Does National Guard Get GI Bill?
The GI Bill, also known as the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB), is a educational benefit program for military veterans and their dependents. The program provides financial assistance for education and training, allowing veterans to pursue their educational goals and achieve their career aspirations. But, does the National Guard qualify for the GI Bill? In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide an in-depth look at the benefits and eligibility requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the GI Bill, you must meet certain requirements. The main eligibility criteria are:
- Military Service: You must have served in the military, including the National Guard, for at least 90 days of active duty or 2 years of continuous active duty.
- Honorable Discharge: You must have received an honorable discharge from the military.
- Education Benefits: You must be pursuing an approved education or training program.
National Guard Eligibility
The National Guard is a reserve component of the military, and its members are eligible for the GI Bill. However, there are some differences in the eligibility requirements and benefits compared to active duty military personnel.
- Service Requirements: National Guard members must have served at least 90 days of active duty, including initial active duty for training (IADT), to be eligible for the GI Bill.
- Reserve Component: National Guard members are considered part of the reserve component, which means they are not eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
- Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB): National Guard members are eligible for the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB), which provides up to 36 months of education benefits.
Benefits
The GI Bill provides financial assistance for education and training, including:
- Tuition and Fees: The GI Bill covers up to 100% of tuition and fees at public colleges and universities, and up to $24,476.96 per year at private colleges and universities.
- Housing Allowance: The GI Bill provides a housing allowance based on the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for the zip code where the school is located.
- Book Stipend: The GI Bill provides a book stipend of up to $1,000 per year.
Table: GI Bill Benefits
| Benefit | Maximum Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $24,476.96 per year |
| Housing Allowance | BAH rate for the zip code |
| Book Stipend | $1,000 per year |
How to Apply
To apply for the GI Bill, you must submit a claim to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The application process includes:
- Application Form: You must complete VA Form 22-1990, Application for Education Benefits.
- Proof of Service: You must provide proof of your military service, including your DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty.
- Education Plan: You must provide an education plan, including the school you plan to attend and the program you plan to pursue.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the National Guard is eligible for the GI Bill, but there are some differences in the eligibility requirements and benefits compared to active duty military personnel. The Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) provides financial assistance for education and training, including tuition and fees, housing allowance, and book stipend. If you are a National Guard member considering pursuing higher education, it is essential to understand the eligibility requirements and benefits to make informed decisions about your education and career goals.
Additional Resources
- Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): www.va.gov
- Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB): www.va.gov/education/mgib
- National Guard: www.nationalguard.com
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: How long do I have to serve in the National Guard to be eligible for the GI Bill?
A: You must have served at least 90 days of active duty, including initial active duty for training (IADT), to be eligible for the GI Bill. - Q: Can I use the GI Bill for online courses?
A: Yes, the GI Bill can be used for online courses, but you must ensure that the school is approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). - Q: Can I use the GI Bill for certification programs?
A: Yes, the GI Bill can be used for certification programs, but you must ensure that the program is approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general information purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for legal or professional advice. You should consult with a VA representative or a financial advisor to determine your eligibility for the GI Bill and to discuss your individual circumstances.
