Federal and Missouri laws allow schools to establish programs and classes for the use of benefit programs, often specifically designed for the needs of veterans. These courses need to be with an accredited institution of higher learning and lead to the procurement of a degree. Missouri was ranked the nation's best in 2009 for on-the-job training, re-training and education venues for veterans. One of these programs is the Troops to Teachers Program, which provides employment leads, counseling for certification requirements, and up to $10,000 in loan reimbursement for those who teach three or more years in low-income schools. This program is operated through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Individuals who joined the Missouri Army National Guard before April 1, 2001, can receive up to 30 credit hours per academic year, and those who joined after April 1, 2001, can obtain 50 percent tuition reductions. This latter clause also applies to those with less than 10 years of service. Persons in the Missouri Air National Guard can earn 15 credit hours per semester at the University of Missouri for 10 semesters. Those without bachelor degrees are eligible for these initiatives. Also, survivors of veterans who served between 1961 and 1972 and died as a result of chemical exposure during Vietnam are eligible for The Vietnam Veterans Survivor Grant Program. While most opportunities for veterans are not restricted in numbers, this program only serves 12 candidates per year.
Colleges like Missouri State University are members of the Yellow Ribbon Program. The Yellow Ribbon Program is a national entity that enables colleges and universities to provide reduced rates for qualifying veterans. The guidelines of the program state that students who are 100 percent covered under the Post 9/11 GI Bill, are non-residents, or are in programs costing more than $269 per credit hour are eligible for partial fee waivers. More than 100 schools and programs in Missouri are part of the Yellow Ribbon Program.