Supporting Veterans in Higher Education: VA Offices and Resources on College Campuses

Coming off Veterans Day, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible contributions of those who have served and the ways colleges and universities are committed to supporting veterans as they pursue their education. Navigating the college admissions process and understanding VA benefits can feel overwhelming, but many institutions provide dedicated resources to help make the journey smoother for veterans and their families.

Whether you’re applying to college for the first time or returning to school after military service, here’s what you need to know about using VA benefits and how colleges can support your success.

Understanding VA Education Benefits

One of the most significant ways colleges support veterans is through their Office of Veteran Services (OVS). These offices are designed to assist students in applying for and using their VA education benefits, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, Yellow Ribbon Program, and other VA educational benefits. Here are some key requirements for receiving VA benefits and staying on track during your college experience:

General Requirements to Use VA Benefits

To use VA benefits at most colleges, students must:

• Provide a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA.

• Submit an official acceptance letter from the college or university.

• Provide high school, military, and any prior college transcripts.

• Meet all admissions requirements and select a major before certification.

• Complete a Request for Certification each semester to notify the school of your intent to use benefits.

Each VA benefits program—like Chapter 30, Chapter 31 (Veteran Readiness & Employment), Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill), Chapter 35 (Dependents Educational Assistance), or Chapter 1606—has its own specific requirements. For example, students using Chapter 31 benefits must purchase books and supplies at the college bookstore, while those using Chapter 33 must report any enrollment changes immediately to avoid benefit overpayments.

Maintaining VA Eligibility

Veterans and dependents must also maintain satisfactory academic progress, as defined by their college’s academic catalog. For most schools, this means maintaining at least a 2.0 GPA and working toward completion of their degree program. Falling below this threshold may lead to the suspension of VA benefits.

How VA Offices Support Veterans

The Office of Veteran Services (or its equivalent) is often the first point of contact for veterans on campus. These offices:

• Assist with benefit certification: They help ensure all documents are submitted correctly and in a timely manner.

• Answer questions: From understanding tuition payments to navigating course enrollment, they’re a key resource for clarifying VA regulations.

• Provide support for changes in enrollment: If you drop a class, withdraw, or change your major, the VA office will guide you on how to update your benefits to avoid overpayment or other issues.

• Connect veterans with resources: Whether it’s financial aid assistance, career counseling, or connecting with other student veterans, these offices offer holistic support to help veterans thrive on campus.

How In-State, Out-of-State, and Private Schools Handle VA Benefits

Public Schools

Veterans attending public universities can often benefit from in-state tuition rates, even if they technically reside out of state. The Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act require public colleges to offer in-state tuition to qualifying veterans and dependents, regardless of their state of residence. This can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education.

Private Schools and the Yellow Ribbon Program

Private colleges and universities may not differentiate between in-state and out-of-state tuition, but they often participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program, a supplement to the Post-9/11 GI Bill. This program helps cover tuition costs beyond what the GI Bill provides. Schools like Methodist University contribute additional funds, which the VA matches, making private education more accessible to veterans and their families.

Additional Ways Colleges Support Veterans

Beyond the VA benefits process, colleges are increasingly offering programs and initiatives to ensure veterans feel supported and empowered on campus. Here are a few examples of how colleges go the extra mile for their veteran students:

1. Veteran-Friendly Student Organizations
   Many colleges have student organizations specifically for veterans. These groups provide opportunities to build community, share experiences, and access peer support.

2. Dedicated Study Spaces or Lounges
   Some schools offer veteran-specific study spaces or lounges where student veterans can relax, study, or connect with others in similar situations.

3. Career Counseling for Veterans
   Colleges often provide tailored career counseling to help veterans translate their military experience into civilian careers. This includes resume workshops, mock interviews, and job placement assistance.

4. Mental Health and Counseling Services
   Recognizing the unique challenges veterans face, many schools provide access to mental health professionals who specialize in working with military-affiliated students.

5. Flexibility in Course Scheduling
   Veterans may benefit from schools that offer evening, weekend, or online classes, allowing them to balance work, family, and school responsibilities.

Tips for Veterans Applying to College

1. Start Early: Begin gathering your documents (e.g., COE, DD-214, transcripts) well before deadlines. Colleges often require time to process VA certifications.

2. Ask Questions: Reach out to the school’s VA office for clarification on benefits, tuition payments, and eligibility requirements. They are there to help.

3. Consider All Options: Look into both public and private schools to determine the best financial and academic fit for your needs. The Yellow Ribbon Program can make private schools surprisingly affordable.

4. Apply for FAFSA: In addition to VA benefits, you may qualify for federal financial aid. Filling out the FAFSA can help cover costs not included in VA funding.

Conclusion

Colleges and universities across the country are dedicated to supporting their veteran students. From VA offices that help with education benefits to programs that foster community and career success, institutions are working hard to ensure veterans thrive in higher education. Whether you're using the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Yellow Ribbon Program, or other VA benefits, be sure to explore the resources available to you on campus.

At Methodist University, we are proud to serve those who have served. Our Office of Veteran Services is here to guide you every step of the way. If you have questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help you succeed.