assistance for military-connected students. 

Specifically for MBA students, the Olin Veterans Association (OVA) assists the Olin Business School veteran students transition into the business world

#8: Columbia University

Columbia University’s graduate school of Business allows an unlimited number of students to participate in its Yellow Ribbon Program. The maximum contribution amount the school will pay per student is $20,000.

Furthermore, to receive veterans benefits at Columbia, students must submit a Veterans Request for Certification for each term they’d like to receive benefits. This is not an automatic process at Columbia.

The Columbia Business School hosts the Military in Business Association (MiBA) veteran student group. This community offers support to Columbia’s veteran population by providing advocacy and skills development through their network of professionals.

#7: University of Pennsylvania

Penn’s prestigious Wharton School of Business allows for unlimited Yellow Ribbon Program availability for veterans in their MBA program. Additionally, Wharton students can receive up to $20,000 provided by Penn to match their VA contributions.

The VA provided Certificate of Eligibility must be submitted to the School Certifying Official, which is located in the Registrar’s office.

The Wharton Business School is also home to the Veterans Club, which offers community and support to its veteran student population. This is an important aspect of life at Wharton, where only about 5% of the students are veterans.

#6: Cornell University

All degree granting schools at Cornell University voluntarily participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program. For graduate students, there is a limit to the number of participants each year.

Veteran students must qualify for a 100% entitlement as demonstrated with their VA Certificate of Eligibility. To notify the school of your Yellow Ribbon eligibility, complete Cornell’s Yellow Ribbon program application.

Cornell University maintains a robust Military Community offering programs and services to military and veteran students.

#5: Northwestern University

Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management allows for unlimited participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program. It also has a maximum contribution of $18,000.

In addition to accepting every VA educational benefit, Northwestern also accepts the Illinois Veteran Grant and Tuition Assistance.

Moreover, the school hosts the Northwestern University Veterans Association, NUVA, which provides resources and support to its veteran students. Those resources include:

Check out Northwestern’s impressive page for Student Veterans’ Resources.

#4: Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins’ Carey Business School maintains the annual tuition cap of $10,000 for 25 eligible veteran students. The VA will match that $10,000 and apply it towards tuition.

Johns Hopkins eagerly directs their students with information about Scholarships for MBA Students to ensure their successful completion of their MBA program.

The Carey Student Veteran Network is a support group led by students to provide networking support to military and veteran students. The CSVN partners with local organizations like FourBlock, 6th Branch, the Mission Continues, and Team River Runner, to help veteran students transition into academic and professional success.

#3: Brown University

Brown’s annual Yellow Ribbon Program contribution to graduate veteran students is $7,500. This support also extends to spouses and dependents who are using the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

The Brown University Student Veterans Society (BUSVS) has helped foster a supportive veteran community since 2009. The BUSVS plays an integral part of raising awareness for issues faced by veterans in their student community.

Brown University is also home to PAVE, the Peer Advisors for Veteran Education group. This is a peer support program that connects new military-connected students with student veterans already on campus. This approach plugs veteran students into the pipeline of resources and support during their academic journey.

#2: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

MIT’s Sloan School of Management allows 30 students into their Yellow Ribbon Program. Sloan also offers up to $20,000 per student annually in their partnership with the VA.

The MIT Sloan Veterans Club helps veteran business students transition to academic life by offering support and counseling. It also offers access to exclusive networking and job opportunities.

#1: Harvard University

The Harvard Business School grants unlimited Yellow Ribbon access to veteran students in their MBA programs. The maximum contribution, which will also be matched by the VA, is $20,000 per year.

Harvard’s Armed Forces Alumni Association assists student veterans with professional development and job search resources. The club also helps raise awareness for the military-connected students on Harvard’s Business School campus.

From Battlefields to Business

Our nation’s veterans endure tremendous stress during their military service. It is not surprising that many veterans transition into the Business arena, for they have the grit and leadership skills necessary to succeed.

Earning an MBA, especially through any of these superb institutes of higher learning, will distinguish you from others in the business world. The VA’s Yellow Ribbon Program will assist with your education goals.

Get started on the path of your choosing today!

 

(Image courtesy of fizkes via Shutterstock)

 

10 Top Law Schools with Yellow Ribbon Programs

The Top Yellow Ribbon Law Schools

Not all colleges and universities are created equal. While attending college is a dream for most people, choosing where to apply can be a tough challenge.

For this reason, CollegeRecon compiled a list of the top 10 law schools that participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program, a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) initiative that can extend the duration of GI Bill benefits.

RELATED: Veteran’s Guide for Going to Law School

Choosing the Top 10

There are thousands of colleges in the United States, and sifting through them all is a huge undertaking. The Wall Street Journal 2022 College Ranking List formed the foundation of our analysis. Based on their results, we present to you the best schools that participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program.

Wall Street Journal’s Methodology

The Wall Street Journal’s College Ranking focuses on student success and learning achievement. The WSJ looks for key indicators that illuminate issues related to student engagement, interaction with teachers, and overall satisfaction with their education.

The methodology encompasses four important areas of analysis:

  1. Resources – “Does the college have the capacity to effectively deliver teaching?”
  2. Engagement – “Does the college effectively engage with students?”
  3. Outcomes – “Does the college generate good and appropriate outputs?”
  4. Environment – Is the college providing a good learning environment for all students?”

The results of their survey helped determine which schools were better than others relating to these key areas. For more information, read the full Wall Street Journal College Rankings 2022 methodology.

RELATED: Vet Success on Campus

CollegeRecon’s Top 10 Yellow Ribbon Law Schools

After sorting the schools by program, we eliminated the ones that did not participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program. So, the schools that follow are the top schools, in order of the WSJ ranking, that do participate in this VA program.

#10: Michigan State University

The Student Veterans Resource Center at MSU promotes educational and career advancement of military students. MSU ensures that veterans have the resources they need to get a quality education. These include:

  1. Financial Aid application support
  2. Transition services
  3. Career development
  4. Employment and Internship opportunities
  5. VA benefit and health assistance
  6. Space for meetings, studying, and socializing

Additionally, the MSU Disabled Veterans Assistance Program allows for “new and returning veterans with a military related disability who are Michigan residents working on their first baccalaureate degree” to qualify for a full-cost financial aid package without loans.

#9: University of California – Santa Barbara

The UCSB Veteran Resource Center exists to support Veterans in their transition and academically. They will help you apply for education benefits with the VA, find housing for you and your family, and offer general counseling during your academic career.

There is also an active Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter at UCSB. This great Veteran community is an invaluable resource on the path to your degree.

#8: Tulane University

The Student Veterans Services (SVS) office provides veteran students with assistance while attending school. Tulane’s SVS department also acts as a liaison between the student and the regional VA office.

In 2019 Tulane University implemented a requirement that all student veterans using VA education benefits must complete a mandatory Veterans Enrollment Form. A new form is required each semester, and it appears to be in addition to, not a replacement of, other reporting required by the VA.

#7: University of Richmond

This school offers a maximum of $5,000 to each of 25 student veterans for the school year. This is the amount that will be matched by the VA. The funds are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

For consideration, you must

  • Be accepted into a degree program, AND
  • Submit a Certificate of Eligibility from the VA to the School Certifying Official (SCO)

There doesn’t appear to be a specific office for assisting student veterans. The Yellow Ribbon Program contact is from the Registrar’s Office.

#6: University of Wisconsin – Madison

The University of Wisconsin Veteran Services (UVS) encourages their student veterans to apply for both the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Wisconsin GI Bill. 

Additionally, UW-Madison has their own Benefit Eligibility Survey that they recommend student veterans take. This survey gathers information and offers specific guidance to the student regarding federal and state benefits that may apply.

You will also need a Certificate of Eligibility to secure a spot in the Yellow Ribbon Program. Space is limited, but it will cover fees for non-resident students eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

#5: University of Miami

The office of Veteran Student Services helps veteran students transition from the service to campus life. The university offers services such as:

  • The UM Counseling Center – offers specific programs  to the veteran student population
  • The Toppel Career Center – offers specific veteran student programs and career advising
  • Academic Resource Center – offers tutoring services
  • Student Health Service – assists with medical and insurance needs

The UM Law School offers a maximum of 15 Yellow Ribbon grants per year. These grants apply to Fall and Spring semesters only.

#4: Boston University

Boston University Veterans Services acts as an intermediary between the university and the VA. Once you are certified, your eligibility will automatically be certified each semester, which is a great benefit.

Boston University accepts 52 Yellow Ribbon Program participants each year, totaling $7,000 each ($3,500 from BU plus $3,500 from the VA). Once all the slots are filled, BU opens a waitlist that is populated chronologically based on when the applications are submitted.

Please note, being placed on the waitlist does not guarantee acceptance into the program.

#3: University of California – Berkeley

UC Berkeley’s Veteran Benefits office is located in the Office of the Registrar. In addition to providing assistance to veteran students and their families, they assist eligible students apply for the California Department of Veterans Affairs College Fee Waiver (Cal Vet) program.

To be eligible as a graduate student, i.e. law school, you must meet basic requirements (undergrad degree and minimum 3.0 GPA). However, there are limited spots in the program, and there are tons of applicants. There are also departmental requirements that must be satisfied.

Check out the Cal Veteran Services Center for graduate students to view their recommendations and requirements.

#2: Northwestern University

Northwestern’s Pritzker School of Law allows for unlimited participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program. It also has a maximum contribution of $99,999, which is one big reason why Northwestern is at the top of our list.

In addition to accepting every VA educational benefit, Northwestern also accepts the Illinois Veteran Grant and Tuition Assistance.

Moreover, the school hosts the Northwestern University Veterans Association, NUVA, which provides resources and support to its veteran students. Those resources include:

Check out Northwestern’s impressive page for Student Veterans’ Resources.

#1: Harvard University

The Harvard Law School is one of the nation’s most prestigious schools, and it proudly participates in the VA’s Yellow Ribbon Program. This allows Harvard to offer additional funding to veterans for tuition and fees that exceed those covered by the GI Bill.

Harvard University has pledged to contribute the maximum amount matched by the Department of Veterans Affairs for all eligible veterans. For more information, check out Harvard’s VA and Military Benefits page.

Law School Within Reach

If you’ve dreamed of becoming a lawyer and legal professional, the schools listed above are the best ones that participate in the VA’s Yellow Ribbon Program. 

Furthermore, many of these schools offer benefits outside of the VA that can ensure you earn your coveted Juris Doctor or LLM. You can get there by using every benefit available to you!

(Image courtesy of r.classen via Shutterstock)

 

RELATED:

 

 

How to Pay for College as a Veteran

In America today, there are more opportunities for veterans seeking college education than at any time in history.  From education benefits earned through your service, to tuition assistance offered through some states, achieving your education goals is within your reach.  Read on to learn more about what is available to you.

Veterans Affairs Education and Training Benefits

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers education benefits to veterans, service members, and their qualified family members. These benefits include paying for tuition, assistance in finding a training program, or even career counseling.

The GI Bill

The GI Bill is one of the most cherished benefits that veterans have when leaving the service. Since 1944, the GI Bill has helped veterans pay for most or all of their education expenses. There are a few different versions of the GI Bill, and you may fall under more than one of them.

The Montgomery GI Bill

When I joined the Army in the mid-1990s, the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) was the education benefit most soldiers selected. It required a deduction of $100 per month for the first 12 months of service, and then continued service for at least two years to confirm your eligibility.

This version of the GI Bill is being phased out and replaced by another one, but it is still an option available to you if you had your pay reduced during your first year of service.

There are four categories within which you could qualify for this education benefit.

You may get up to 36 months of education benefits under the MGIB. The amount you get depends on the length of your service, the type of program you’re enrolled in, and your eligibility category.

The MGIB Selected Reserve

This program offers up to 36 months of education and training benefits. It was designed for members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard Reserve, the Army National Guard, and the Air National Guard.

There are a few eligibility requirements for those veterans seeking to take advantage of this benefit.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill

The Post-9/11 GI Bill helps a new generation of veterans pay for school or job training. It covers tuition and fees and provides money for housing, books and supplies. Unlike other education benefits, the Post-9/11 GI Bill does not expire if your service ended after January 1, 2013.

It is possible that you may be eligible for the Montgomery and Post-9/11 GI Bills. When I joined the service, the MGIB was the only option, so I had my pay reduced each month for the first year.

In 2012, I received word from my command that I had to pick either the MGIB or transfer my benefit to the newer Post-9/11 version. I opted to hold onto the MGIB because I’d already paid into it. I’d also participated in the $600 Buy-Up Program, which was designed to give me more money each month through the GI Bill payments.

Shortly after retiring in 2014, I found out that I was eligible for both benefits, but I was only able to use one at a time. Since the MGIB only granted 36 months of benefit, an additional year under the Post-9/11 GI Bill was authorized to me. Using them together, I was able to complete my degree program.

RELATED: Forever GI Bill

Other Opportunities to Pay for College

Yellow Ribbon Schools

If you have the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the If you have the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Yellow Ribbon Program may help pay tuition for a degree or training program. The amount available to you depends on the school, the degree type, and the academic program you’re considering.

This is one program that can make your education benefit last longer, go further, and get you more training.

Please go here for a list of Yellow Ribbon Schools which may help pay tuition for a degree or training program. The amount available to you depends on the school, as well as the degree type.

Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship

This scholarship allows some Veterans and dependents in high-demand fields to extend their Post-9/11 benefit. The Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship could net you up to 9 months, or $30,000, of added benefits.

Some of the high-demand fields covered by this scholarship include:

  • Biological or biomedical science
  • Computer science and IT programs
  • Various Engineering fields
  • Health care or related field
  • Mathematics or Statistics
  • Medical Residency (undergraduate only)

If you’re enrolled in one of these or other high-demand career fields, do not pass up this opportunity. Here’s a PDF of the full list eligible STEM degree programs.

Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses (VET TEC)

If you seek computer experience to start or advance your career in the IT industry, the VET TEC program could be your best bet.

If you meet the VET TEC eligibility requirements, you could get training in one of the following exciting career fields:

  • Computer software development
  • Data Processing
  • Information Science
  • Media Applications

Veteran Readiness and Employment

If you have a service-connected disability that limits your ability to work, or even one that prevents you from working, the Veteran Readiness and Employment may benefit you.

This program helps you explore employment options and address your training needs to ready yourself for employment.

This program has multiple tracks based on your future goals, but one of them does offer assistance with training and education.

The Employment Through Long-Term Services track can help you find training and education that can help you transition into a different field of employment.

Determine your eligibility, then apply for VR&E benefits.

National Call to Service Program

You may qualify for the National Call to Service program if you performed a period of national service. This program allows you to choose an education benefit as an alternative to the Montgomery GI Bill.

The eligibility requirements are very specific:

  • You completed Initial Entry Training
  • You served for 15 months in a military occupational specialty
  • Without a break in service, you served a period of active duty as determined by the Secretary of Defense, OR
  • You served a period of 24 months in active status while in the Selected Reserve
  • AND, without a break in service, you served the remainder of your obligated service on active duty, in the reserves, in the Individual Ready Reserves, or in AmeriCorps

If you meet the eligibility requirements, then you could receive:

  • A cash bonus of $5,000, OR
  • Repayment of qualifying student loans not more than $18,000, OR
  • Educational assistance equal to the 3-year monthly MGIB rate for 12 months, OR
  • Educational assistance equal to 50% of the less-than 3-year MGIB rate for 36 months

The Post-Vietnam Era Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)

Under this program, you may be able to continue your education by using part of your military pay to help cover school costs.

If you meet the eligibility requirements for VEAP, then you could secure money for tuition at VA-approved schools.

Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program

The Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program (VRRAP) offers education and training for high-demand jobs to veterans who are unemployed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

VRRAP covers education programs which are approved under the GI Bill and VET TEC programs that lead to high-demand jobs. These programs could include associate degrees, non-college degrees, and certificate programs.

For the purposes of this program, the Department of Labor (DOL) determines which jobs are considered high-demand.

If you’re eligible for VRRAP, you can get:

  • Up to 12 months of tuition and fees, AND
  • A monthly housing allowance based on Post-9/11 rates

Please note, at the time that you apply for VRRAP, you can NOT be eligible for any of the following benefits:

  • Post-9/11 GI Bill
  • MGIB
  • Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)
  • Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA)
  • Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)

States Offering Education Benefits for Veterans

In addition to the federal benefits covered above, many states offer education benefits to veterans. Some even cover the cost of tuition if certain criteria are met.

Conclusion

If you are a veteran and you are looking for ways to pay for education and training, there are so many programs out there to assist you.

Please look into any and all of these programs to get your journey started.

 

RELATED:

 

 

 

Post-9/11 GI Bill: The Ultimate Overview

There are several different versions of the GI Bill, but here we are discussing the Post-9/11 GI Bill.  About 80% of all users of the GI Bill utilize this version. To be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, you must have active military service on or after September 11, 2001.

Post-9/11 GI Bill: All the Ways You Can Use It

  • College Degrees – Associate, Bachelor, or higher
  • Vocational/Technical Training, including non-college programs
  • On-the-Job/Apprenticeship Programs
  • Licensing & Certification Reimbursement
  • National Testing Programs like SAT, CLEP, AP, DSST
  • Flight Training
  • Correspondence Training
  • Work-study
  • Tuition Assistance Top-Up
  • Tutorial Assistance

Going to College or University

Sure, you can use your GI Bill to go to college; everybody knows that.  Did you know that you can use your GI Bill to get an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, or higher?  If you have one degree, you can use your GI Bill to get another one.

If you are a bit rusty on your academic skills after being in the military, you can use your GI Bill for refresher training.

You can use your GI Bill at community colleges, state colleges, private colleges, online colleges, foreign colleges, and more.

What Costs Does the Post-9/11 GI Bill Cover?

    • Up to 100% Tuition and Fee Coverage
    • Monthly Housing Allowance (see GI Bill BAH Rates)
    • Up to $1,000 a year for Books and Supplies
    • Ability to Transfer GI Bill to spouse and dependents

Housing Allowance

If you go to a state school, the VA will pay all your tuition & fees for necessary classes. You will also be provided a monthly housing allowance.

    • The GI Bill BAH Rate is equivalent to the Basic Allowance for Housing rate that an E-5 with dependents would receive.
    • Your housing allowance rate is based on the ZIP code of the school you are attending.
    • You are not eligible for a housing allowance if you are on active duty.
    • The GI Bill pays you up to $1,000 each year for your books.

There are a few differences if you attend a private or foreign school. Your tuition reimbursement is limited to a legislatively mandated maximum amount that changes yearly.  The Post 911 GI Bill will currently pay up to a maximum of $26,381.37  for the 2022-2023 school year for private or foreign colleges. This is up from $25,162.14 for the 2020-2021 school year and $24,476.79 for the 2019-2020 academic year.

Yellow Ribbon Schools

Schools participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program have partnered with the VA to help offset the costs not covered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill.  Here is a list of participating Yellow Ribbon Schools.

If you attend a foreign school, your housing allowance is based on the national average US housing allowance.

One more thing, if you are going strictly to online classes – no classroom sessions – your housing allowance is ½ the national average.

The current MHA or Post 9/11 GI Bill BAH rate for online schools is $988.00 for the 2022-2023 academic year (Aug 1, 2022 – Jul 31, 2023).

If you attend school as a less than full-time student, you only get a percentage of your GI Bill. So, if you only attend classes as a half-time student, you get half of the housing allowance, etc.

Still not enough? If you served less than 3 years of active duty, your payment will be reduced too. But this doesn’t affect most people.

 

>> Use CollegeRecon’s Program Matcher to find GI Bill®-Approved Schools.  This tool will take your Education Goals and find schools with matching programs.  

 

Most people think the GI Bill means college and nothing else. Well, we are here to tell you that yes indeed, the GI Bill does pay for college, but it also pays for so much more.

Vocational/Technical School

Want to learn a trade or sharpen your technical skills?

The Post-9/11 GI Bill will help you. If you want to go to a technical or trade school to learn:

  • Radiology Technician
  • Computer Networking
  • Cake Decorating
  • Law Enforcement
  • Dental Hygiene
  • And many more…

The GI Bill will basically pay you the same amount as if you were going to college.

Testing Programs – SAT, LSAT, GMAT, LCAT

Need to take a test to get into college like the SAT, LSAT, GMAT, or LCAT? Want to take a test for college credit like the CLEP, DSST, or AP test?

RELATED: Colleges With GMAT Waivers For Military

The GI Bill will pay you up to $2,000 for each test. There’s no limit to the number of tests you can take, and it doesn’t matter if you pass or not. You can even retake tests you passed if the test is required to recertify or keep a license you need for work.

Certification & Licensing Programs

Looking to get a certification or license for a profession such as:

  • Realtor
  • Mechanic
  • Medical Technician
  • Therapist
  • Computer Network Engineer
  • Website Developer
  • Project Manager
  • Other professionals

The GI Bill has that covered and your tests may be reimbursable by the VA.  There is no limit to the number of tests you can take, or number of times you may take the same test. And, VA will pay for tests even if you fail them.

The VA will pay you up to $2,000 per test.

On-The-Job and Apprenticeship Training

Want to become a master of skilled trades or professions like union plumber, firefighter, steamfitter, electrician, or gunsmith?

The GI Bill will pay for approved apprenticeship or on-the-job training programs that allow you to get paid your GI Bill money while you draw a paycheck.

The payment process for these programs works a bit differently than other GI Bill programs.

When you are in an apprenticeship program you draw a salary. Usually, you start out with a very low rate of pay and get raises every six months while you are in training. Depending on your job, an apprenticeship can last 18-36 months until you reach fully qualified or journeyman status.

To offset this, the GI Bill payments are as follows:

  • 1st 6 months of training – 100% of your applicable housing allowance
  • 2nd 6 months you get 80% of your applicable housing allowance, but you get a raise from your employer
  • 3rd 6 months you get 60% of your applicable housing allowance, but you get another raise from your employer
  • 4th 6 months you will receive 40% of your applicable housing allowance, but you will get another raise from your employer
  • For the remainder of your training, you will get 20% of your applicable housing allowance

You also get up to $83 per month for books and supplies.

Flight Training

If you flew planes in the military, you might like to do that after you get out. The problem is that to fly commercial aircraft, you usually need platform-specific qualifications. These qualifications can be very expensive; for example, a B787 rating can cost you upwards of $30,000, depending on your current certification. The GI Bill will help you pay for those expensive classes.

To get a flight rating, you usually need classroom, simulator, and flight hours, this can vary. For example, if you’ve already qualified on the MH60 or UH60 helicopter, you may not need as many sim, flying, or classroom hours as somebody who has never flown one.

To get any GI Bill payments, you need to be in possession of a private pilot’s license and an FAA medical certification.

Flight School Payment Amounts

Payment amounts vary depending on what type of school you are going to.

If you are enrolled in a:

Degree program that consists of flight training at a state college

You can basically expect to get your full cost paid for by the GI Bill, a monthly housing allowance and a stipend for books-and-supplies. However, this is very rare as there aren’t a lot of state colleges offering flight training.

Degree program that consists of flight training at a private college

You can be reimbursed up to the full cost of the training or the legislatively mandated national maximum amount (whichever is less) each year. You may also receive a monthly housing allowance and books-and-supplies stipend.

Vocational flight training program

You can be reimbursed the cost of the training up to the annual maximum amount which is mandated by law. Currently, that annual maximum amount is $$15,075.05 in 2023, up from about $14,880.

Tuition Assistance Top-Up

If you’re on active duty, you may use Tuition Assistance. Tuition Assistance is a benefit paid to eligible members of the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard.

While Tuition Assistance technically can pay the full cost of your college tuition, in reality, most branches will normally pay a maximum of 75% of the actual tuition. You must pay for your books and other expenses out-of-pocket.

This is where Tuition Assistance Top-Up comes in. The Tuition Assistance Top-Up program will pay you your GI Bill to make up the difference between what Tuition Assistance pays and what your actual charges are.

Tuition Assistance Top-Up can be a good or a bad use of your GI Bill. Normally, it isn’t a good one and not one we’d recommend.

Using Tuition Assistance Top-Up is a good deal if you plan to use Tuition Assistance to complete a degree while on active duty, and don’t plan to continue your education after service.

Tuition Assistance Top-Up can also be helpful for just taking a few courses with Tuition Assistance while on active duty. Then you can save most of your GI Bill to use after you get out of the military to complete your education in a military friendly college.

You need to consider carefully your own situations, and check with your education officer or counselor, before applying for Tuition Assistance Top-Up.

Tutorial Assistance

OK, you’re going to college and having a hard time of it, in fact, you may be close to failing your classes, don’t despair. The GI Bill will even pay you to hire a tutor to help you get back on track with your classes.

The VA will pay you up to $100 a month for a private tutor, up to a maximum amount of $1,200. The tutor must meet the college’s qualifications and can’t be a close relative.

So, as you can see if you are eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill you have lots of different options on how you can use it. The GI Bill is a great benefit that most people don’t get, make sure you use it.

 

NEXT STEP: How to Get Your Post-911 GI Bill Benefits

 

RELATED:

 

 

Yellow Ribbon Schools & Programs List

What is the Yellow Ribbon Program?

Colleges and universities that participate in the Yellow Ribbon program will cover some or all of the costs above that which Post 9/11 GI Bill will pay. Check this list to find out if the school you hope to attend is one of the Yellow Ribbon schools.

What is a Yellow Ribbon School?

Yellow Ribbon Schools are colleges and universities that participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program.  Yellow Ribbon Schools make additional funds available for veteran students.  These additional funds help cover charges above what is covered by the GI Bill.  The costs would have to be covered by the veteran themselves.  The Yellow Ribbon funds can help veterans avoid out-of-pocket costs for tuition.

 

>> Take me to the list of Yellow Ribbon schools already!

 

The school can cover up to 50% of the tuition expenses that exceed the annual maximum cap. The VA then agrees to match the same amount that the school contributed. In some cases, this covers 100% of any additional cost. However, this is not always the case.

The Post 9/11 GI Bill will pay for all tuition and fees for a public school, and the lower of the actual tuition and fees or the national maximum per academic year for a private school.

However, what happens if you go to a school that costs more than what the GI Bill will provide? That is where the Yellow Ribbon Program can help.

Those who are attending a private school or a public school as a non-resident would benefit from the Yellow Ribbon Program. Your school will need to elect to participate in the program. If they do, the Yellow Ribbon Program will make additional funds available for your educational program without additional charges to your GI Bill entitlement.

Institutions of Higher Learning will enter in a Yellow Ribbon Agreement with the VA and will choose the amount of tuition and fees that will be given. The VA will then match that amount and will issue the payments directly to your school.

Yellow Ribbon Colleges and Universities

You may know that education expenses for tuition and fees may exceed the amount covered by the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Which means you could end up paying for things out of your own pocket.

Schools participating in the Yellow Ribbon program have joined with the VA to help offset any tuition expenses not covered by the GI Bill.

 

>> Start your search with our School Finder for schools participating in the Yellow Ribbon program.

 

Yellow Ribbon Schools List for 2023

(jump to a state)

Online

Alabama

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas

California

Colorado

Connecticut

Delaware

District of Columbia

Florida

Georgia

Hawaii

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Michigan

Minnesota

Mississippi

Missouri

Montana

Nebraska

Nevada

New Hampshire

New Jersey

New Mexico

New York

North Carolina

North Dakota

Ohio

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

South Carolina

South Dakota

Tennessee

Texas

Utah

Vermont

Virginia

Washington

Washington, DC

West Virginia

Wisconsin

Wyoming

Yellow Ribbon Schools By State

Alabama

Amridge University
Athens State University
Auburn University
Auburn University At Montgomery
Birmingham Southern College
Concordia College Alabama
Faulkner University
George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville
Heritage Christian University
Huntingdon College
Jacksonville State University
Judson College
Marion Military Institute
Samford University
Spring Hill College
Stillman College
Troy University
Troy University-Dothan Campus
Troy University-Montgomery Campus
University Of Alabama At Birmingham
University Of Alabama In Huntsville
University of Alabama – Tuscaloosa
University Of Mobile
University Of Montevallo
University Of South Alabama
Virginia College-Birmingham

Alaska

Albertus Magnus College

Arizona

Arizona State University-Tempe
Arizona Western College
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott
Northcentral University
Northern Arizona University
Northern Arizona University
Prescott College
University Of Arizona

Arkansas

Arkansas State University-Main Campus
Central Baptist College
Harding University
Lyon College
Mid-South Community College
Ouachita Baptist University
Ozarka College
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus
University Of Arkansas
University Of Arkansas At Little Rock
University Of The Ozarks
Williams Baptist College

California

Art Center College Of Design
Azusa Pacific University
Biola University
California Baptist University
California Lutheran University
Chapman University
Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science
Claremont Mckenna College
Coleman University
Columbia College-Hollywood
Concordia University-Irvine
Dominican School of Philosophy & Theology
Dominican University Of California
D’Youville College
Fresno Pacific University
Golden Gate University-San Francisco
Harvey Mudd College
Holy Names University
Hope International University
John F Kennedy University
La Sierra University
Loyola Marymount University
Marymount California University
Menlo College
Mills College
Mount St Mary’s College
Mt Sierra College
National University
Northwestern Polytechnic University
Occidental College
Otis College Of Art And Design
Pacific Oaks College
Pacific Union College
Pepperdine University
Pitzer College
Platt College – Los Angeles
Platt College – Ontario
Platt College – San Diego
Point Loma Nazarene University
Pomona College
Saint Mary’s College Of California
Samuel Merritt University
San Diego Christian College
San Francisco Art Institute
San Francisco Conservatory Of Music
San Joaquin Valley College-Visalia
Santa Clara University
Scripps College
Simpson University
Stanford University
The Art Institute Of California – Hollywood
The Master’s University and Seminary
University of California-Berkeley
University Of California-Davis
University Of California-Irvine
University Of California-Los Angeles
University Of California-Merced
University Of California-Riverside
University Of California-Santa Barbara
University Of La Verne
University Of Redlands
University Of San Diego
University Of San Francisco
University Of Southern California
University Of The Pacific
Vanguard University Of Southern California
Whittier College
William Jessup University
Woodbury University

Colorado

Adams State University
Arapahoe Community College
College America-Fort Collins
Colorado Christian University Online
Colorado College
Colorado Mesa University
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Colorado State University-Pueblo
Emily Griffith Technical College
Fort Lewis College
Johnson & Wales University-Denver
Jones International University
Naropa University
National American University
National American University: Denver
Platt College
Regis University
Trinidad State Junior College
University Of Colorado Boulder
University of Colorado Colorado Springs
University Of Colorado Denver
University Of Denver
University Of Northern Colorado
Western State Colorado University

Connecticut

Albertus Magnus College
Central Connecticut State University
Charter Oak State College
Connecticut College
Eastern Connecticut State University
Fairfield University
Goodwin College
Mitchell College
Post University
Quinnipiac University
Sacred Heart University
Southern Connecticut State University
Trinity College
University Of Bridgeport
University Of Hartford
University Of New Haven
University Of Saint Joseph
Wesleyan University
Western Connecticut State University
Yale University

Delaware

Delaware State University
Goldey-Beacom College
University Of Delaware
Wesley College

District of Columbia (D.C.)

American University
Catholic University Of America
Corcoran College Of Art And Design
Gallaudet University
George Washington University
Georgetown University
Trinity Washington University
University Of The District Of Columbia

Florida

Adventist University Of Health Sciences
Ave Maria University
Barry University
Beacon College
Bethune-Cookman University
Carlos Albizu University-Miami
Clearwater Christian College
Daytona State College
Eckerd College
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach
Everglades University
Florida Hospital College Of Health Sciences
Florida Institute Of Technology
Florida Institute Of Technology
Florida National University-Main Campus
Florida National University-South Campus
Florida Southern College
Florida Southern College
Florida Southwestern State College
Florida State University
Florida Technical College – Orlando
Hodges University
Jacksonville University
Johnson & Wales University-North Miami
Lynn University
Northwood University-Florida
Nova Southeastern University
Palm Beach Atlantic University
Rollins College
Saint Leo University
St Thomas University
State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota
Stetson University
The University of West Florida
University Of Central Florida
University Of Miami
University Of South Florida-Main Campus
University Of Tampa
Warner University
Webber International University

Georgia

Agnes Scott College
Albany State University
Andrew College
Armstrong Atlantic State University
Atlanta Metropolitan State College
Augusta University
Bauder College
Berry College
Brenau University
Clark Atlanta University
Clayton State University
College Of Coastal Georgia
Columbus State University
Covenant College
Emory University
Georgia Highlands College
Georgia Institute Of Technology-Main Campus
Georgia Perimeter College
Georgia State University
Kennesaw State University
Lagrange College
Life University
Mercer University
Mercer University-Cecil B. Day Campus
Middle Georgia State College-Cochran
Middle Georgia State University
Oglethorpe University
Piedmont College
Point University
Reinhardt University
Savannah College of Art and Design
Savannah College Of Art And Design-Atlanta
Savannah Technical College
Shorter University
Southern Polytechnic State University
Thomas University
Toccoa Falls College
Truett-Mcconnell College
University Of Georgia
University Of North Georgia
Wesleyan College
Young Harris College

Hawaii

Chaminade University Of Honolulu
Hawaii Community College
Hawaii Pacific University
Heald College-Honolulu
Honolulu Community College
Kapiolani Community College
Kauai Community College
Leeward Community College
University Of Hawaii At Hilo
University Of Hawaii At Manoa
University Of Hawaii Maui College
University Of Hawaii-West Oahu
Windward Community College

Idaho

Boise State University
Idaho State University
Lewis-Clark State College
North Idaho College
Northwest Nazarene University
The College of Idaho
University of Idaho

Illinois

Augustana College-Illinois
Aurora University
Benedictine University
Blackburn College
Bradley University
Chicago College Of Performing Arts – The Music Conservatory
Chicago State University
Columbia College-Chicago
Concordia University-Chicago
Depaul University
Dominican University
East-West University
Elmhurst College
Fox College
Greenville College
Harrington College of Design
Illinois College
Illinois Institute of Technology
Illinois Wesleyan University
Knox College
Lake Forest College
Lewis University
Loyola University Chicago
Macmurray College
Mckendree University
Millikin University
Monmouth College
National Louis University
North Central College
North Park University
Northwestern University
Olivet Nazarene University
Quincy University
Robert Morris University Illinois
Rockford University
Roosevelt University
Rosalind Franklin University Of Medicine And Science
Rush University
Saint Xavier University
Shimer College
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Trinity Christian College
Trinity International University-Illinois
University Of Chicago
University Of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign
University Of St Francis
Vatterott College
Wheaton College-Illinois

Indiana

Ancilla College
Anderson University-Indiana
Ball State University
Butler University
Calumet College of Saint Joseph
DePauw University
Franklin College
Goshen College
Grace College and Theological Seminary
Hanover College
Huntington University
Indiana Institute of Technology
Indiana State University
Indiana University-Bloomington
Indiana University-East
Indiana University-Kokomo
Indiana University-Northwest
Indiana University-Purdue University-Fort Wayne
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
Indiana University-South Bend
Indiana University-Southeast
Indiana Wesleyan University
Manchester University
Marian University-Indiana
Martin University
Oakland City University
Purdue University Northwest-Hammond
Purdue University-Main Campus
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Saint Josephs College
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Saint Mary’s College
Taylor University
Trine University
University of Evansville
University of Indianapolis
University Of Notre Dame
University Of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne
University of Southern Indiana
Valparaiso University
Vincennes University
Wabash College

Iowa

Allen College
Briar Cliff University
Buena Vista University
Central College
Clarke University
Coe College
Cornell College
Dordt College
Drake University
Grand View University
Grinnell College
Iowa State University
Iowa Wesleyan College
Loras College
Luther College
Maharishi University Of Management
Mercy College Of Health Sciences
Morningside College
Mount Mercy University
Northwestern College
Saint Ambrose University
Simpson College
St Luke’s College
University Of Dubuque
University Of Iowa
University Of Northern Iowa
Upper Iowa University
Waldorf College
Wartburg College
William Penn University

Kansas

Baker University
Benedictine College
Bethany College-Kansas
Bethel College-North Newton
Central Christian College Of Kansas
Dodge City Community College
Donnelly College
Emporia State University
Fort Hays State University
Friends University
Kansas State University
Kansas Wesleyan University
Manhattan Christian College
Mcpherson College
Midamerica Nazarene University
Newman University
Pittsburg State University
Sterling College-Kansas
Tabor College
University Of Kansas
University Of Saint Mary
Vatterott College
Washburn University
Wichita State University

Kentucky

Bellarmine University
Berea College
Campbellsville University
Centre College
Daymar College – Bowling Greene
Eastern Kentucky University
Georgetown College
Kentucky State University
Kentucky Wesleyan College
Lindsey Wilson College
Mid-Continent University
Midway University
Morehead State University
Murray State University
Northern Kentucky University
Saint Catharine College
Spalding University
Sullivan College Of Technology And Design
Thomas More College
Transylvania University
Union College-Kentucky
University Of Kentucky
University Of Louisville
University Of Pikeville
University Of The Cumberlands
Western Kentucky University

Louisiana

Baton Rouge Community College
Centenary College Of Louisiana
Louisiana State University-Baton Rouge
Louisiana State University-Shreveport
Loyola University New Orleans
McNeese State University
Nicholls State University
Southeastern Louisiana University
Tulane University Of Louisiana
University Of Louisiana At Lafayette
University Of Louisiana At Monroe
University Of New Orleans

Maine

Bates College
Bowdoin College
Central Maine Community College
Colby College
Husson University
Kennebec Valley Community College
Maine College Of Art
Maine Maritime Academy
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Thomas College
Unity College
University Of Maine
University of Maine at Augusta
University Of Maine At Farmington
University Of Maine At Fort Kent
University Of Maine At Machias
University Of New England
University Of Southern Maine

Maryland

Anne Arundel Community College
College Of Southern Maryland
Coppin State University
Frederick Community College
Frostburg State University
Goucher College
Hood College
John Hopkins University-Peabody Conservatory Of Music
Johns Hopkins University
Loyola University Maryland
Maryland Institute College Of Art
Mcdaniel College
Morgan State University
Mount St Mary’s University
Notre Dame Of Maryland University
Salisbury University
St Johns College
St Mary’s College Of Maryland
Stevenson University
Stratford University
University Of Baltimore
University Of Maryland-Baltimore County
University Of Maryland-College Park
University Of Maryland-University College
Washington Adventist University
Washington Bible College
Washington College

Massachusetts

American International College
Amherst College
Anna Maria College
Assumption College
Babson College
Becker College
Benjamin Franklin Institute Of Technology
Bentley University
Berklee College Of Music
Berkshire Community College
Boston Architectural College
Boston Baptist College
Boston College
Boston University
Brandeis University
Bridgewater State University
Clark University
College Of Our Lady Of The Elms
College Of The Holy Cross
Curry College
Dean College
Eastern Nazarene College
Emerson College
Emmanuel College-Massachusetts
Endicott College
Fisher College
Franklin W Olin College Of Engineering
Gordon College
Hampshire College
Harvard University
Holyoke Community College
Lasell College
Lesley University
Marian Court College
Massachusetts Institute Of Technology
Massachusetts Maritime Academy
MCPHS University
Merrimack College
Middlesex Community College-Massachusetts
Montserrat College Of Art
Mount Holyoke College
Mount Ida College
Mount Wachusett Community College
New England Institute Of Art The
Newbury College
Nichols College
Northeastern University
Pine Manor College
Quincy College
Regis College
Salem State University
School Of The Museum Of Fine Arts-Boston
Simmons College
Smith College
Springfield College
Springfield Technical Community College
Stonehill College
Suffolk University
The New England Conservatory of Music
Tufts University
University Of Massachusetts-Amherst
University Of Massachusetts-Boston
University Of Massachusetts-Lowell
Wentworth Institute Of Technology
Western New England University
Westfield State University
Wheaton College-Massachusetts
Wheelock College
Williams College
Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Michigan

Adrian College
Albion College
Aquinas College
Baker College Online
Calvin College
Central Michigan University
Cleary University
College For Creative Studies
Concordia University-Ann Arbor
Cornerstone University
Davenport University
Eastern Michigan University
Finlandia University
Grand Valley State University
Hope College
Kalamazoo College
Kettering University
Kuyper College
Lake Superior State University
Lawrence Technological University
Madonna University
Michigan State University
Michigan Technological University
Northern Michigan University
Northwestern Michigan College
Northwood University-Michigan
Oakland University
Rochester College
Saginaw Valley State University
Siena Heights University
Spring Arbor University
University Of Detroit Mercy
University Of Michigan-Ann Arbor
University Of Michigan-Dearborn
University Of Michigan-Flint
Walsh College Of Accountancy And Business Administration
Wayne State University
Western Michigan University

Minnesota

Augsburg College
Bethany Lutheran College
Bethel University
Carleton College
College Of Saint Benedict
College Of Visual Arts
Concordia College At Moorhead
Concordia University-Saint Paul
Dunwoody College Of Technology
Gustavus Adolphus College
Hamline University
Macalester College
Minneapolis College Of Art And Design
Saint Johns University
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
St Catherine University
St Olaf College
The College Of Saint Scholastica
University Of Minnesota-Crookston
University Of Minnesota-Duluth
University of Minnesota-Morris
University Of Minnesota-Twin Cities
University Of Northwestern-St Paul
University Of St Thomas (MN)
Winona State University

Mississippi

Belhaven University
Itawamba Community College
Millsaps College
Mississippi College
Mississippi Delta Community College
Mississippi State University
Mississippi University For Women
University Of Mississippi
University of Southern Mississippi

Missouri

Avila University
Central Methodist University-College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
College Of The Ozarks
Columbia College (MO)
Culver-Stockton College
Drury University
Evangel University
Fontbonne University
Jefferson College
Kansas City Art Institute
Lindenwood University
Logan University
Maryville University Of Saint Louis
Missouri Baptist University
Missouri Southern State University
Missouri State University-Springfield
Missouri University Of Science And Technology
Missouri Western State University
Park University
Ranken Technical College
Rockhurst University
Saint Louis Christian College
Saint Louis University
Southwest Baptist University
St Louis College Of Pharmacy
Stephens College
Truman State University
University of Missouri-Columbia
University of Missouri-Kansas City
University of Missouri-St Louis
Washington University In St Louis
Webster University
Westminster College-Missouri
William Woods University

Montana

Carroll College
Dawson Community College
Great Falls College Montana State University
Miles Community College
Montana State University
Montana State University-Billings
Montana State University-Northern
Montana Tech Of The University Of Montana
Rocky Mountain College
The University of Montana
The University Of Montana-Western
University Of Great Falls

Nebraska

Bellevue University
Chadron State College
Clarkson College
College Of Saint Mary
Concordia University-Nebraska
Creighton University
Doane College-Crete
Grace University
Hastings College
Midland University
Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
Nebraska Wesleyan University
Peru State College
Union College-Nebraska
University Of Nebraska At Kearney
University Of Nebraska At Omaha
University Of Nebraska Medical Center
University Of Nebraska-Lincoln
Wayne State College
York College

Nevada

Sierra Nevada College
University Of Nevada-Las Vegas

New Hampshire

Colby-Sawyer College
Dartmouth College
Franklin Pierce University
Granite State College
New England College
Saint Anselm College
Southern New Hampshire University
University of New Hampshire at Manchester
University of New Hampshire-Durham

New Jersey

Bloomfield College
Caldwell University
Centenary College
College of Saint Elizabeth
Drew University
Fairleigh Dickinson University-College at Florham
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus
Felician University
Georgian Court University
Kean University
Monmouth University
Montclair State University
New Jersey City University
Pillar College
Princeton University
Ramapo College Of New Jersey
Rider University
Rowan University
Rutgers University-Camden
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Rutgers University-Newark
Saint Peter’s University
Seton Hall University
Stockton University
The College Of New Jersey
William Paterson University

New Mexico

St John’s College
University of The Southwest

New York

Adelphi University
Alfred State SUNY College of Technology
Alfred University
Canisius College
Cazenovia College
Clarkson University
Colgate University
College Of Mount Saint Vincent
Columbia University In The City Of New York
Concordia College-New York
Cooper Union For The Advancement Of Science And Art
Cooper Union For The Advancement Of Science And Engineering
Cornell University
CUNY City College
Daemen College
Dominican College Of Blauvelt
Dowling College
D’Youville College
Elmira College
Finger Lakes Community College
Fordham University
Fulton-Montgomery Community College
Hartwick College
Hilbert College
Hobart William Smith Colleges
Hofstra University
Houghton College
Hudson Valley Community College
Iona College
Ithaca College
Keuka College
Le Moyne College
Liu Brooklyn
Liu Post
Manhattan College
Manhattanville College
Marist College
Marymount Manhattan College
Medaille College
Mercy College
Metropolitan College Of New York
Molloy College
Mount Saint Mary College
Nazareth College
New York Institute Of Technology
New York University
Niagara County Community College
Niagara University
Nyack College
Pace University-New York
Pace University-Westchester
Paul Smiths College
Polytechnic Institute Of New York University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Roberts Wesleyan College
Sage College Of Albany
Saint John Fisher College
Saint Joseph’s College-New York
Saint Joseph’s College-Patchogue
Sarah Lawrence College
Siena College
Skidmore College
St Bonaventure University
St Francis College
St John’s University-New York
St Lawrence University
St Thomas Aquinas College
Suny At Binghamton
Suny College At Cortland
Suny College At Plattsburgh
Suny College Of Environmental Science And Forestry
SUNY College of Technology at Canton
SUNY College of Technology at Delhi
Syracuse University
The College Of New Rochelle
The College Of Saint Rose
The Culinary Institute Of America
The Juilliard School
The New School
The Sage Colleges
Touro College
Trocaire College
Union College-New York
University At Buffalo
University Of Rochester
Utica College
Vassar College
Vaughn College Of Aeronautics And Technology
Wagner College
Yeshiva University

North Carolina

Barton College
Belmont Abbey College
Brevard College
Campbell University
Catawba College
Chowan University
Craven Community College
Davidson College
Duke University
East Carolina University
Elon University
Gardner-Webb University
Greensboro College
Guilford College
High Point University
Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte
Lees-Mcrae College
Lenoir-Rhyne University
Livingstone College
Mars Hill University
Mcdowell Technical Community College
Meredith College
Methodist University
Montreat College
North Carolina A & T State University
North Carolina Central University
North Carolina State University At Raleigh
North Carolina Wesleyan College
Pfeiffer University
Pitt Community College
Queens University Of Charlotte
Saint Augustine’s University
Sandhills Community College
St Andrews University
University Of Mount Olive
University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill
University Of North Carolina At Charlotte
University Of North Carolina At Greensboro
Wake Forest University
Wake Technical Community College
William Peace University
Wingate University
Winston-Salem State University

North Dakota

North Dakota State University-Main Campus
University Of Jamestown
University Of Mary
University Of North Dakota

Ohio

Antioch College
Antioch University-Midwest
Ashland University
Baldwin Wallace University
Bluffton University
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
Capital University
Case Western Reserve University
Cedarville University
Cleveland Institute of Art
Cleveland Institute of Music
Cleveland State University
Columbus College of Art and Design
Defiance College
Denison University
Franciscan University of Steubenville
Franklin University
Heidelberg University
Hiram College
John Carroll University
Kenyon College
Lake Erie College
Lourdes University
Malone University
Marietta College
Miami University-Middletown
Miami University-Oxford
Mount Saint Joseph University
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Muskingum University
Notre Dame College
Oberlin College
Ohio Christian University
Ohio Dominican University
Ohio Northern University
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Ohio Wesleyan University
Otterbein University
The College of Wooster
The University of Findlay
Tiffin University
Union Institute & University
University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College
University of Cincinnati-Clermont College
University of Cincinnati-Online
University of Dayton
University of Mount Union
University of Northwestern Ohio
University of Rio Grande
University of Toledo
Urbana University
Ursuline College
Walsh University
Wilmington College
Wittenberg University
Wright State University-Main Campus
Xavier University

Oklahoma

Cameron University
Langston University
Mid-America Christian University
Northeastern State University
Northern Oklahoma College
Oklahoma Baptist University
Oklahoma Christian University
Oklahoma City University
Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
Oklahoma Wesleyan University
Oral Roberts University
Saint Gregory’s University
Southern Nazarene University
University of Central Oklahoma
University of Oklahoma-Health Sciences Center
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus
University of Tulsa

Oregon

Concordia University-Portland
Corban University
Eastern Oregon University
George Fox University
Lewis & Clark College
Linfield College-Mcminnville Campus
Multnomah University
Northwest Christian University
Oregon College Of Art And Craft
Oregon Institute Of Technology
Oregon State University
Pacific Northwest College Of Art
Pacific University
Portland State University
University Of Oregon
University Of Portland
Warner Pacific College
Western Oregon University
Willamette University

Pennsylvania

Albright College
Allegheny College
Alvernia University
Arcadia University
Bryn Mawr College
Bucknell University
Bucks County Community College
Cabrini University
Carlow University
Carnegie Mellon University
Cedar Crest College
Chatham University
Chestnut Hill College
Community College Of Beaver County
Delaware Valley College
Desales University
Dickinson College
Drexel University
Duquesne University
East Stroudsburg University Of Pennsylvania
Eastern University
Elizabethtown College
Franklin And Marshall College
Gannon University
Geneva College
Gettysburg College
Gwynedd Mercy University
Harrisburg Area Community College-Harrisburg
Holy Family University
Immaculata University
Indiana University Of Pennsylvania-Main Campus
Johnson College
Juniata College
Keystone College
King’s College-Pennsylvania
Kutztown University Of Pennsylvania
La Roche College
La Salle University
Lackawanna College
Lafayette College
Lebanon Valley College
Lehigh University
Lincoln University Of Pennsylvania
Lock Haven University
Lycoming College
Manor College
Mansfield University Of Pennsylvania
Marywood University
Mercyhurst University
Messiah College
Misericordia University
Montgomery County Community College
Moore College Of Art And Design
Moravian College
Mount Aloysius College
Muhlenberg College
Neumann University
Peirce College
Pennsylvania College Of Technology
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Abington
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Beaver
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Dubois
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Fayette- Eberly
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Greater Allegheny
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Hazleton
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Lehigh Valley
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Mont Alto
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State New Kensington
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Schuylkill
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Shenango
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Wilkes-Barre
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Worthington Scranton
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State York
Philadelphia University
Point Park University
Robert Morris University-Pennsylvania
Rosemont College
Saint Francis University
Saint Joseph’s University
Saint Vincent College
Seton Hill University
Susquehanna University
Swarthmore College
Temple University
The University Of The Arts
Thiel College
University Of Pennsylvania
University Of Pittsburgh-Bradford
University Of Pittsburgh-Greensburg
University Of Pittsburgh-Johnstown
University Of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
University Of Pittsburgh-Titusville
University Of Scranton
University Of The Sciences
Ursinus College
Valley Forge Military College
Villanova University
Washington & Jefferson College
Waynesburg University
West Chester University Of Pennsylvania
Westminster College-Pennsylvania
Widener University-Main Campus
Wilkes University
Wilson College
York College Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

Brown University
Johnson & Wales University-Providence
New England Institute of Technology
Providence College
Rhode Island School of Design
Roger Williams University
Salve Regina University

South Carolina

Anderson University-South Carolina
Charleston Southern University
Citadel Military College of South Carolina
Claflin University
Clemson University
Coastal Carolina University
Coker College
College of Charleston
Columbia International University
Erskine College
Francis Marion University
Furman University
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
Limestone College
Newberry College
Presbyterian College
Southern Wesleyan University
Technical College Of The Lowcountry
University of South Carolina-Aiken
University of South Carolina-Beaufort
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Winthrop University
Wofford College

South Dakota

Augustana College-South Dakota
Dakota Wesleyan University
Mount Marty College
University Of Sioux Falls

Tennessee

Austin Peay State University
King University
Le Moyne-Owen College
Lee University
Lincoln Memorial University
Lipscomb University
Martin Methodist College
Maryville College
Memphis College Of Art
Milligan College
Rhodes College
Southern Adventist University

Texas

Abilene Christian University
Angelo State University
Austin College
Austin Graduate School Of Theology
Baylor University
Central Texas College
Concordia University-Texas
Dallas Baptist University
Del Mar College
East Texas Baptist University
Hallmark University
Hardin-Simmons University
Houston Baptist University
Howard Payne University
Letourneau University
Lubbock Christian University
McMurry University
Our Lady Of The Lake University
Rice University
Saint Edward’s University
Schreiner University
Southern Methodist University
Southwestern Assemblies Of God University
Southwestern University
St Mary’s University
Texas A & M University-Texarkana
Texas Christian University
Texas Lutheran University
Texas Tech University
Texas Wesleyan University
The University Of Texas At El Paso
Trinity University
University Of Dallas
University Of Mary Hardin-Baylor
University Of St Thomas (TX)
University Of The Incarnate Word
Wayland Baptist University
Wiley College

Utah

Dixie State University
Independence University
Salt Lake Community College
Southern Utah University
Stevens-Henager College-Murray
University Of Utah
Utah State University
Utah State University-Eastern
Western Governors University
Westminster College-Utah

Vermont

Bennington College
Burlington College
Castleton State College
Champlain College
College Of St Joseph
Community College Of Vermont
Goddard College
Green Mountain College
Landmark College
Lyndon State College
Marlboro College
Middlebury College
Norwich University
Saint Michael’s College
Southern Vermont College
University Of Vermont
Vermont Technical College

Virginia

Bluefield College
Bridgewater College
Christendom College
College Of William And Mary
Eastern Mennonite University
Emory & Henry College
Ferrum College
George Mason University
Hampden-Sydney College
Hampton University
Hollins University
Jefferson College Of Health Sciences
Liberty University
Lynchburg College
Mary Baldwin College
Marymount University
Old Dominion University
Radford University
Randolph College
Randolph-Macon College
Regent University
Roanoke College
Shenandoah University
Southern Virginia University
Sweet Briar College
University Of Richmond
University Of Virginia-Main Campus
Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute And State University
Virginia Wesleyan College
Washington And Lee University

Washington

Antioch University-Seattle
Bastyr University
City University Of Seattle
Columbia Basin College
Cornish College Of The Arts
Gonzaga University
Pacific Lutheran University
Pierce College at Fort Steilacoom
Pierce College At Puyallup
Saint Martin’s University
Seattle Pacific University
Seattle University
The Evergreen State College
Trinity Lutheran College
University Of Puget Sound
Walla Walla Community College
Walla Walla University
Washington State University
Western Washington University
Whitman College
Whitworth University

West Virginia

Alderson Broaddus University
Bethany College-West Virginia
Blue Ridge Community And Technical College
Bluefield State College
BridgeValley Community & Technical College
Davis & Elkins College
Eastern West Virginia Community And Technical College
Glenville State College
Marshall University
Mountain State College
New River Community And Technical College
Ohio Valley University
Shepherd University
Southern West Virginia Community And Technical College
University Of Charleston, West Virginia
West Liberty University
West Virginia Northern Community College
West Virginia State University
West Virginia University
West Virginia University At Parkersburg
West Virginia University Institute of Technology
West Virginia Wesleyan College
Wheeling Jesuit University

Wisconsin

University Of Wisconsin-Fond Du Lac
Upper Iowa University-Blackhawk Center
Upper Iowa University-Madison Center
Upper Iowa University-Milwaukee Center
Upper Iowa University-Prairie Du Chien Center
Upper Iowa University-Wausau Center

Wyoming

Casper College

Online Yellow Ribbon Schools

American Military University
Cairn University
Colorado Christian University Online
Columbia Southern University
Concorde Career College
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide
Fort Hays State University
Indiana Tech
Indiana Wesleyan University
John Patrick University of Health & Applied Sciences
Kansas State University Online
Norwich University Online
Post University Online
Southern New Hampshire University Online
Taylor University Online
University of Cincinnati – Online
University of Louisville Online
Western Governors University

 

All Public Universities Now Offer In-State Tuition for Veterans

It is important to note that all public universities offer in-state tuition for veterans for up to 3 years after discharge.  As a result, the primary benefit of the program is reserved for those looking to attend a participating private school where the cost exceeds the Post 911 GI Bill.

Are You Eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program?

You will need to be eligible for the maximum benefit rate under the Post 9/11 GI Bill, this includes:

  • Having served 36 months (may be aggregate) on active duty
  • If you have received the Purple Heart with an honorable discharge and any amount of service
  • You were discharged after 60 days with a service-connected disability and also served 30 continuous days after September 10, 2001
  • You are a child using transferred benefits
  • If you are a child using transferred benefits and your service member transfer is at the 100% level

Only Veterans entitled to the maximum benefit rate, as determined by service requirements, or their designated transferees are eligible to receive funding from the Department of Veterans Affairs and participating institutions.

The school must not have also offered the Yellow Ribbon Program to more than the maximum amount of people as stated in the participation agreement.  Your school must also certify your enrollment to the VA and provide Yellow Ribbon Program information.

Active duty service members and their spouses are not eligible for this program.

How Do I Know If a School Is a Yellow Ribbon Program Participant?

You can view which military-friendly colleges and schools are participating on our Yellow Ribbon Schools list.

Also, within the CollegeRecon School Search tool, you can select Yellow Ribbon as one of your filter criteria.

Do You Automatically Receive the Yellow Ribbon Program Benefits?

No, not in all cases.  Even if you qualify and your school participates in the yellow ribbon program, the answer may still be no.

In addition, there could be limits.  The school may limit which degree programs the Yellow Ribbon program applies to.  Or the school may limit the amount of students that can receive the Yellow Ribbon benefits at your school. In this case it is determined on a first-come, first-served basis.  Your best bet is to apply through your school as soon as you can do so.

What Else Do I Need to Know About the Program?

Schools can have the flexibility to designate the number of students and contributions based on the student’s status.  This means that the school could have different availability and amounts for:

  • Undergraduates
  • Graduates
  • Doctoral students

And different amounts for the different schools the institution has – college or professional schools.

Just because you were able to get the Yellow Ribbon Program benefits one year, it doesn’t mean you will 100% get them the next year.

Criteria for Continuing with the Yellow Ribbon Program

The agreements between the school and the VA need to be in effect for each year. If your school is still a part of the program, then you will need to have these things to continue with the program:

  • Must maintain satisfactory progress in your educational program.
  • Remain continuously enrolled per the school’s policy.
  • Have remaining entitlement with your Post 9/11 GI Bill.
  • If you want to transfer to another school, that school will also need to be participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program and accept your application. Just because the first school let you into the program, that doesn’t mean the second school has to.
  • Not all of your tuition and fees will be covered with the Yellow Ribbon Program. This all depends on the school’s agreement with the VA.
  • The fees included with the Yellow Ribbon Program would be all mandatory fees for the program you are in. Fees such as room and board, or any other non-mandatory fees are not included.
  • You do not have to attend school full-time to be in the Yellow Ribbon Program.
  • In some cases, you can receive funds during the summer term if your school has them available.

How Do You Apply?

After you submit an application for the Post 9/11 GI Bill, and you are eligible at the 100% benefit level, the VA will issue you a Certificate of Eligibility and advise you that you are potentially eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program. You can then apply for the program at your school with that Certificate, and they will determine if there are spots available. Your school will notify you if you have been approved for the program.

The Yellow Ribbon Program can be a great way to get the education that you need and to be able to have everything paid for. See if your school or a potential school has the program, and apply if you are eligible to receive the benefit.

Yellow Ribbon Schools: 3 Quick-ish Facts

However, when it comes to your unique situation, the Yellow Ribbon program may not apply.

What do we mean?

Here are a few facts to help you understand how a school’s participation in the Yellow Ribbon program may or may not be important to your situation.

#1 Applies Differently

For eligible students, if you wish to attend a public school, 100% of your in-state tuition is covered under both the original Post 9/11 GI Bill and the current “Forever GI Bill.”

Who’s Eligible?

    • Veterans enrolling within 3 years of discharge or their dependents
    • Fry Scholarship recipients enrolling within 3 years of their parent’s date of death
    • 100% online programs at public schools may charge a higher non-resident rate if the GI Bill recipient doesn’t live in-state.
    • GI Bill recipients will lose their eligibility if a second or subsequent enrollment is more than 3 years from the date of discharge in the cases where they:
      • stop using their GI Bill for at least a semester (not a summer semester)
      • transfer schools and lose more than 12 credit hours in the transfer
    • GI Bill recipients who were originally within the 3-year time period when they started school before July 2, 2015, but are now past their 3-year eligibility are not covered or “grandfathered” with this program. They still have to pay the non-resident rate unless the school has made an exception.
    • Active duty service members and their spouses and children are not eligible while they are serving.

The Yellow Ribbon program would apply to your situation if you’re attending a:

    • Private school where the costs exceed the GI Bill payment limit
    • Public school as a non-resident and are ineligible based on the criteria above where the tuition cost exceeds the GI Bill payment limit

BUT, even then…

#2 You May Not Be 100% Covered

The VA and the school predetermine the amount covered by the Yellow Ribbon – it may not fully cover your out-of-pocket cost.

The Yellow Ribbon agreement between the VA and the school sets:

    • The maximum value of the coverage
    • The maximum number of veterans that can use the program at any given time
    • Which majors and degree programs are covered

As such, it does not cover all students, nor does it cover the full amount in all cases.

You’ll need to get more details like:

    • How much of the tuition cost is covered?
    • Are there open slots for you to take advantage of the program?

#3: You Must Be Eligible

You must be eligible for the maximum benefit rate under the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

You are eligible if one of the following applies to you:

    • Served 36 months on active duty
    • Received the Purple Heart and an honorable discharge (with any length of service)
    • Were discharged after 60 days with a service-connected disability and served 30 continuous days after Sept. 10, 2001
    • Are a dependent using transferred benefits

In addition, the school must:

    • Agree to participate in the Program
    • Have not offered Yellow Ribbon to more than the maximum number of individuals as stated in their participation agreement
    • Certify your enrollment to VA and provide Yellow Ribbon Program information

Active duty service members and active duty spouses are not eligible.

While it is good to research Yellow Ribbon schools, you shouldn’t necessarily make it a determining factor when searching for a school. The fact is that you may eliminate an excellent school based on a program that may not even apply to your situation.

 

RELATED:

 

 

17 Most Important Veteran Education Benefits

Most Important Veteran Education Benefits

If you’re a veteran who’s going back to school, or still active duty looking to get your degree, veteran benefit programs can be confusing. There are a lot of considerations in your choice of schools.

But how do you know which not-for-profit schools provide the best veteran- and military-friendly programs for students?

CollegeRecon identifies the 17 key veteran benefits programs that are available on campuses to assist veterans and active-duty military. These benefits are available at community colleges, colleges and universities.

BAH: Basic Allowance for Housing

The Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) payments you receive for the Post 9/11 GI Bill are based on the military’s Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates for an E-5 with dependents. The Department of Defense adjusts the BAH every calendar year (or January 1) based on changes to housing osts across the country. BAH rates for online colleges, schools, or distance learning programs is $871. BAH is not paid during summer or winter breaks, but Spring Break counts. Dropping courses can negatively affect BAH payments.

SVA Chapter

SVA chapters are student-veteran groups that have formed on college and university campuses to provide peer-to-peer networks for veterans who are attending those schools. The chapters are designed to be advocates for student veterans, and to help bridge the campus-to-career transition.

Full-Time Veteran Counselor on Campus

A full-time veteran counselor is on campus to offer support and assistance for any array of student-veteran issues. These counselors will assist veterans in a number of ways, including helping them determine which services they need to succeed, and then directing how to engage them.

Signed VA Principles of Excellence

Educational institutions participating in the Principles of Excellence program agree to follow a set of guidelines pertaining to student-veteran issues. Examples of these guidelines include: Providing students with a personalized form covering the total cost of an education program and designating a point-of-contact for academic and financial advising.

Club/Association for Veterans

These institutions offer student-veteran clubs and associations on their campuses.

Veterans Upward Bound Program

The Veterans Upward Bound Program is designed to motivate and assist veterans in the development of academic and other requisite skills necessary for acceptance and success in a program of post-secondary education. The program provides assessment and enhancement of basic skills through counseling, mentoring, tutoring, and academic instruction in the core subject areas.

8 Keys To Veterans’ Success

The 8 Keys to Veterans’ Success are steps that post-secondary institutions can take to assist veterans and service members in transitioning to higher education, completing their college programs, and obtaining career-ready skills. Schools participating in the 8 Keys to Veterans’ Success pledge to make a real investment in their veteran students. This program should be a difference maker if the institution has followed through with their promise. Unfortunately no one polices the program to ensure the school is adhering to the program’s standards.

Offers ROTC Program

The Reserve Officers’ Training Corps is one of the best opportunities for you to get an invaluable experience while you earn a college degree. When enrolled in ROTC you learn and develop leadership skills and prepare for a career as an officer in the U.S. Military. You will learn first-hand what it takes to lead others, motivate groups, and how to conduct missions as a military officer.  Find schools for Army ROTC, Navy ROTC, and Air Force ROTC.

ACE Credit For Military Experience

The ACE Military Evaluations Program evaluates formal military training in terms of academic credit, allowing thousands of military personnel to earn credit for college-level learning acquired in the military. Your Joint Service Transcript (JST) may be sent as an official document to colleges and universities, at the student’s request, for use in the credential evaluation process.

Follow ACE Standards For Credit

ACE’s Military Guide presents credit recommendations for formal courses and occupations offered by all branches of the military. All recommendations for college credits for military experience approval are based on ACE reviews conducted by college and university faculty members who are actively teaching in the areas they review.

Awards Credit For CLEP Exam

The CLEP exams allow veterans to receive college credit by earning qualifying scores on any one or more of 34 assessments, allowing them to move directly into higher-level courses, saving time and money.

Awards Credit For DSST Exam

DSST (formerly DANTES) are also credit-by-examination tests. Whereas CLEP tests are almost exclusively used for lower-level credit at regionally accredited institutions, DSST’s are available for both upper and lower level credit.

In-State Tuition Extended for Active Duty

These institutions charge active duty veterans, regardless of their actual state of residence, no more than the in-state tuition rate for a resident of the state.

Approved for TA Funding

Military Tuition Assistance (TA) is a benefit paid to eligible members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard. Congress has given each service the ability to pay up to 100% of the tuition expenses for its members. Each service has its own criteria for eligibility, obligated service, application process and restrictions. This money is usually paid directly to the institution by the individual services.

Yellow Ribbon Program

Tuition & fees may exceed the amount the Post 9/11 GI Bill will pay if you are attending a private school, or are attending a public school as a nonresident student. Institutions recognized as Yellow Ribbon Schools make additional funds available for your education program without an additional charge to your GI Bill entitlement.

RELATED: List of Yellow Ribbon Schools

Scholarships for Military

Apply for a military specific scholarship at these institutions to help drive down the cost of your education.

Reduced Tuition for Military

These institutions offer tuition discounts for members of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Go here for a list of schools that rank highly across all veteran benefits programs

The Key Factor: Credit for Military Training

Not all institutions are going to adhere to all of these categories or participate in every student-veteran benefits program. However, I do think that receiving credit for military experience is the most important consideration when searching for a college or university to attend.

If veterans or military personnel are able to acquire credit for military training, they are already helping to drive down another important factor, the price of an education. More credits acquired equals less courses to take for that particular degree.

In our ranking, earning credit is the most important factor when searching for a college or university as a veteran or military personnel.

How can this list better serve you?

Getting your degree is one of the best decisions you can make, no matter your age or expertise. It can also be the hardest decision (I know this from experience). There are thousands of higher education institutions in the U.S., and you have to choose just one.

This list is a good place to start. Finding the right school that fits your needs is a daunting task. Having somewhere to start, or even just a list to begin from, can help you begin the process.

It’s important to note that you can find schools based on numerous factors. If you look only at veteran support programs on campus, you’ll have a very different list than US News and the other ranking websites. Balance out your needs, criteria, and veteran preferences. And don’t be afraid to chuck it all and pick the school that just feels right, regardless of veteran friendliness.

If you are eager to begin conversations with admissions counselors at different institutions you can search for schools on CollegeRecon and “Request Info” from these schools.  These messages are private and your contact info will not be shared, so no annoying phone calls to dodge after the fact!

Remember, none of the college and university ranking lists are meant to make your decision. They are just baselines against which to measure other schools in your search. YOU have to make your own decision no matter how difficult it may be.

 

Find GI Bill®-approved Schools for Military and Veterans!

 

 

 

12+ Crucial Things to Consider When Looking to Attend College as a Veteran or Military

Things for Veterans and Military to Consider When Looking to Attend College

The following 15 points are what all veterans looking to attend college should consider before making a decision.

Full-time Veteran Counselor on Campus

A full-time Veteran counselor is on campus to offer assistance and support for an array of student-Veteran issues.

RELATED: Where to Go to College?  Helpful hints to help you make a decision.

ACE Credit for Military Experience

ACE Military Evaluations Program evaluates formal military training in terms of academic credit, allowing thousands of military personnel to earn credit for college-level learning acquired in the military.

Approved for Military Tuition Assistance Funding

Military Tuition Assistance (TA) is a benefit paid to eligible members of the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard.

Yellow Ribbon Program

Tuition and fees may exceed what the GI Bill will cover. Yellow Ribbon schools make additional funds available without additional charge to your GI Bill entitlement.

Scholarships for Military

Apply for military specific scholarships at specific institutions.

Reduced Tuition for Military

Some institutions offer reduced tuition to members of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Signed VA Principles of Excellence

Educational institutions participating in the Principles of Excellence program agree to follow a set of guidelines pertaining to student-Veteran issues. Example: Providing students with a personalized form of the total cost of an educational program and designating a Point-of-Contact for academic and financial advising.

Club/Associations for Veterans

These institutions offer student-Veteran clubs and associations on their campuses.

Veteran Upward Bound Program

The Veterans Upward Bound Program is designed to motivate and assist Veterans in the development of academic and other requisite skills necessary for acceptance and success in a post-secondary program.

Awards Credit for CLEP Exam

CLEP exams allow Veterans to receive college credit by earning qualifying scores on any one or more of 24 assessments, allowing them to move directly into higher-education courses, saving both time and money.

Awards Credit for DSST Program

DSST are also credit-by-examination exams for both higher and lower levels.

In State Tuition Extended for Active Duty

These institutions charge active duty military, regardless of their state of residence, no more than the in-state tuition rate.

NOTE: This has now been extended to all service members and veterans for public institutions.

Campus Student Veterans of America Chapter

SVA chapters are student-Veteran groups that have formed on college and university campuses to provide peer-to-peer networks for Veterans who are attending those institutions.

 

Think these points over, and then start your path to higher education with CollegeRecon!

 

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