Apply to the school you would like to attend. Though this is not necessary to begin the GI Bill process, it does make the process easier and faster if you can include the name and address of the school where you have been accepted on your GI Bill application.
Complete the application for the GI Bill. This application is available online (see Resources). You can also call the Department of Veterans Affairs to receive a copy of the application or visit your school's financial aid office. Both of these offices also have employees who are available to assist in the completion of the application.
Attach the required documentation to the application. In most cases, this is the discharge paperwork, otherwise known as the DD-214. If you were National Guard or Reserve, you may also need to attach orders that show periods of activation.
Alert the school that you completed the application process. This will enable the school to finish the rest of the application on their end so the school can be paid by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Verify your enrollment online in the WAVE system monthly (see Resources) by logging into the system and certifying you are still enrolled in school. After this has been completed, the VA will be able to process your payment for the month. Payments for tuition are paid directly to the school, whereas all other payments are paid to the veteran via direct deposit.