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VA Educational benefits

University of the Southwest is approved to offer GI Bill® Educational Benefits by the New Mexico State Approving Agency. These benefits include the Montgomery GI Bill® (Active Duty/Selected Reserves), the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program, the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, and Veteran Readiness and Employment.

 

If you know you are eligible for one of these benefits, please select the appropriate option for further details. If you are unsure of your eligibility or entitlement, please contact the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs at (888) 442-4551.

Chapter 30: Montgomery GI Bill® Active Duty  

At University of Southwest, we are committed to helping veterans and active-duty service members maximize their educational opportunities under the Montgomery GI Bill® Active Duty (Chapter 30). Here's an overview of the key features of Chapter 30 benefits at USW:

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  • Eligibility: To access Chapter 30 benefits at USW, you should be an eligible veteran or active-duty service member who has served on active duty and meets specific criteria regarding service duration and discharge status.

  • Financial Support: Chapter 30 offers valuable financial assistance to eligible individuals. This includes monthly stipends to help cover living expenses while attending school and any additional benefits you may qualify for.

  • Payment Rates: The payment rates for Chapter 30 benefits at USW vary based on factors such as your enrollment status (full-time, part-time, or less than half-time) and the type of institution you are attending (university, college, technical school, etc.). These rates are typically updated annually.

  • Duration of Benefits: Chapter 30 benefits are available for a maximum of 36 months. It's important to be aware of the duration for which you are eligible to receive these benefits and explore potential extension options, such as the Buy-Up Program.

  • Transfer of Benefits: If you are an active-duty service member, you may have the option to transfer your educational benefits to a spouse or dependent through the Transfer of Entitlement (TOE) program. This allows your family members to access the educational benefits you've earned.

  • Tuition and Fee Reimbursement: USW works in collaboration with the VA to ensure the smooth reimbursement of tuition and fees. Our financial aid office is here to assist you in navigating this process effectively.

  • Certification of Enrollment: To receive Chapter 30 benefits, veterans need to provide the necessary documentation to verify their enrollment for VA benefits. This typically involves notifying the university's VA certifying official.

  • Resources: USW provides access to a comprehensive list of valuable resources, including links to VA regional offices, VA education liaison representatives, and other organizations that specialize in supporting veterans in their educational pursuits.

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At USW, we are honored to support your educational journey. If you have questions or need assistance, please reach out to our veteran services office. Your dedication and service to our country are valued and appreciated, and we are here to ensure that your educational goals are achieved. Your path to a brighter future begins here.

Chapter 31: Veteran Readiness and Employment 

At University of the Southwest, we are committed to supporting veterans with service-connected disabilities in achieving their vocational and educational goals through the VR&E program. Here's an overview of the key features of VR&E at USW:

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  • Eligibility Determination: To be eligible for VR&E benefits at USW, veterans should contact the VA's Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Service to determine their eligibility based on service-connected disabilities creating an employment handicap.

  • Customized Rehabilitation Plan: Once eligibility is confirmed, USW's dedicated VR&E counselors will work closely with veterans to create a customized rehabilitation plan that aligns with their skills, interests, and employment goals.

  • Vocational Rehabilitation Services: USW offers a comprehensive range of vocational rehabilitation services, including vocational training, job placement assistance, apprenticeships, on-the-job training, and more. These services are designed to meet the unique needs of each veteran and help them reach their employment objectives.

  • Educational Opportunities: Veterans enrolled in VR&E at USW have the option to pursue educational opportunities, which can include degree programs, certifications, or vocational training. Our university provides a supportive environment to help veterans succeed in their academic pursuits.

  • Financial Assistance: Eligible veterans may receive financial support to cover education and training expenses, such as tuition, fees, and necessary supplies. The level of financial assistance is determined based on individual circumstances.

  • Period of Entitlement: The duration of VR&E benefits at USW varies based on the specific goals and progress of each veteran. The program is designed to accommodate the time needed for veterans to achieve their vocational and educational objectives.

  • Veteran-Friendly Campus: USW is dedicated to creating a veteran-friendly campus environment, which includes supportive services, accommodations, and resources tailored to the unique needs of veterans with service-connected disabilities.

  • Career Placement Services: USW's VR&E program also provides job placement services to assist veterans in securing suitable employment, ensuring a successful transition into the workforce upon program completion.

  • Follow-Up Support: After veterans successfully complete their vocational or educational programs at USW, follow-up support and services are available to help ensure sustained success in their chosen career path.

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USW is proud to be a part of the VR&E program, supporting veterans in their quest for employment and education. If you are a veteran interested in VR&E benefits at USW, please reach out to our veteran services office to initiate the application process. We are here to assist you in achieving your vocational and educational goals.

Chapter 33: Post-9/11 GI Bill®

University of the Southwest proudly supports veterans and eligible family members in their pursuit of higher education through the Post-9/11 GI Bill® (Chapter 33). Here's an overview of the key features of Chapter 33 benefits at USW:

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  • Eligibility: To access Chapter 33 benefits at USW, you must be an eligible veteran or a family member of an eligible veteran who served active duty after September 10, 2001. Eligibility requirements are determined by the VA.

  • Tuition and Fee Coverage: Chapter 33 benefits at USW cover a significant portion of tuition and fees, making higher education more affordable. The Yellow Ribbon Program may also be available to cover additional expenses.

  • Housing Allowance: Eligible recipients may receive a housing allowance, which is typically based on the cost of living in the area where USW is located. This provides support for your living expenses while pursuing your education.

  • Book and Supply Stipend: USW students may receive a yearly book and supply stipend, helping to offset the costs of required textbooks and materials.

  • Transfer of Benefits: If you are a veteran, you may have the option to transfer your Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits to a spouse or dependent through the Transfer of Entitlement (TOE) program.

  • Certification of Enrollment: To receive Chapter 33 benefits at USW, students need to provide the necessary documentation to verify their enrollment for VA benefits. This is typically done through the university's VA certifying official.

  • Resources: USW offers a range of resources to support veterans and their family members, including access to VA regional offices, VA education liaison representatives, and dedicated veterans' services.

  • Veteran-Friendly Campus: USW is committed to creating a veteran-friendly campus environment, with support services and accommodations tailored to the unique needs of veterans and their family members.

  • Supportive Community: USW provides a supportive community of veterans and veterans' organizations, allowing you to connect with peers who share your experiences and challenges.

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Chapter 33 benefits at USW aim to ensure that veterans and their family members can access quality education while enjoying financial support and a welcoming campus environment. If you have questions or need assistance, please reach out to our veteran services office. We're here to help you achieve your educational goals and make the most of your Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits. Your journey towards a brighter future begins here.

Chapter 35: Dependents’ Education Assistance (DEA) 

University of the Southwest is dedicated to assisting eligible dependents of veterans in their pursuit of higher education through the Dependents’ Education Assistance (DEA) program under Chapter 35. Here's an overview of the key features of Chapter 35 benefits at USW:

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  • Eligibility: To access Chapter 35 DEA benefits at USW, you must be the dependent of an eligible veteran, such as a spouse or child, and meet specific criteria defined by the VA.

  • Financial Support: Chapter 35 benefits at USW provide financial assistance, including tuition and fees, to help dependents attain higher education. The program is designed to make education more accessible and affordable.

  • Duration of Benefits: Eligible dependents can receive Chapter 35 benefits for up to 45 months, allowing for an extended period of support to complete their educational goals.

  • Certification of Enrollment: To receive DEA benefits at USW, dependents need to provide the necessary documentation to verify their enrollment for VA benefits. Typically, this is done through the university's VA certifying official.

  • Transferability: In some cases, veterans can transfer their unused Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits to eligible dependents, further enhancing their access to educational opportunities.

  • Resources: USW offers a range of resources to support dependents of veterans, including access to VA regional offices, VA education liaison representatives, and dedicated veterans' services.

  • Flexible Programs: USW provides a variety of educational programs and degrees, allowing dependents to choose the path that aligns with their career goals and interests.

 

Chapter 35 DEA benefits at USW are designed to assist dependents in achieving their educational aspirations, ensuring that they can access quality education with the financial support necessary for success. If you have questions or need assistance, please reach out to our veteran services office. We are here to help you make the most of your DEA benefits and achieve your educational goals. Your journey towards a brighter future begins here.

Chapter 1606: Montgomery GI Bill® Selected Reserves

University of the Southwest is committed to supporting members of the Selected Reserves in their pursuit of higher education through the Montgomery GI Bill® Selected Reserves program (Chapter 1606). Here's an overview of the key features of Chapter 1606 benefits at USW:

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  • Eligibility: To access Chapter 1606 benefits at USW, you must be a member of the Selected Reserves, including the Army National Guard, Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, Coast Guard Reserve, or the Army National Guard.

  • Financial Support: Chapter 1606 benefits at USW provide financial assistance, including monthly educational stipends, to help cover the costs of education and living expenses.

  • Training and Drilling Obligations: To maintain eligibility for Chapter 1606 benefits, you must meet specific training and drilling obligations as a member of the Selected Reserves. This program is designed to support both your military service and educational pursuits.

  • Payment Rates: The payment rates for Chapter 1606 benefits at USW are determined based on the number of training days completed and your enrollment status (full-time, part-time, or less than half-time).

  • Certification of Enrollment: To receive Chapter 1606 benefits at USW, you need to provide the necessary documentation to verify your enrollment for VA benefits, typically through the university's VA certifying official.

  • Resources: USW offers a range of resources to support members of the Selected Reserves, including access to VA regional offices, VA education liaison representatives, and dedicated veterans' services.

  • Flexible Programs: USW provides a variety of educational programs and degrees, allowing members of the Selected Reserves to choose the educational path that aligns with their career goals and interests.

 

Chapter 1606 benefits at USW are designed to assist members of the Selected Reserves in achieving their educational goals, ensuring that they can access quality education while balancing their military service obligations. If you have questions or need assistance, please reach out to our veteran services office. We are here to help you make the most of your Montgomery GI Bill® Selected Reserves benefits and achieve your educational goals. Your journey towards a brighter future begins here.

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