New Post-9/11 GI Bill Rates Take Effect Aug. 1

Veterans and eligible family members using the Post-9/11 GI Bill will see updated tuition rates and housing allowances beginning Aug. 1.

The new rates apply to education and training completed between Aug. 1 and July 31, 2027. Students attending a public college or university may continue to receive coverage for net in-state tuition and mandatory fees when they qualify for the full benefit.

For private colleges, foreign universities, and approved non-college degree programs, the maximum annual payment will increase to $30,908.34. The limit for approved flight training will rise to $17,661.89, while the maximum for correspondence courses will increase to $15,012.59.

Monthly housing payments for students attending classes in person will be based on the 2026 military Basic Allowance for Housing rate for an E-5 with dependents. The amount is determined by the ZIP code where the student physically attends most of their classes. Housing payments can vary widely across California. Students attending schools in Los Angeles, San Diego, or the San Francisco Bay Area may receive a different amount than those attending campuses in areas with lower housing rates.

Students taking all of their classes online may receive up to $1,261 per month. Those attending a foreign college or university may receive up to $2,522 per month.

Taking at least one qualifying class in person while completing other courses online may allow a student to receive the location-based housing rate instead of the lower online-only rate. The class must meet VA requirements for in-person instruction.

Eligible students may also receive up to $1,000 each academic year for books and supplies. College students may receive up to $41.67 per credit hour for as many as 24 credits during the academic year.

Not every student will receive the maximum amount. Payments may be reduced based on the eligibility tier and the student’s course load. Those at a lower eligibility tier will receive a percentage of the full benefit.

A student’s rate of pursuit must be more than 50% to qualify for a monthly housing allowance. The payment may be reduced when the student is not enrolled full time.

Spouses using transferred Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits are not eligible for a monthly housing allowance while the service member remains on active duty.

VA sends tuition and fee payments directly to the school. Housing allowances and book stipends are generally paid to the student.

Veterans and eligible dependents preparing for the fall term should review their enrollment information and confirm that their school submitted the correct certification to VA. Students should also ask their school’s certifying official how each in-person, online, or hybrid course was reported because that certification can affect the housing payment.

The complete 2026–27 Post-9/11 GI Bill rates are available through VA. Questions about eligibility or payments can be submitted through ask.va.gov or directed to the VA Education Call Center at 888-442-4551.

Free G.I. Bill Assistance From Accredited VSOs

Veterans or Military Families seeking more information on G.I. Bill or other VA benefits can reach out to an accredited American Legion Veterans Service Officer. Claims assistance is free––a Legion membership is not required.