What are options when GI Bill runs out before schooling is complete?

Larissa Willfong — Tue, 19 May 2020 18:59:55 -0400

My husband has a 100% VA Disability rating and was only recently able to secure a job that allowed him the time to also use his GI Bill. His GI Bill runs out January 2021, and he will only be halfway done with his degree. Are there options that will help us pay for his schooling after his GI Bill benefits run out?

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2020 7:05 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2020 19:05:46 -0400

Grants, scholarships, or loans...
http://www.collegescholarships.org/scholarships/veterans.htm

College Scholarships for Veterans Who Served Their Country

Were you a member of one of the Armed Forces? If you want to go to college, there are many resources you should investigate and find out if you can get free education funding.

Response by SGT Chris Stephens made May 19 at 2020 7:07 PM

SGT Chris Stephens — Tue, 19 May 2020 19:07:29 -0400

Mine ran out, but then I was granted a 12-month extension using the Post 9/11 GI Bill as I pursued my masters. It basically got me almost all the way there with me only having to pay $3,000 for my last six hours.

Response by Wayne Soares made May 19 at 2020 7:12 PM

Wayne Soares — Tue, 19 May 2020 19:12:55 -0400

Larissa: what state do you live in? I have good connections at the VA Massachusetts

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made May 19 at 2020 7:27 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Tue, 19 May 2020 19:27:20 -0400

He is authorized education benefits with the VA in certain situations. He need to speak to Rehab Officer at your local VA.

Response by PO3 Phyllis Maynard made May 19 at 2020 7:38 PM

PO3 Phyllis Maynard — Tue, 19 May 2020 19:38:41 -0400

Larissa Willfong call the VA National Call Center at [login to see] . Once you verify your identity (your husband will need to make the call) your questions will be answered based on the electronic file being reviewed. They may refer you to the educational line.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2020 8:12 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 May 2020 20:12:25 -0400

So, check with the VA for education benefits

It also doesn't hurt to apply for grants and scholarships. If you want to apply for student loans I recommend checking with your bank before going through the school. You might be able to get better interest rates.

Response by CDR Terry Boles made May 19 at 2020 9:19 PM

CDR Terry Boles — Tue, 19 May 2020 21:19:46 -0400

Some states like Texas have free education for veterans when their benefits have been exhausted; Hazelwood Act. I have friends who used this. Worth looking into what your state may have available.

I too used all my Vietnam GI Bill for undergrad but I applied for 9/11 GI Bill and was granted 12-months more. Worthwhile calling VA educational department and see what your options are.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made May 20 at 2020 10:43 AM

LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow — Wed, 20 May 2020 10:43:31 -0400

States often have education benefits for 100% disabled vets. Check with your county or state VSO.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made May 20 at 2020 12:58 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Wed, 20 May 2020 12:58:27 -0400

I see several choices and I'm sure many others exist. In general, he needs to talk with the Financial Aide Officer at the college or university. They should be experts in the many ways a student can get money.
-The VA may allow him to extend his benefits. Talk with VA education benefit counselor.
-Student grants and loans (Federal and State Depts of Education). Apply for these through Financial Aide Office.
-Scholarships. Many types of scholarships are available. Your husband's disability may qualify him for certain scholarships beyond those which most any student might be eligible for. Again, Financial Aide Office. Some societies or unions offer scholarships to students pursuing a specific course of study.
-Employer paid educational benefits. Check with employer's human resource office.

Response by SPC Sharon Spradling made May 20 at 2020 11:40 PM

SPC Sharon Spradling — Wed, 20 May 2020 23:40:05 -0400

I was told by my college which im trying to get started again after not attending for years, they said the post 9/11 GI bill doesnt run out...is that true? I thought you had 10 years to use it and my 10 years come up next month!