Q:I am enrolled in class now for 12 credits. Can I apply now to pay for these classes?

A: You can. If you are using the Post 9/11 GI Bill, it probably would have went a little smoother if you would have applied for benefits first and then registered. Why? Because then you would have had your Certificate of Eligibility at the time you registered.  Now you will have to bring it to school to ensure they know you are eligible and intend to use your GI Bill benefits. If you are using the Montgomery GI Bill, then it shouldn’t make much difference.

You can apply for benefits by submitting VA Form 22-1990 either online, at the VONAPP Website, or download the form and submit it according to the instructions on the form. As you know, if you are using the MGIB, then you will get up to $1,368 per month and you have to pay all your own expenses. If you are using the Post 9/11 GI Bill, then the VA will pay your tuition directly to your school, up to the in-state maximum. If your tuition costs more, then you would have to pay the difference. You would get paid a monthly housing allowance and a book stipend.