Early Separation and the GI Bill

-- GI Bill Tip #12

Using your GI Bill education benefits depends on completion of a minimum amount of continuous active duty service. Those who separate before that minimum period aren't eligible for the MGIB, but there are some exceptions to that rule. Those who are separated for the convenience of the government may still be eligible, as are those who were discharged under a reduction in force (RIF).

Additionally, your GI Bill education benefits may still be available if you were discharged for a pre-existing medical condition. Don't assume you aren't eligible because you separated early! Get some expert advice from the VA and let them decide whether you meet the criteria or not.


The Art Institute of Pittsburgh -- Online Division	DeVry University	AIU Online	University of Phoenix

Featured GI Bill School

University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix Online offers a 20% tuition discount for undergraduate programs and a 20% discount for graduate programs to all active duty military members, all members of the Selective Reserve, and their spouses. This discount is not applicable for members of the Individual Ready Reserve, the Standby Reserve, or the Retired Reserve. Other categories may receive tuition discounts, so please check with your Military Enrollment Advisor for details.

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Financing Your Education

You have several options available. Cash and credit cards are always popular. Federal financial aid is available, but if you participated in the Montgomery GI Bill, you have a much better option. If you’re active duty, a recent change to federal law allows you to use military Tuition Assistance and supplement it with your GI Bill educational benefit.

Servicemember's Opportunity College (SOC)

The University of Phoenix Online is a longtime member of SOC, one of approximately 1,550 schools currently affiliated. The University of Phoenix Online will even accept your military training for college credit, as long as the credits apply to your chosen degree program.

PCS and the University of Phoenix

You can continue with your degree program at University of Phoenix Online from anywhere in the world as long as you have access to the Internet. In fact, if you have a laptop, there’s no reason why you can’t go to school during your PCS.

When You Leave the Military

To ensure that Universith of Phoenix programs provide the skills and expertise that are in high demand, the curriculum based on the current needs of industry. Faculty is drawn from among the leaders of that industry to provide the most valuable, real-world education possible. The curriculum is continually updated to reflect the latest proven concepts, methods, and practices.