Ascertain your eligibility and how much assistance is available. Veterans who served a full 3 years or more of collective active duty or who, after 30 days of continuous service, were honorably discharged because of a disability incurred while in the military are eligible to 100 percent of the education benefits. Benefits are reduced for veterans who served less time.
Obtain your military record or DD-214. Download an SF-180 (Request Pertaining to Military Records) form from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) website. Complete the form, then mail or fax it to the VA.
Decide what type of schooling you want. The Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) will pay for courses at colleges and universities in addition to vocational schools and apprentice programs and correspondence training, among others. Schedule an appointment with admissions staff or inquire online about what procedures are required. Even if you have yet to decide, you can still begin the application process.
Download the 22-1990 (Application for VA Education Benefits) from the agency's website and fill it out. If you have chosen your education program, mail the form to the VA Regional Processing Office that handles the geographical region of the school's physical address. Advise the school's veteran's admissions staff of your application and request that your attendance information be sent to the VA from the school. You will be notified of the VA's decision. If you have not chosen a school or training program, complete the form and mail it to the VA Regional Processing Office that covers the region of your home address. The VA will notify you of its decision.