What resources are available to veterans interested in pursuing a graduate business education? The Post-9/11 G.I. Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program both provide substantial funds for veteran education, but how do they work?
Post-9/11 G.I. Bill
The Post-9/11 G.I. Bill may provide full tuition for eligible veterans to attend public institutions of higher education. For veterans enrolling at private institutions, the G.I. Bill covers tuition up to the cost of the most expensive in-state public university. In addition to tuition, the bill may also provides stipends for housing and books.
Yellow Ribbon Program
The Yellow Ribbon Program is a provision of the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill that may provide additional funding for eligible veterans enrolling in participating private schools. Under the Yellow Ribbon Program, the school provides a set amount of funding to veteran students and the Department of Veteran’s Affairs matches that amount dollar for dollar. These funds are in addition to the funds provided by the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill.
Who Is Eligible for Military Education Funding?
Eligibility for funding under the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill is based on the number of months of active duty a veteran served in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Vets eligible for full benefits: 30 days active duty discharged due to service related disability & those who served 36 months active duty. Partial benefits range from 90 days to 35 months.
What Other Sources of Funding are Available?
Military education funding does not effect your eligibility for other source of financial aid. This means that in addition to military funding, you may receive loans, scholarships and corporate sponsorship. Some military funding provisions also exist for Reservists, veterans of previous wars and other members of the military, such as the Montgomery G.I. Bill. With such opportunities available, there is no reason not to leverage your military experience into a business career.