Tips for Applying Your Military Benefits to College

by Evelyn Allen

Your connection to the military, either through your own military service or that of a family member, means you may be eligible for military education benefits that can help you pay for all or part of your college degree. This guide gives an overview of how the process works for military-connected students, so you can maximize your benefits and apply them toward advancing your education.

What Benefits Do I Qualify For?

Whether you are a military veteran, an active-duty servicemember, or a family member, your benefits eligibility is determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the U.S. Department of Defense. You can call the VA’s education hotline at (888) 442-4551 to find out what you qualify for. You can also visit the VA website to learn more about eligibility for the GI Bill® and other education benefits.

Finding a Yellow Ribbon School

Yellow Ribbon schools like Azusa Pacific University provide additional funding to help eligible veteran students pay for tuition when the VA’s annual contribution runs out. Those who are eligible often have the entire cost of their tuition covered. At APU, if you qualify for Yellow Ribbon and your tuition exceeds the VA’s annual contribution, the Yellow Ribbon funds will be automatically applied to your student account.

Using Military Benefits at Azusa Pacific

With more than 500 military-connected students advancing their education at APU, our staff are committed to serving and supporting you as your pursue higher education. Our dedicated benefits team can also advocate for you and help you get the most out of your entitlement period.

The ROTC Opportunity

If you are a high school or college student who is interested in a career in the military or in learning the leadership and life skills taught through military training, the ROTC program may be for you. Participating in ROTC offers both personal and financial benefits, including scholarships and additional funding support for on-campus housing and meal plans.

If you’ve been awarded military benefits or think you might qualify, connect with APU’s Office of Military and Veteran Education Benefits. They can help you understand how to apply your benefits toward an Azusa Pacific education.