Chapter 30 VA Benefits: Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty Program-MGIB is popularly known as Chapter 30, a significant program designed and managed by the United States of America Department of Defense (DoD). This program is meant for veterans or those who have been on active duty wishing to pursue advanced education or attend a professional career-related course.
Under this program, a certain amount of money for education will be given to the individual every month for 36 months. The amount is dependent upon the time the individual studied and the enrollment status, that is, how long and how many hours they were studying.
ALSO READ: UK £250 Cost of Living Payment to Be Credited in April 2025
How much amount is available under Chapter 30?
Under the MGIB-AD program, a person studying full-time is given assistance of up to $2,438 per month, if attending on a college, university, or non-degree course full-time. However, if the enrollment is less, the payment is decreased accordingly.
How about benefits for 1/4-time or less?
For someone who is in a bona fide program of education 1/4-time or less, he shall be entitled for $609.50 per month, provided his tuition and fees are more than that amount.
- If your tuition and fees are anything less than $609.50, the VA will give you a complete cash payment at the start of the course. That is, your fees will be paid all at once.
- For instance: if you are taking a 90-day education program with 1/4-time enrollment, you will receive around $1,828.50 ($609.50 per month for 3 months).
But, if your tuition and fees were worth $1,500, then VA would give you a lump sum at the start of that.
How does it work for on-the-job and apprenticeship training?
Under Chapter 30, payment declines as one advances through the on-the-job training or apprenticeship program.
The rate of payment:
- First 6 months: $1,828.50 per month
- From 7th to 12th months: $1,340.90 per month
- After 12 months: $853.30 per month
This indicates that as your training continues and you become more competent, the amount of support given to you by the government reduces.
Who is eligible?
To qualify for Chapter 30 benefits, an applicant must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- A minimum of two years of active duty must have been completed.
- An Honorable Discharge must have been awarded.
- The applicant should possess a high school diploma or GED.
- He must have taken education at an institution recognized by the VA.
Eligible education or course types under this benefit?
- College degree programs (Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s)
- Non-degree programs
- Professional and vocational training
- On-the-job training and apprenticeship programs
- Flight training
- Certain certifications and licensing exams
How to apply for Chapter 30 benefits?
To apply, you will complete Form 22-1990 (Application for VA Education Benefits) from the official VA website at va.gov. Along with this application, you will also submit some information about your service.
Important tips:
- Select direct deposit – it gets you the money faster.
- Communicate with the education institution – the VA sends the payments to them.
- Check tuition and fees ahead of time – that way you can know if you will receive a lump sum payment or monthly payment.
Conclusion: Choose your career pathway
Chapter 30 VA Benefits is a golden opportunity to build upon your career and education, particularly if you’re looking at studying 1/4-time or less instead of full-time. The program allows you to continue with schooling while balancing work and other life commitments.
For veterans asking themselves which way to go next, this plan could come in handy for you. Get the right information together and maximize this opportunity.
FAQs
Q1. What is 1/4-time enrollment under Chapter 30 VA Benefits?
A. 1/4-time enrollment typically means taking 3 credit hours or less in a standard college semester. It’s considered minimal enrollment and is less than half-time.
Q 2. Do I still get benefits under Chapter 30 if I enroll for 1/4-time or less?
A. Yes, you can still receive benefits, but at a reduced rate compared to full-time or half-time enrollment.
Q3. How much money will I receive for 1/4-time enrollment or less in 2025?
A. The monthly benefit for 1/4-time or less is based on your tuition and fees only, and paid directly to you. For example, if tuition is low, the payment may be proportionally low.