Please know that applying for your VA educational benefits can be a long process
from start to finish. It is best to start the paperwork as early as possible to ensure
that the processing of your benefits is complete well in advance of the start of each
semester. Please use our step by step guide below:
In general, students may apply for benefits under one of the following chapters associated
with VA educational benefits:
Note: If you are eligible for Chapter 33 - Post 9/11 GI Bill ® at the 100% rate, or
Chapter 31 - Voc Rehab you will not be eligible for state aid awards (TAP/VTA or DoD
TA).
Armed Forces Tuition Assistance (TA):
Benefits paid to eligible members of the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast
Guard. Each service has its own criteria for eligibility, obligated service, application
processes, and restrictions. The money is usually paid directly by the service branch
to the college.
Have your DD-214 available - if you do not have your DD-214, you may obtain it through
the Veteran Records Archives.
If choosing direct deposit for your benefits delivery, be sure to have your bank account
number and routing number ready. If you do not have account information at time of
application, you can always update the VA later by calling the VA Educational Hotline
1-888-442-4551 or following the instructions to change or update your VA direct deposit.
Once the VA processes your claim, you should receive a Certificate of Eligibility
in the mail. (If you receive a denial letter and are unsure as to why, please contact
the VA at 1-888-442-4551.) Bring your Certificate of Eligibility and DD-214 to the Veteran Services Office.
Admissions - If you are a new student, transfer student, or re-admitting student,
you should apply for admission to the college. You can apply online or print out the application.
Request your official high school transcripts and/or GED scores and diploma.
Request your official college transcripts if you have attended another college besides
MCC.
Placement testing - If you are asked to take the placement test, you can look up the
days and times the test is offered, as well as sample questions Testing Services site.
Program Advisement and Registration - Once you are accepted, you can register with
an Academic Advisor or the Department in which your major is held.
Here are ourmost commonly askedquestions about VA Benefits.
Not always — but it’s strongly recommended. That’s because completing your FAFSA can
unlock additional grants, work-study, or other aid that may help cover costs your
VA benefits don’t.
Apply as early as possible—ideally before registration opens. Early certification
helps ensure your benefits are processed and applied before the semester begins.
You don’t usually need to reapply through the VA each semester, but you do need to
request certification with MCC every term so your enrollment can be reported to the
VA.
Schedule changes can affect your benefits. If you add, drop, or withdraw from a course,
contact Veteran Services right away so your certification can be updated and you can
avoid overpayments.
Yes. Eligible dependents may qualify for programs like Survivors’ and Dependents’
Educational Assistance (DEA). MCC Veteran Services can help you understand eligibility
and next steps.
