College benefits for veterans - what should I know?

I'm an active-duty personnel considering transitioning to Veteran status and starting college. What kind of benefits can a veteran expect when it comes to college admissions or financial aid? Any advice on this would be amazing.

There are several key benefits and resources available for veterans when it comes to college admissions and financial aid. Understanding how these work can make a big difference in your college journey.

To start with, one of the most widely-known educational benefits for veterans is the Post 9/11 GI Bill. This benefit can cover up to 100% of your tuition and fees if you're attending a public, in-state school, and up to a certain yearly limit if you're attending a private or out-of-state school. It also provides a monthly housing allowance and an annual book stipend to help offset other costs of attending college.

If you've served for at least six years, and agree to serve for another four years, you can also transfer your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to your spouse or children. Each school also has a designated VA Certifying Official, who can help you understand benefits and navigate the paperwork.

Beyond the Post-9/11 GI Bill, there's also the Yellow Ribbon Program. This program is meant to help cover the gap between the maximum amount that the Post-9/11 GI Bill will cover for private or out-of-state school tuition, and what those schools actually charge. It's a voluntary program, so not all schools participate, but those that do agree to fund a portion of that gap and the VA matches their contribution.

In terms of college admissions, many schools have Veteran Affairs offices or counselors that can support you through the application process. Some colleges actively seek to enroll veterans and may offer things like application fee waivers or priority registration.

Don't underestimate the value of your service experience in your applications either. Your leadership activities, ability to work under pressure, problem-solving skills, global perspective, and a host of other strengths developed during your military service can compellingly contribute to your essays and discussions during the admissions process.

Lastly, it's also important to consider whether your chosen college or university is "military-friendly". Schools that have earned this designation generally have services to support veterans, such as a veterans resource center, dedicated advisors familiar with the GI Bill, and a campus culture that is inclusive and understanding of veterans' experiences.

Just remember, that while these benefits are substantial, they may not cover all your education expenses, so be sure to also seek out scholarships specifically for military personnel or veterans. Every little bit can help!