Definitions

Advance Pay

Advance payment provides funds at the beginning of a school term to help the student meet expenses such as tuition, fees and books. Veteran students interested in advance pay must be enrolled at least half-time and must request such payment no more than 120 and no less than 30 days from the start of the enrollment period (start day of first class). Advance payment will be for the amount of benefits payable for the initial and following month of the semester. No other benefits will be received until the third month after the start of class.

Break Pay

Break pay are benefit amounts paid between two semesters, quarters or terms. Veteran students do not need to request break pay. The VA will pay automatically unless directed not to by the student. Students are not guaranteed break pay. Payment for breaks will be determined by VA rules and regulations.

Certification

Certification is the process by which the school notifies the VA of a veteran student's enrollment that may be eligible for VA educational benefit payment. Students must request certification each enrollment period.

Concurrent Enrollment

Veteran students may be eligible to enroll and receive benefits for attending more than one college or university. The student must establish a parent school (generally the school where they intend to complete their Degree Plan). The student must then inform Veteran Services at the parent school of his/her intention to enroll at another college (supplemental school) either on a part-time basis or for a full semester. The parent school will then direct the student and supplemental school on the process for benefit certification.

Direct Deposit

Veterans may choose to receive their educational benefit payments via direct deposit to their bank checking accounts. This service may be requested at the time of application or may be established via phone at 1-877-838-2778. Forms are also available at the Veteran Services Office, located in the Student Services Building.

Enrollment Verifications-VA Monthly

The VA Regional Processing Office requires that veterans receiving educational benefits (Ch 30 & 1606) verify enrollment each month via the internet or phone. This is to ensure that the veteran is being paid properly and to avoid over/under payment of benefits. If required, verify enrollment by phone at 1-877-823-2378 or on-line at https://www.gibill.va.gov/wave/. Please note that veteran students receiving Ch 1607, 31 & 35 benefits do not need to verify monthly enrollment.

Remedial & Deficiency Courses

Remedial or deficiency courses which are specifically required for pursuit of a post-secondary program of education or to overcome a deficiency in a particular area of study may be certified for purposes of VA educational benefits.