The Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) is an education benefit program for veterans and servicemembers. It provides financial assistance to pursue degree and vocational training programs. Understanding the monthly payment rates can help you determine if the MGIB is the right program for your education goals.
MGIB Monthly Payment Rates
The MGIB pays a monthly stipend directly to the veteran or servicemember. The amount depends on several factors:
- Type of training – college degree vs. vocational program
- Training time – full-time vs. part-time
- Length of service – benefits increase after 3 years of active duty
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) adjusts the rates annually on October 1st. Here are the current monthly payment rates effective from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025:
Full MGIB Benefits (3+ Years Active Duty)
- Full-time college: $2,438
- 3⁄4-time college: $1,828.50
- 1⁄2-time college: $1,219
- Full-time vocational: $2,438
- 3⁄4-time vocational: $1,828.50
- 1⁄2-time vocational: $1,219
Partial MGIB Benefits (2-3 Years Active Duty)
- Full-time college: $1,978
- 3⁄4-time college: $1,483.50
- 1⁄2-time college: $989
- Full-time vocational: $1,978
- 3⁄4-time vocational: $1,483.50
- 1⁄2-time vocational: $989
As you can see, full MGIB benefits offer significantly higher monthly payments compared to partial benefits.
The monthly amount is prorated if you enroll for a portion of a month. For example if classes start on the 15th you would receive 50% of the full monthly rate.
The MGIB also pays reduced benefits if you enroll less than half-time. The payment cannot exceed the cost of tuition and fees.
Factors That Impact Monthly Payments
Several factors can impact how much you receive each month from the MGIB:
Length of Service
- 3+ years of active duty = full benefits
- 2-3 years of active duty = partial benefits
- Less than 2 years = not eligible for MGIB
The longer you serve on active duty, the higher your monthly payments.
Training Time
- Full-time = 100% of monthly rate
- 3⁄4 time = 75% of monthly rate
- 1⁄2 time = 50% of monthly rate
- Less than 1⁄2 time = reduced benefits
Take enough credits each term to qualify as full-time if possible. This will maximize your monthly MGIB stipend.
Cost of Tuition & Fees
If you enroll less than half-time, your payment cannot exceed the cost of tuition and fees. For example, if tuition is $1,500 for the semester and the half-time monthly rate is $2,438, you would only receive $1,500.
Kicker & Buy-Up Programs
Some servicemembers qualify for a “kicker” through their enlistment contract. This adds additional funds per month.
You can also increase benefits by $150/month with the $600 Buy-Up program.
Apprenticeships & On-the-Job Training
For apprenticeships and on-the-job training, monthly rates start higher and decrease over time. For example, the first six months pay $1,828.50 per month. After that, rates drop to $1,340.90 for months 7-12.
Estimating Your Total MGIB Benefits
In addition to monthly payments, the MGIB provides a total maximum lifetime benefit. Here are the current amounts:
- Full benefits: $83,364
- Partial benefits: $53,304
These amounts represent benefits for 36 months of full-time training.
You can estimate your total MGIB benefit by adding up the monthly rates for your training time over 4 years:
Full-Time MGIB Benefits Year 1: 12 months x $2,438 = $29,256 Year 2: 12 months x $2,438 = $29,256Year 3: 12 months x $2,438 = $29,256Year 4: 12 months x $2,438 = $29,256Total Benefits: $116,024This example exceeds the $83,364 lifetime max. But it demonstrates how the monthly rates add up over 4 years of full-time enrollment.
Some other things to note:
- Benefits are charged based on training time. Full-time uses more benefits than part-time.
- You have 10 years to use MGIB benefits after separating from service.
- The $83,364 max is not adjusted for inflation.
When Do You Get Paid?
MGIB benefits are paid after the school confirms your enrollment each term. Here is the typical payment schedule:
- Enroll early so your classes are certified to VA before the term starts
- VA issues payment at the beginning of the month
- First payment may take 30-45 days to process
- Subsequent payments are made each following month
- Payments go directly to the veteran, not the school
Setting up direct deposit ensures you get paid as soon as funds are released.
The MGIB does not issue BAH or book stipends like the Post-9/11 GI Bill. The monthly rates are intended to help cover those expenses.
Applying for MGIB Benefits
To start using MGIB benefits, you need to apply and be approved by VA. Here are the steps:
- Gather required documents like your DD-214
- Submit application online at www.va.gov
- VA will process claim – allow 30 days
- Receive decision letter approving benefits
- Apply and enroll in school
- School certifies your enrollment
- VA issues payment at start of term
The application process takes some time so apply well in advance of enrollment. You can also get help through your school’s VA rep or a VSO officer.
Is the MGIB Right for You?
The MGIB can provide substantial assistance for education and training. But it has limitations compared to other programs:
Pros
- Up to $2,438 per month for full-time students
- Pays a steady stipend each month
- Fully funded by VA – doesn’t impact Post-9/11 GI Bill
Cons
- No BAH or book stipend
- Subject to $83,364 lifetime max
- Limits ability to change programs
- 10-year expiration date
Compare the MGIB to other education benefits like the Post-9/11 GI Bill to decide if it’s the best fit. Your long-term career plans should play a big role.
Analyze your goals, costs, and time horizon. And determine if the monthly stipend model of the MGIB aligns with your education plans.
Summary
The Montgomery GI Bill pays veterans and active duty servicemembers pursuing higher education and vocational training programs. Benefit amounts are determined by training time, length of service, and program costs.
Full-time students with 3+ years of service qualify for up to $2,438 per month. The total lifetime benefit is capped at $83,364. Monthly stipends are paid directly to the veteran or servicemember after the school confirms enrollment.
Understanding the MGIB payment rates and structure allows you to estimate your total benefits. This can help determine if the MGIB is the right education program for your needs and goals. Analyze your options and make an informed decision when choosing a VA education benefit.
Enlistment of 2 to 3 Years
The rates in the following two tables apply to those having completed an enlistment of two to three years on active duty.
| Training Time | Monthly rate |
|---|---|
| Full time | $1,978.00 |
| ¾ time | $1,483.50 |
| ½ time | $989.00 |
| Less than ½ time more than ¼ time | $989.00 ** |
| ¼ time or less | $494.50** |
** Tuition and fees only. Payment cannot exceed the listed amount.
| Training Period | Monthly rate |
|---|---|
| First six months of training | $1,483.50 |
| Second six months of training | $1,087.90 |
| Remainder of training | $692.30 |
Correspondence and flight training: 55% and 60% of approved costs, respectively
Enlistment of 3 or More Years
The rates in the following two tables apply to beneficiaries completing an enlistment of three years or more.
| Training Time | Monthly rate |
|---|---|
| Full time | $2,438.00 |
| ¾ time | $1,828.50 |
| ½ time | $1,219.00 |
| Less than ½ time more than ¼ time | $1,219.00 ** |
| ¼ time or less | $609.50 ** |
** Or the cost of tuition and fees, whichever is less.
| Training Period | Monthly rate |
|---|---|
| First six months of training | $1,828.50 |
| Second six months of training | $1,340.90 |
| Remainder of training | $853.30 |
Correspondence and flight training: 55% and 60% off approved fees, respectively.
Montgomery GI Bill: Unlocking Your Veteran Education Benefits
FAQ
How much does the Montgomery Reserve GI Bill pay?
Based on how many classes you’re taking, we’ll pay you up to this amount: full-time enrollment: $481 00 for each full month. 3/4-time enrollment: $360. 00 for each full month. 1/2-time enrollment: $240. 00 for each full month.
How much is a GI Bill monthly payment?
We base your monthly housing allowance on the national average. We’ll pay you up to $2,355. 00 (equal to the national average for MHA). This is the maximum amount we’ll pay you each month.
How much does chapter 35 pay monthly in 2024?
Newly updated DEA Chapter 35 Rates Chart by Program and Type of EnrollmentType of EnrollmentMonthly Pay Rates (Oct. 1, 2024–September 30, 2025)Months 1-6$975 00 per monthMonths 7-12$733. 00 per monthMonths 13-18$481. 00 per monthMore than 19 months$245. 00 per month.
How much does the Montgomery GI Bill kicker pay?
Kicker amounts range from $100 to $350 per month and are only paid to Soldiers who are also eligible for the MGIB-SR basic. The basic amount of the MGIB changes based on how many approved courses a person takes each semester.
Does Montgomery GI Bill pay tuition?
The GI Bill will pay the full amount of your tuition once you leave active duty, no matter how much it costs. The only exception is for students who are taking less than half time, who only get enough to cover tuition and fees. Click here to see the current Montgomery GI Bill payment rates.
What can I use my Montgomery GI Bill for?
You can use your Montgomery GI Bill to pay for a lot of things, such as: The Montgomery GI Bill is an education benefit worth over $87,000 The monthly full-time student payment rate for 2024–25 is $2,438. This amount is based on the 36-month limit for a single term of service. This “payment rate” automatically increases each Oct. 1.
When do Montgomery GI bill payment rates increase?
Each year in October, the Montgomery GI Bill payment rates increase to meet the growing cost of education.
Do Montgomery GI Bill recipients get stipends?
Eligible Montgomery GI Bill recipients receive monthly stipends while they are attending classes at a qualified training institution. The checks are payable to the student and not to the school. If your tuition is paid for by corporate benefits, you might be able to save your MGIB payments or use them for something else.
Can I get a Montgomery GI Bill refund?
To find the entitlement charge for things like correspondence, flight training, fast payments for expensive, high-tech courses, and tests for licenses or certifications, divide the amount you received by your MGIB monthly rate for full-time training. You may qualify to get a Montgomery GI Bill refund in limited circumstances.
When can I start using my Montgomery GI Bill?
Click here to see the current Montgomery GI Bill payment rates. Before you can use the Montgomery GI Bill, you have to serve in the military for two years. Those who left the military on Jan. 1, 2013, or later have no time limit to use it.