Enlisting in the military allows a person a number of advantages. One of the best advantages for people who want to enlist in the military is the possible educational benefits. Many people are aware of the educational benefits available, and many of these benefits are available directly after a person separates from the military. Thousands of soldiers have used benefits in both the active duty and reserve capacity to fund their education. There are several different programs that are available for military Servicepersons.
Montgomery GI Bill- The Montgomery GI bill first came into being in the 1940s to help men and women returning from World War II. There have been many program advances and changes since then, and it is a program that continues to progress and be refined by Congress, most recently in 2005, and 2006. It provides for their education after they get out of the military. While on Active duty service, the soldier agrees to pay $100 dollars a month for a year. After that, when the Servicemember gets out of the service they receive up to $1,101 a month toward their education. This money is available for up to 36 months for educational programs, in either military or civilian related schooling or training. Most colleges assist with different types of educational funding for military personnel.
VEAP- Veterans Educational Assistance. This is a program that is for older soldiers, soldiers near the end of their commitment that have been enlisted in the Military for several years. It is the program that provides for qualified veterans that have served for at least 24 months. It provides for educational assistance for up to 36 months.
DEA- This is the Survivors and Dependent Educational Assistance program, for those dependents that survive a Servicemember who is deceased, or dependents of a Servicemember that has been severely disabled by military related service. Along with this program is a sub program for children of anyone who has been a prisoner of war. Dependents of Servicemembers that have been POW’s can qualify for educational benefits completely free of charge in some cases. The age of dependants that are covered under this program is from age 17 to age 26 years of age. It can be used toward a 4 year education.
