Apprenticeship or On-the-Job Training: An Alternative Way to Use Your G.I. Bill Benefits

This program is available to veterans and to current Guard and Reserve servicemembers. If you are receiving training on the job or you are in an apprentice program, you can receive 75% of the regular G.I. Bill payments in addition to your regular salary!

OTJ training rates pay out at $825.75 per month for the first six months, $605.55 for the next six months, and 385.35 for any remaining training. Reserve and Guard service members receive a payout starting at $262.65, which similarly decreases with time.

How Can I Qualify for the G.I. Bill Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training Program?

Your job must meet the following:

• Supervision is required at least 50% of the time.
• The OTJ training must lead to an entry-level position—not a management position.
• You must be compensated as a full-time employee—commission payments do not qualify.
• You must be new to your occupation or field. If you already have experience in the position, you do not qualify.
• All training must be documented and reported as directed.
• Your hire date must fall within two years of your training (new hire status).
• The position must require at least six months of training.
• Your position must be through a private company or state or local government.

Additionally, the following must be true:

• Your active duty as has ended.
• Recently, you were hired or promoted to a new position.
• The length of time since you left active duty service is less than ten years, or
• You are currently in the Guard or Reserve.

Note: You cannot simultaneously use this benefit while using your G.I. Bill for other educational purposes. However, if you completed OTJ training during the past twelve months, you may be eligible for retroactive payments.

To take advantage of this benefit contact your local VA Regional Office .