What Are GI Bill ® Education Benefits?
If you’re a U.S. military veteran (or a dependent or spouse of a veteran) seeking to advance your education after serving the nation, the GI Bill ® can be your golden ticket. The GI Bill ® offers a set of education benefits provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to help veterans, service members, and their families pay for college, graduate school, and training programs. These benefits cover your tuition and fees, monthly housing allowance, books and educational supplies, and one-time rural relocation assistance.
At EC-Council University (ECCU), veterans are encouraged to use their GI Bill ® education benefits toward bachelor’s, master’s, and graduate certificate programs that prepare them for high-demand roles in the cybersecurity industry. ECCU, which is a Cybersecurity University, allows you to leverage the GI Bill ® education benefits to gain the necessary qualifications to launch your cybersecurity career without facing any financial hardship.
But how do you determine if you qualify for GI Bill ® education benefits? Let’s examine the eligibility criteria below.
Eligibility Criteria for the GI Bill ® and VA Education Benefits
To qualify for GI Bill ® benefits, you must meet certain service-related criteria. Here’s a breakdown of eligibility:
You may qualify if:
- You served at least 90 days of active duty after September 10, 2001.
- You were honorably discharged from active duty for a service-connected disability after 30 continuous days.
- You received a Purple Heart on or after September 11, 2001.
- You are a dependent using transferred benefits from an eligible service member.
Levels of Benefit
Your benefit percentage (from 40% to 100%) is based on your duration of service. For example:
- 36+ months of service entitle you to 100% coverage
- 30–35 months of service entitle you to 90% coverage
- 24–29 months of service entitle you to 80% coverage
- And so on.
You can verify your eligibility using the GI Bill ® Comparison Tool.
VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE): What It Is and How to Get It
The VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is official proof from the VA that you qualify for GI Bill ® benefits. It outlines:- Your benefit percentage
- Remaining months of benefits
- Time limits for usage
- Your service history used to determine eligibility
How to Apply for a VA Certificate of Eligibility
- Online: Visit VA.gov and fill out VA Form 22-1990.
- By Mail: Request a paper form and send it to your regional VA processing office.
- In Person: Visit a VA regional office for assistance.
- With Help: Contact a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) for assistance in obtaining your COE.
Special GI Bill ® Considerations for Dependents
The GI Bill ® isn’t just for veterans – it can also benefit their families. Through the Transfer of Education Benefits (TEB) program, eligible service members can transfer unused benefits to dependents like their spouses and children.
Requirements
- The service member must request the transfer while still on active duty via milConnect.
- The dependent must be enrolled in the DEERS (Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System).
- The dependent must apply using VA Form 22-1990e.
Additional VA Programs for Dependents
- Fry Scholarship: For children and spouses of service members who died in the line of duty after 9/11/2001.
- Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance: Offers up to 36 months of education benefits for eligible dependents.
Common Issues and Remedies When Availing GI Bill ® Education Benefits
It’s possible for challenges to arise when you apply for your GI Bill ® education benefits. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:
1. Delayed Payments
- Why it happens: Late school certification or VA processing delays.
- Solution: Contact your school’s VA Certifying Official and call the VA Education Call Center at +1 888-442-4551.
2. Enrollment Changes
- Why it matters: Dropping or adding classes affects your benefit amount.
- Solution: Notify the VA immediately to avoid overpayments or benefit interruptions.
3. Overpayments
- Why it happens: Changes in enrollment or incorrect certifications.
- Solution: Work with the VA to set up a repayment plan or request a waiver if applicable.
4. Housing Allowance Gaps
- Why it happens: No housing allowance is paid during school breaks.
- Solution: Plan ahead financially for breaks between terms.
5. Transfer Denials
- Why it happens: Transfer of Education Benefits (TEB) was not approved or submitted incorrectly.
- Solution: Ensure you initiate the transfer while on active duty and that your dependent(s) apply using the correct form.
If you need help, the Ask VA (AVA) Portal is a great place to submit questions and get swift responses.
ECCU Welcomes Applications from Veterans
Navigating GI Bill ® education benefits can be tricky, but with the right guidance, it becomes a simple and smooth process. EC-Council University guides you through every step and is committed to supporting veterans and their families in achieving their educational goals. Whether you’re a veteran who’s keen on upskilling or a veteran’s spouse or child looking to build a career in cybersecurity, we’ll help you leverage GI Bill ® education benefits to accomplish your mission. You don’t even have to pay an application fee!
Ready to take the next step in your career by becoming a cybersecurity professional? Reach out to our Veterans Admissions Advisor and start your journey today.
