There are numerous VA educational programs available to those men and women who wish to further their education. All of these programs have their own unique qualifying criteria and rates of payment. While these programs do not necessarily pay a student’s tuition, they do contribute monthly benefit payments which can go toward the student’s education.
One such program is The Veterans Education Assistance Program (VEAP). This program is available to those who first entered active duty between January 1, 1977 and elected to make contributions from military pay in order to participate. The original contributions should have been made prior to April 1, 1987. An individual’s contributions are matched on a $2 to $1 basis by the federal government and may be used for a variety of degrees and certificate programs.
VEAP’s History
The Veterans Education Assistance Program was one of numerous education incentivized programs that were offered to servicemen and women who entered active duty January 1, 1977 to June 30, 1985. This program was enacted by Congress in an effort to attract the highest quality of men and women to all of the voluntary Armed Forces.
VEAP at a Glance
Entitlement benefits qualify from 1 to 36 months depending on the amount of monthly contributions. Individuals have 10 years from their release date from active duty to use VEAP benefits. If benefits are not used within that timeframe, the portion of contributions remaining is automatically refunded back to the individual. The 10 year period can be extended, however, if an individual were prevented because of a disability or being held by a foreign government or power.
VEAP’s Impact on Veteran Service Member’s Education Opportunities
The Veteran Education Assistance Program allows individuals to receive benefits that can be applied to a variety of training, including a graduate or undergraduate degree at a college or university – these include corporate training programs as well as accredited independent study programs such as online or distance learning. Individuals may also receive certificates or diplomas from a business, technical or vocational school, as well as take correspondence courses.
If you qualify for VEAP, taking advantage of the many benefits can put your life and career on a high trajectory path toward success.