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Vet

Guide for Veterans; Utilizing Your Benefits after Military Service

Programs to Support Veterans Education

The educational assistance programs offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) depend on the period of duty service. DVA oversees educational assistance programs each having its own eligibility criteria. Determining eligibility for assistance is primarily done by DVA although there are cases where the military plays a role in this determination. It is crucial to identify the program that a student may qualify for as it will impact the benefits available and the types of education programs that can be certified by DVA.

The primary categories of educational assistance programs to schools and training institutions are as follows;

  1. Montgomery G.I. Bill. Active Duty (Chapter 30)
  2. Montgomery G.I. Bill. Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)
  3. Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP. Chapter 32)
  4. Dependents Educational Assistance Program (Chapter 35)

For information, about these programs, including eligibility requirements, benefits and more please visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Education Service website.

As you transition from life you might wonder about your next steps.
To address your query you might seek details regarding education, training or career guidance. This aims to provide an overview of how to pursue such information effectively.

Having a sense of where to find information and asking the questions are crucial in obtaining accurate answers that will pave the way for success as you navigate towards your professional aspirations be it in education, careers or beyond.

Remember, having access to information is pivotal when making decisions about your future as you transition from life to civilian life.

The commonly asked question is; How do I begin?

Start by asking yourself; Do I have an idea of what I want to pursue?

If the answer is yes then consider if additional education or training is required.

If the answer is no there are resources to assist you in determining your next steps.

There are types of educational programs approved for veterans benefits that you may want to consider. Depending on your eligibility criteria you can utilize your VA benefits at any of the following institutions;

Colleges and universities; These institutions, in Connecticut exclusively offer collegiate programs and grant degrees. Private occupational or trade schools are institutions that specialize in providing short term programs focused on specific occupations. These programs aim to prepare students for entry level employment in their chosen career paths.

Cosmetology and hairdressing schools are dedicated institutions that offer collegiate programs exclusively focused on the barbering and hairdressing industry. Graduates from these schools can pursue entry level positions in this field.

Hospitals provide collegiate programs in nursing and allied health, including radiology and paramedic training. They also offer graduate medical residencies for further specialization.

High schools or regional technical schools offer a range of programs, including high school diploma and GED programs. They also provide diploma occupational specialty programs such as auto repair, carpentry, welding and health careers. These programs aim to equip students with the skills needed for entry level employment in their chosen fields.

On the job training (OJT). Apprenticeship programs are designed to teach individuals the necessary skills for a specific occupation or skilled trade with the goal of achieving journeyman status. Employers must seek approval to participate in these training programs.

If you’re looking for information, about options a reliable source is the Connecticut Department of Labor.

By Jayson Peterson

Jayson Peterson is an experienced pharmacist, naturopathic physician, medical examiner, and minister. After earning his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the Medical University of South Carolina, Jayson Peterson completed clinical rotations at several prestigious healthcare institutions and has been affiliated with several pharmacy chains throughout his career. His main passion and zeal is focused on providing world-class patient care by giving precise details and thorough instructions to those who need it most.