Am I Eligible?
You may be eligible if you served at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11, 2001, or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. Servicemembers must serve at least 36 months on active duty to receive 100% of this benefit. Those with between 90 days to 35 months of active duty receive a prorated benefit based on active duty time. You must have received an honorable discharge to be eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill®.
The transferability option under the Post-9/11 GI Bill allows Servicemembers to transfer all or some unused benefits to their spouse or dependent children. The request to transfer unused GI Bill benefits to eligible dependents must be completed while serving as an active member of the Armed Forces through milConnect. The Department of Defense (DoD) determines whether or not you can transfer benefits to your family. Once the DoD approves benefits for transfer, the new beneficiaries apply to use the benefits through VA. To find out more, visit VA's website.
Visit the VA's Education website for the most up to date information about the Post-9/11 GI Bill® including information about the Forever GI Bill®- Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act and Isakson and Roe Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020 and how they may affect your benefits.
What does the benefit pay?
- Up to VA’s annual tuition cap for private institutions, plus additional Yellow Ribbon funding (if applicable).
- A monthly housing allowance.
- Up to $1,000 a year for books.
If your eligibility percentage is below 100%, all payments will be prorated at your percentage level.
What do I need to do to use my benefits at SMU?
Submit Online to VA
Submit to Registrar’s Office
How to Submit Documents
Email: vabenefits@smu.edu
In Person: Laura Lee Blanton Building, Room 101
Street address: 6185 Airline Road Dallas, TX 75205
Mailing Address:
Registrar's Office
Attn: VA Certifying Official
PO Box 750181
Dallas, TX 75275-0181
