The GI Bill Offers Veteran Education Benefits The Post-9/11 GI Bill may help you get the criminal justice training you need.

military veteran doing research on computer

Veteran Benefits May Include Help With Tuition

The transition from military to civilian life can be a challenge, but the Veterans Administration made it easier with the GI Bill.

Many veterans looking to enter criminal justice decide to get a college education once they leave the military. Then when school is over, they’re trained in a new career and can more easily transition to the civilian workforce.

If you’re a veteran returning to civilian life, you now have access to this veteran benefit of the GI Bill that can make your college dream a reality.

What Are the Benefits of the Post-9/11 GI Bill?

As an alternative to existing educational veterans benefits such as the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB), the GI Bill helps veterans cover the cost of certificate programs, 4-year college degrees, graduate school education, and other types of training at a public college or university.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) explains the specific benefits of the GI Bill:

Direct payment of tuition and fees to the school you attend
A monthly housing allowance
A book stipend of up to $1,000 per year

Your tuition reimbursement can be as high as the tuition and fees at the most expensive public institution of higher learning in your state.

Veterans who choose to attend a private institution are eligible for funding equal to the cost of attending a public college in their state. Some private institutions also participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which offers additional scholarships and tuition forgiveness to cover the difference between their tuition and the new GI Bill benefits.

Who Qualifies for the GI Bill Veteran Benefits?

To qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, you must meet the following criteria:

Have at least 90 days of service since September 11, 2001
Have been discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days or more
Have an honorable discharge to take advantage of this education benefit
If you served at least 36 months since 9/11, you can receive full tuition and fees at a public college or university
Veterans who have served less than 36 months, but more than 90 days, are eligible for a percentage of the full benefit amount

Is the Post-9/11 GI Bill Right for You?

One important factor to consider is which GI Bill will offer you the most money for your education. The Post-9/11 Bill isn’t always the best choice. As the VA explains, some state colleges have low costs, and some do not require veterans to pay tuition. In those cases, other GI Bills might offer you better veteran benefits. Always compare the benefits offered by the different GI Bills before deciding which one is best for you.

_{Source: GIbill.va.gov}