The Post-9/11 GI Bill awards funds to apply towards eligible service members and veterans' education and housing while in school. Participants may opt to pursue undergraduate or graduate-level degrees, or enroll in vocational or technical schools. The bill pays up to in-state tuition at public schools categorized as institutions of higher learning. Individuals may also receive funds to apply towards their classroom texts and materials, educational support such as tutoring and fees towards tests for professional credentials.
To qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, veterans must have served at least 90 days as of or since Sept. 11, 2001. Veterans discharged due to a disability incurred while on duty must have at least 30 days of service. The Post-9/11 provisions of the GI Bill also allow active duty military personnel to pursue further education and training. The bill excludes active service members from benefits towards housing and educational materials. Active duty and veteran military personnel may also opt to transfer benefits to their spouses or children.
An additional component of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Yellow Ribbon Program provides assistance to service members or veterans who enroll in more expensive educational programs such as private schools and graduate programs or who attend school as out-of-state students. Yellow Ribbon Program participants must have at least three years of active duty or at least 30 days service if discharged due to disability after Sept.10, 2001. Schools participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program contribute funds toward eligible students' education and receive matching funds from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The website for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs -- the agency administering GI Bill programs -- details schools, job training and skilled trade programs that accept GI Bill funds. Institutions that accept Post-9/11 GI Bill awards include traditional colleges and universities, distance learning courses and apprenticeship programs. Funds can also apply towards vocational training and professional licensing and credentialing programs (such as cosmetology schools and broker licensures). Individuals seeking to participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program should contact their institution of interest for more specific information. Eligible GI Bill recipients may also seek guidance administered by Veterans Affairs.