Frequently Asked Questions
What are VA Educational Benefits?
VA Educational Benefits are programs offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to assist eligible veterans, service members and their dependents in pursuing higher education and career training.
Who is eligible for VA Educational Benefits?
Eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific VA benefit program. In general, veterans, active-duty service members and their dependents may be eligible. Eligibility is often determined by factors such as length of service, discharge status and other factors.
How often do I need to submit a request for VA Educational Benefits?
You must request your benefits every term no later than three weeks prior to the start date of the semester/session. Failure to do so may result in payment delays and/or being dropped from your courses.
How do I know if I'm eligible for VA Educational Benefits?
To find out if you are eligible for GI Bill educational benefits, complete an application online. Once your application has been submitted and reviewed, the VA will contact you by mail with documentation to support the approval or denial of GI Bill educational benefits.
How do I apply for VA Educational Benefits?
The application process varies by program. To get started, visit the VA's official website, create a VA.gov account and complete the online application for the specific benefit program you're interested in.
What documents do I need to apply for VA Educational Benefits?
Required documentation varies but often includes your Certificate of Eligibility (COE), DD-214 form, transcripts and information about your selected educational program.
What types of VA Educational Benefit programs are available?
There are several VA benefit programs, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance and more.
How long does UH take to certify/submit my enrollment?
Please allow six to seven business days for UH to certify your enrollment. You may track the status of your request in myUH Academic Records Tile, View VA Certification.
What classes will the VA certify?
The GI Bill will only fund courses that are required for the educational objective you have selected. Please refer to your academic advisor or program coordinator to be sure that the classes that you are taking are required, have not previously been completed or transferred and will in fact apply toward the completion of your degree.
I want to submit a request for educational benefits, but I do not see the term listed in myUH.
Students must enroll in classes for the term to appear in myUH Academic Records Tile. You will not be able to submit a request until you enroll. Students are encouraged to finalize their schedules before submitting a request for educational benefits to avoid over/under payments by the VA.
Can I use VA Educational Benefits for online or distance learning programs?
Yes, many VA benefit programs can be used for online or distance education. Be sure to check the specific program guidelines and work with your school's VA certifying official to ensure compliance.
How much financial assistance can I receive through VA Educational Benefits?
Benefit amounts vary depending on the program, your length of service and other factors. The VA's website provides benefit calculators and information on specific payment rates.
How do I secure my courses until VA sends payment?
Secure your classes by making payment or enrolling in a Pay Plan in myUH.
Who do I contact if I make changes in my enrollment?
Students can make changes to their class schedules during the add drop period defined on the Academic Calendar. Students using VA Educational Benefits are required to submit a VA Adjustment Form in myUH, Academic Records Tile. Changes should be reported promptly to avoid delays in payment or possible over/underpayments.
Will the VA cover repeated courses?
The VA benefits generally cover the cost of repeating a course if you received a failing grade. If you've already received a passing grade for a course, you may not be able to use VA benefits to retake it.
Will the VA cover remedial courses?
VA benefits can cover the cost of remedial or developmental courses if they are required as part of your approved program of study. These courses are typically designed to help you build the necessary academic skills to succeed in college-level courses. We may request test scores if they are not filed at UH.
How do I transfer my Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to a dependent or spouse?
If you're eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, you can transfer benefits to your dependents or spouse through the VA's Transfer of Education Benefits (TEB) program. The transfer process is typically done through the VA's website.
Can I use VA Educational Benefits for graduate programs or professional certifications?
Yes, many VA benefit programs can be used for graduate programs and professional certifications.
How can I check the status of my VA Educational Benefits application or payments?
You can check the status of your application and payments by logging into your VA.gov account and using the "Check Post-9/11 GI Bill Status" tool or by contacting the VA directly.
What support services are available for veterans and their dependents at the University of Houston?
UH offers various support services for veterans and their dependents, including a Veterans Services Office, academic advising, counseling and assistance with the certification of VA benefits.