Post-9/11 GI Bill (New GI Bill): An Introduction to Your Benefits

The New GI Bill, also called the Post-9/11 GI Bill, offers veterans an additional option alongside the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB). Servicemembers and veterans may be eligible for New GI Bill benefits if they serve on active duty for at least 90 days after September 10, 2001.

The New GI Bill and the Montgomery GI Bill differ as to the benefits they can provide. If you are eligible for both programs, you should do some research to determine which program might best suit your individual situation. The New GI Bill rules state that in most cases, benefits must be used within 15 years of separation from active duty.

What Benefits are Available with the New GI Bill?

New GI Bill benefits are based on the amount of time servicemembers were on active duty after 10 September 2001. If you have 36 months of active duty service, you are eligible for the full 36 months of GI Bill benefits.

The New GI Bill covers eligible tuition and fees at the in-state student rate at public schools. Out-of-state students are responsible for the difference between in-state and out-of-state costs. Private school students can receive up to $17,500 to cover tuition and fees. In addition, students may be eligible to receive a book stipend of up to $1,000 per year and a housing allowance, which varies based on the school’s location and the number of credits you are taking.

The Yellow Ribbon Program

The Yellow Ribbon Program is a military education benefits program that eligible veterans may use in addition to the New GI Bill benefits. Approved schools participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program agree to fund a portion of the tuition costs over what may be covered by the New GI Bill. They can fund up to 50 percent of the overage, and the VA matches the school's contribution.

The schools participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program offer a wide variety of degree programs, and many offer the option of pursuing online undergraduate and graduate college degrees. The New GI Bill is generous in what it can provide eligible veterans, but the Yellow Ribbon Program can provide the additional assistance you may need if you:

• Attend a private school with higher tuition than a state supported school
• Attend a school outside of the state you live in, and may be paying out of state tuition

The New GI Bill benefits and the Yellow Ribbon Program can provide eligible servicemembers and veterans with the means to reach their educational goals.

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