Can the Post-9/11 GI Bill Be Used for Certificate Programs?

The Post-9/11 GI Bill is a generous education benefit offered to Veterans who served on active duty after September 10, 2001. This benefit covers tuition costs for college degrees and training programs to help Veterans start new careers after military service.

Many Veterans wonder if the Post-9/11 GI Bill can also be used to cover certificate programs that are alternatives to college degrees. The answer is yes – this benefit can pay for many kinds of certificate training!

Read on to learn more about using the Post-9/11 GI Bill for certificate programs and non-degree career training.

What the Post-9/11 GI Bill Covers

The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides up to 36 months of education benefits to eligible Veterans and dependents This benefit can be used for

• Undergraduate and graduate college degree programs
• Flight training
• Correspondence courses
• Entrepreneurship training
• National testing reimbursement
• Licensure and certification exam fees
• Vocational training
• Non-college degree programs
• And more

So in addition to college tuition, the GI Bill also covers certificate programs, vocational schools, career training, and other non-degree options.

Using the GI Bill for Certificate Programs

Here are some key points on utilizing Post-9/11 GI Bill funds for certificate programs:

• Certificate programs at vocational schools, career centers, technical colleges, and other non-degree granting institutions are eligible.

• Duration can range from a few weeks for basic certificates to 1-2 years for advanced certifications

• Program must be offered by an accredited school or training provider.

• Can be online or in-person classes and training.

• Covers tuition, fees, books, and supplies. BAH and stipends may also be paid.

• Examples: IT certificates, medical certifications, technical training certificates, construction licenses, etc.

So the Post-9/11 GI Bill provides a great way for Veterans to cover the costs of earning career certificates without needing a college degree.

How Payment Rates Are Determined

For certificate programs and other non-college offerings, GI Bill payment rates are based on:

• Number of clock hours scheduled per week
• Total length of the training period
• Location of classes (for in-person attendance)
• Active duty service status

Payment tiers range from full-time to less than half-time based on hours. Rates are set by the VA annually.

What Programs Are Eligible?

The Post-9/11 GI Bill can be used for training and certificates related to:

• Healthcare – Nursing, EMT, medical technology, dental assisting, etc.

• Skilled trades – Construction, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, welding, etc.

• Transportation – Commercial driving, aviation, diesel mechanics, etc.

• Culinary – Cooking, baking, food prep, hospitality, etc.

• Tech – Coding, cybersecurity, IT certifications, etc.

• Business – Bookkeeping, project management, administrative assisting, etc.

• Cosmetology – Barbering, hair, skin, nails, makeup artistry.

• Mechanics – Auto repair, motorcycle, marine, etc.

And many more career fields! Just make sure the program and provider are accredited.

How to Apply Your GI Bill Benefits

Follow these steps to use Post-9/11 GI Bill funds for a certificate program:

• Find an approved program at a vocational school or technical training center.

• Apply and enroll in the certificate program.

• Submit transcript from prior college/military training (if applicable).

• Send your COE form to the VA to confirm GI Bill eligibility.

• Provide school with GI Bill Statement of Benefits.

• School will certify your program enrollment to the VA.

• VA issues payment to the school to cover tuition, fees, and other costs.

• Ongoing payments are made each term for multi-month programs.

Be sure to apply for your GI Bill benefit 70-90 days before classes start to allow processing time.

Alternatives to Post-9/11 GI Bill

If you aren’t eligible for Post-9/11 benefits, other GI Bills can help pay for certificate programs:

• Montgomery GI Bill – Active Duty (MGIB-AD)

• Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)

• Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)

• Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA)

Check your eligibility and rates for these programs.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill opens up many possibilities beyond just college degrees. Put your benefits to work earning career certificates, vocational training, and other credentials to succeed after serving our country.