Changes for VA Education Benefit Users

Spring 2023

There are four major changes to be aware of as you plan your spring semester schedule.

1. In-Person Classes — Unless congress passes a new law, the exceptions that have allowed you to be certified in some classes as “in person” even though they were taught online will expire in December. This means, that if you are using Post 9/11 Gi Bill or VR&E CH 31 for the spring term, you must be enrolled in at least one actual face-to-face on-site class to get the normal housing allowance rate. This is reverting to pre-COVID rules. To view the spring class schedule, please go here: Class Schedule
2. W and NP Grades — Beginning with Spring 2022, W an NP grades will be reported as non-punitive grades. This means that if you withdraw from a class or earn a “No Pass” grade, the VA could re-calculate your semester benefits as if you were never enrolled in the class and send you a debt letter accordingly. This is a significant change that we are advocating against. Unfortunately, as of now, it looks like the VA is going to insist on this change.
3. Self-Verify Enrollment — Starting with Spring 2022, the VA is implementing a provision of the Isakson and Roe law that passed back in January. All students using Post 9/11 Gi Bill will be required to self-certify their own enrollment every month. The easiest way to do this will be via text message. If you have a cell phone number on file with the VA, you should get a message asking you to “opt in” within the next few months. If you don’t have a cell # on file with the VA, call 888-442-4551 and ask if you can add your cell phone #.

We know this is a lot to take in. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out Senior Veterans Specialist.