Post 9/11 GI Bill changes take effect

  • Published
  • By Brannen Parrish
  • 931 ARG Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Changes that allow greater flexibility for students who receive Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits took effect, Oct. 1.

The changes allow students to use the bill for non-college degree programs at public, private and foreign schools. They also provide stipends for supplies, payments for on-the-job training, apprenticeships, flight programs and correspondence courses.

One benefit Guard and Reserve member will find particularly helpful is the housing allowance for students who are not on active duty, said Kristen Adkins, Education and Training Specialist, 931st Air Refueling Group.

"Students enrolled in online classes will now receive half of the national average BAH as payment," said Adkins. "Previously this benefit was only payable to those attending classes in residence. Since we have a lot of students taking advantage of distance learning programs, this is a nice change for our folks."

The housing allowance is equal to one half of the national average basic allowance for housing for an E-5 with dependents. With so many educational benefits available to military members, 931st ARG Airmen are encouraged to take advantage of off duty education.

"The educational benefits made available to all military members provide a tremendous opportunity for Airmen to continue in lifelong learning," said Col. William H. Mason, Commander, 931st Air Refueling Group. "I encourage all of our Airmen to take advantage of the opportunity to continue their education."

For more information about changes to the Post 9/11 GI Bill, visit http://www.gibill.va.gov/documents/factsheets/Changes_to_Post-911_GI_Bill_Fact_Sheet.pdf.