No. Department of Defense (DoD) Tuition Assistance (TA) is not a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefit.
DoD TA programs are available only to actively serving members in all military branches, including National Guard and Reserve components.
The VA is a separate federal cabinet department and does not administer or monitor DoD TA. However, in some cases, DoD TA can be used in conjunction with VA education benefits. Concurrent use of TA with certain chapters of the GI Bill is sometimes referred to as a "Top-Up," where VA funds supplement costs not covered by the TA program.
If you have questions about DoD TA, your first point of contact should be the Education Services Officer (ESO) at the education Office on your assigned military installation. Your ESO can answer specific questions about your military branch's TA process, determine eligibility, and help you through the application process.
Frequently asked questions
What if you thought Tuition Assistance was a VA education benefit?
DoD TA and VA education benefits both provide educational assistance, but are administered by two separate federal cabinet departments. If you are unsure if you are eligible for DoD or VA benefits or unsure which you should use, please contact our Vet Success on Campus (VSOC)
What if you have questions about your Tuition Assistance benefits?
For questions about eligibility for TA and the application process for your military branch, service members should contact their Education Service Officer (ESO), the Military Education Office at their assigned military installation.
Additional information
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