Media Center

Today, Rep. Scott announced that Iraq and Afghanistan veterans can now begin signing up for benefits under the New GI Bill.  The “Post-9/11 GI Bill” was enacted last year to restore the promise of a full, four-year college education for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and will take effect on August 1, 2009.  As of May 1, 2009, veterans may begin applying for a certificate of eligibility for the new college benefits.  

“I am proud to salute the brave men and women who have served this country in Iraq and Afghanistan by fulfilling this nations’ promise to provide access to education assistance in return of their service,” stated Scott.  “While in Congress I have remained a champion for our troops, supporting measures for equipment and resources and praying for their success and safe return home.  As the Obama administration puts forth a plan to bring our soldiers home safely, I cannot think of a better way to support and thank our soldiers than to provide the educational tools that will help improve their lives and support their families.”

Generally, the GI Bill provides up to four years of education benefits at a college or university for individuals with at least 90 days of active duty service on or after September 11, 2001 and who have been honorably discharged from service.  The benefits are correlated on a sliding scale to years served and to receive full benefits, you must have served on active duty for three years.  Additionally, benefits are usually payable for up to 15 years following release from active duty.  The GI program pays for the following:

• Tuition and fees of up to the maximum in-state tuition or fees at a public institution in your state;
• A monthly housing allowance at the location of the school, based on the Basic Allowance for Housing for an E-5 with dependents; and
• An annual books and supplies stipend of up to $1,000.

For more information on the Post 9/11 GI Bill and/or to apply for a certificate of eligibility, visit www.gibill.va.gov.

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