Veterans Benefits

Questions and Answers about Veterans Benefits

• How do I apply for my Educational Veterans Benefits?
  • You can apply for your benefits online at www.gibill.va.gov (opens new window).
• What type of information do I need to apply for Veterans Benefits?
  • You will need your DD-214 and banking information in order to set up direct deposit.
• How do I contact VA if I have any questions?
  • Contact the VA at (888) 442-4551.
• What are the different types of benefits that I can apply for?
  • The different types of benefits that you could qualify for are Chapter 30, Chapter 33, and Chapter 1606. You can learn more about the different types of benefits at www.gibill.va.gov (opens new window) or come by the Enrollment Services One Stop Center.
• Do I need to bring anything to SOWELA after I apply for my benefit?
  • Yes, you will need to bring in your Certificate of Eligibility once you receive it from VA, which could take up to six weeks to receive it after you apply for benefits.
• How do I receive my monthly benefits?
  • Monthly benefits will be direct deposited into your banking account that you listed on your application.
• Are all programs offered at SOWELA eligible for VA Benefits?
  • All credit-bearing programs are eligible for VA benefits at this time. Programs offered through Workforce Solutions are ineligible for VA benefits.
• When will enrollment be sent to VA for processing?
  • Enrollment will be certified once the school certifying official receives the SOWELA Enrollment Verification form. A new form must be submitted for each semester the veteran enrolls.
• How long will it take to start receiving my benefits after my enrollment has been sent to VA?
  • It could take up to six weeks to process enrollment at the beginning of the semester since VA is generally overwhelmed with enrollment certification.
• Do I have to call and verify my enrollment at the end of the month?
  • Only if you are using Chapters 30, 35, 1606, or 1607. You will need to call (888) 442-4551 or go online at www.gibill.va.gov (opens new window) and click on Verify Attendance.
• What does National Guard Tuition Exemption cover?
  • It will only exempt tuition not the fees that a student is charged.
• Are all the programs offered at SOWELA eligible for National Guard Tuition Exemption?
  • All credit-bearing programs are eligible for VA benefits at this time. Programs offered through Workforce Solutions are ineligible for VA benefits.
• Can I take online classes and receive my VA benefit?
  • Yes, you can take online classes and receive your VA benefit. If you are using Chapter 33 and take online classes then your housing allowance will be prorated. Please come by the Enrollment Services One Stop Center, and we can discuss this with you.
• Can I receive any other financial aid while receiving my VA benefit?
  • Yes, you could receive other financial aid. SOWELA participates in the federal pell grant that you could apply for by filling out FAFSA (opens new window). SOWELA does not participate in the federal student loan program.
• If you have any other questions, please come by the Enrollment Services One Stop Center for assistance.