The Post-9/11 GI Bill, officially known as Chapter 33 VA benefits, remains one of the most impactful education assistance programs available to U.S. veterans.
Read: Breaking Down VA Benefits Chapters: Your Complete Guide to GI Bill & More
Covering college tuition, housing, books, and more, it gives service members and their families a strong financial foundation as they transition to civilian life.
But to access 100% of these benefits in 2025, veterans must meet specific service benchmarks and discharge requirements set by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
You might be missing out on benefits! Check what’s available to you here.
Who Qualifies for Full 100% Benefits
As of 2025, veterans must have:
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Served at least 36 cumulative months of qualifying active duty service since September 11, 2001, or
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Received a Purple Heart during service after 9/11 (full benefits apply regardless of time served), or
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Completed at least 30 continuous days of active duty before discharge due to a service-connected disability.
Those who served for shorter periods may still be eligible for partial benefits, calculated as a percentage based on their total active service time.
What 100% Coverage Includes
Receiving 100% of Chapter 33 benefits can significantly ease the financial burden of education. Coverage includes:
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Full tuition and mandatory fees at public in-state universities
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Coverage at private or foreign schools up to a $29,920.95 annual cap for the 2025–26 academic year
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A monthly housing allowance equal to the Basic Allowance for Housing of an E-5 with dependents (based on the school’s ZIP code)
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Up to $1,000 annually for books and supplies ($41.67 per credit hour)
Additional support may include reimbursement for licensing exams, relocation assistance for veterans from rural areas, and tutoring funds.
Important Enrollment Conditions
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Veterans must attend a VA-approved institution.
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Must maintain satisfactory academic progress as defined by the school and the VA.
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Online-only students are eligible for half the standard housing allowance.
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Enrollment must be more than half-time to receive any housing payments.
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