It is a daunting task to analyze, interpret, and implement federal financial aid regulations these days. Hopefully the information I provide will help you understand and locate the financial aid you need to earn your online degree.
A while back I covered the "New GI-Bill", officially called the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. If you recall, this new bill will pay up to 100% of the highest paid in-state undergraduate tuition for qualified students. But what if you're enrolled in a private school, or you are a graduate student, or you enrolled in a college as a non-resident and your tuition expenses exceed the highest paid in-state undergraduate tuition? Depending on which school you attend, you could receive additional assistance.
The Yellow Ribbon Program can allow qualified veterans to receive additional assistance provided by the college and Veterans Administration. Colleges have the choice to enter into an agreement to waive up to 50% of the exceeding highest in-state tuition charges, and the VA will match the college's percentage. Keep in mind that not all students may benefit:
- When enrolling in the Program, colleges must indicate how many students will benefit, and the Program is on a first-come, first-served basis
- Student must be qualified and in the first-come, first-served pool of applicants
- Student must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress, conduct, and attendance
The Yellow Ribbon Program begins on or after August 1, 2009. Remember, this is based on your qualification and whether or not you are paying tuition that exceeds the highest in-state tuition rate. Colleges must establish procedures for applying to this Program. I doubt that too many colleges have their procedures in place (I know we don't) if you were to inquire now.
This is a very broad overview of the Yellow Ribbon Program because of the detailed requirements. If you think you qualify please go to the Yellow Ribbon Program website to get additional information. This site also has a link to the "New GI-Bill" requirements. Please check into these programs if you have served active duty post 9-11.
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About ter
I have been a financial aid advisor for nearly 25 years now! Time really does fly. Like other e-learners, I acquired my Bachelor of Arts degree and my Master of Science degree while working full time and raising a family. My coursework consisted of classroom instruction, online and independent study courses, and weekend classes.
I began in financial aid as a secretary, and have worked my way to senior level financial aid advisor at a public four year college in the Midwest. When I began in 1984, we did not have computers, so I have seen the evolution of technology and its impact on education and financial aid.
My husband and I have four children in our household. My daughter and stepson are both in college. My son and stepdaughter are high school freshman.
I look forward to being a part of eLearners.com and given the chance to educate students, especially “non-traditional” students, on the ins-and-outs of financial aid. It is a daunting task to analyze, interpret, and implement federal financial aid regulations these days. Hopefully the information I provide will help.