3 Tips For Navigating The Certification Process For Veteran Education Benefits
Veterans who have served the country in the armed forces are often entitled to receive financial assistance to further their education after being discharged. The process of applying for and receiving these benefits is known as certification.
It's important that you fully understand the certification process so that you can navigate this process successfully when enrolling in classes in the future.
1. Develop Relationships With Financial Aid Advisors
Many colleges and universities employ full-time financial aid advisors dedicated to working with veterans. These advisors have undergone specialized training so that they are familiar with the certification process and the documentation required by the VA to successfully process a veteran's financial assistance.
You should take the time to visit the financial aid office at your school and meet with these specialized advisors. Forming a relationship with financial aid advisors will help you better navigate the certification process as you apply for benefits.
2. Identify Your Benefit Program
The certification process for individual benefit programs can vary. In order to ensure that you are navigating the certification process successfully, you need to identify the program under which your benefits will be awarded.
Most veterans receive assistance under the Post 9/11 GI Bill or the Veteran Readiness and Employment Program. Some of the main differences between these two programs are the timing of the certification process and the types of benefits awarded.
You will need to complete your certification prior to starting classes if your financial assistance comes from the Post 9/11 GI Bill. This is due to the fact that this program provides a book stipend that must be accessible prior to the first day of class.
A financial aid advisor can help you determine which benefit program you will be using to help pay for your education.
3. Complete Amended Certification Forms
Even if you are required to obtain certification for your veteran education benefits prior to the start of class, you may find that you have to submit an amended certification once your classes are underway. The purpose of an amended certification form is to provide the VA with an accurate total of all tuition and fees.
Students can add or drop courses during the first few weeks of class, so your total tuition and fee amount could change. Filing an amended certification ensures that the VA will process your paperwork and send a check for the correct amount to your college or university.
For more information on certification for veteran benefits, contact your local VA office.