Education & Training Guide
GI Bill, VetTec, apprenticeships, scholarships, and career training for veterans
GI Bill Options
Post-9/11 GI Bill (Most Common)
- Covers 36 months of education
- Up to 100% tuition at public universities
- Housing allowance: $1,000-$2,700+/month depending on location
- Book stipend: $41.83/month per credit hour (max $1,000/year)
- Transferable to spouse/dependents
Montgomery GI Bill
For older veterans: $2,295/month (2026), 36 months coverage
Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP)
For Reserve/Guard: $381/month, 36 months
VetTec Program
Rapid tech training for service-connected disabled vets
- 6 months to 1 year intensive training
- Focus on high-demand tech fields
- Stipends up to $10,680
- Coding bootcamps, cloud computing, cybersecurity
- Job placement assistance included
For service-connected disabilities (any rating)
Paid Apprenticeships
Registered Apprenticeships
Earn while you learn in trades: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, construction
GI Bill Coverage
Most paid apprenticeships covered by GI Bill
Employment Path
Direct job placement after training completion
Union Opportunities
Many union trades have veteran recruitment programs
Veteran Scholarships & Grants
Additional funding sources (beyond GI Bill):
- Student Veterans of America (SVA) - scholarships + support
- VOSB scholarships - if starting business
- Military.com scholarships - database of vet-specific scholarships
- Corporate scholarships - many employers fund vet education
- State-specific programs - varies by state residency
Education Decision Guide
Choosing Between Options:
College Degree? → Use Post-9/11 GI Bill (best value)
Quick Tech Skills? → Consider VetTec if service-connected disabled
Earn While Learn? → Paid apprenticeships in trade
Need Extra Funds? → Layer scholarships + GI Bill for maximum benefit