Should the VA pay for college remedial classes such as Math?

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 06:24:44 -0500

At my college I must take 3 math classes, 2 of which are considered to be "remedial" Math and are prerequisites to Finite Math. The VA currently does not pay for this type of remedial math classes, despite having a disability rating over 50% or more. (Need is 25% for Chapter 31). What are your thoughts on this?

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 7:53 AM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 07:53:52 -0500

I think they should, SFC Private RallyPoint Member, if the classes are required for a class that's part of a degree or certificate that is recognized as your goal under VA. It's a shame that you're running into difficulties with this assistance.

I've seen something similar with prerequisite courses that don't earn college credits. It's a grey area, but the classes are required to take credit classes, so I think they should be recognized and funded by the VA, the GI Bill, etc.

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Mar 4 at 2015 8:01 AM

SGT Jim Z. — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 08:01:01 -0500

Very interesting and I know when I started my on my degree I believe I ran into the same issue and at the time I was okay financially so I sucked up the course. I understand the premise behind it but I really believe it needs to be handled on a case by case basis. How do we fix it I do not really know.

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Mar 4 at 2015 8:04 AM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 08:04:53 -0500

I know AF TA pays for remedial classes if they are required.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 4 at 2015 8:12 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 08:12:04 -0500

VA should cover any remedial courses, and any pre-requisites to start the program. If a student needs remedial math courses prior to starting a program, or pre-requisites in order to even start a program, then those courses are necessary for the student to succeed.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Mar 4 at 2015 1:05 PM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 13:05:05 -0500

Have you considered taking the math CLEP test? Worth 6 college credits. It may get you out of those, and only costs $95 (can't remember if retirees have to pay). Local base education office will host vets & retirees.

You only have to get 55-60% on the test for a "passing" score (C). Most colleges will take up to 30 credits in CLEPS/DANTES.

Response by SPC Jack Hunt, JR made Mar 4 at 2015 1:39 PM

SPC Jack Hunt, JR — Wed, 04 Mar 2015 13:39:42 -0500

They paid for the 2 I had to take. If you have a veterans representive at your school seek advice. Mine is invaluable, and always willing to hear out any problem I have and put out the fires.