Office of Military & Veterans Services (OMVS)

Table of Contents

• VA Education Benefits
• Using Your Benefits at Howard
• Financial Aid & Payments
• Admissions & Enrollment
• Additional Questions

VA Education Benefits

What are the different VA benefits I can use at Howard University?

Veterans and military-connected students can use a variety of benefits. You must apply for each benefit through the VA and receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) before you can use them.

Here are some of the most used benefits:

• Chapter 33 (Post-9/11): Includes a book stipend, monthly housing allowance (MHA), and payments for tuition and fees. You may also be eligible for the Yellow Ribbon program. You must verify your enrollment monthly directly with the VA.
• Chapter 33 – Transfer of Entitlement: Qualified dependents of active duty or Selected Reserve members may be able to have Post-9/11 benefits transferred to them. You may also be eligible for the Yellow Ribbon program. You must verify your enrollment monthly directly with the VA.
• Fry Scholarships: For children and spouses of certain Veterans who died in the line of duty. This benefit also offers a book stipend, monthly housing allowance, and tuition payments. Recipients are also eligible for the Yellow Ribbon program and must verify their enrollment monthly with the VA.
• Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship: An extension for Post-9/11 GI Bill or Fry Scholarship benefits for students in high-demand fields.
• Chapter 35 (Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance): Provides a monthly housing allowance.
• Chapter 1606 (Montgomery Selected Reserve): Provides a monthly housing allowance. You must report enrollment via WAVE to receive payments.
• Chapter 30 (Montgomery Active Duty): Provides a monthly housing allowance and may offer tutoring assistance. You must report enrollment via WAVE to receive payments.
• Chapter 31 (Veteran Readiness and Employment - VR&E): Provides a book and supplies voucher, tuition and fee support, a monthly stipend/housing allowance, and other support as recommended by your VR&E counselor.

You can find a more detailed list of benefits on the VA's website and use the VA's online comparison tool to see what each benefit covers.

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Using Your Benefits at Howard

How do I apply to use my benefits at Howard?

To use your benefits, you must be certified by the university. An online Certification Request will be available on this website before each semester. Complete this as soon as you are enrolled in classes. Be aware that holds on your account can delay your enrollment and, therefore, your certification.

What is a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?

The Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is a document from the VA that proves you've been approved for benefits. You need to have a COE on file with the university to process your benefits. All students except those using Chapter 31 must have a COE.

If you are a Chapter 31 student, your VR&E counselor must send a Purchase Order (PO) to Howard for tuition and fees and to the Howard Bookstore for books and supplies.

If you need a replacement COE, you can use the Ask VA tool online or call the VA helpline at (888) 442-4551.

How does the certification process work?

Howard University follows a two-step certification process:

1. Early Certification: Before the semester starts, you'll be certified to ensure timely payments. You'll receive an email from the VA once this is complete.
2. Final Certification: After the add/drop period, we'll certify you again to confirm your registered hours and enter tuition and fees (for Chapter 31 and 33 students).

All stipends and MHA payments are sent directly to the bank account on file with the VA. Make sure your classes contribute to your academic degree, as the VA will only cover these.

Helpful Hint: For full MHA, Chapter 33 students must be enrolled in at least one on-campus or hybrid course. Online-only enrollment may result in a reduced MHA. Chapter 31 students should check with their VRE counselor about how online courses will impact their monthly stipend.

How do I drop a class or withdraw from the university?

First, officially drop the class through BisonWeb or your advisor. Then, notify us immediately using the Certification Updates form (located in the "Request to Use Your VA Education Benefits or Scholarship at HU" section).

Dropping below full-time status will change your benefits, and you will likely have to repay the VA for the period you were not enrolled full-time.

For additional information on dropping classes and mitigating circumstances, click here.

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Financial Aid & Payments

Can I use FAFSA with my VA benefits?

Yes! We strongly recommend you complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This helps Howard University award you grants and scholarships that can help cover costs not paid for by the VA, as the VA's tuition cap is less than the full cost of tuition at Howard.

Can I use scholarships with my VA education benefits?

Yes! Use our new Updates Form to report any scholarships you receive. Note that some scholarships specifically for tuition and fees may be deducted from Chapter 31 and 33 payments.

How much is my MHA or stipend each month?

You can use the VA's online comparison tool to see your estimated MHA or stipend. The government periodically updates these amounts for the cost of living, and you can check current rates here.

When will I get my monthly payments?

Monthly payments begin the month after school starts, as long as you submit your Certification Request in a timely manner. The VA prorates your MHA for the days you are enrolled in school each month.

For any questions about MHA or stipends, use the Ask VA tool online or call the VA Educational Benefits helpline at (888) 442-4551.

When will my tuition and fees be paid?

For Chapter 31 and 33 students, tuition and fees are billed to the VA after the final add/drop date each semester. There is a VA tuition cap for private schools, so not all costs may be covered. You are responsible for any fees the VA doesn't cover.

What fees are not covered by the VA?

The VA does not cover late registration, late payment, housing, or meal plan fees. Chapter 33 may cover student health insurance if you don't have other health insurance. Chapter 31 may cover parking if approved by your VRE counselor on the Purchase Order (PO).

What is the Yellow Ribbon program?

The Yellow Ribbon program helps cover tuition and fees that VA benefits don't. While Chapter 33 covers all tuition and fees at public schools, there's a cap for private schools. Howard University participates in this program and offers up to $4,000 per academic year for eligible students, which the VA matches. We will automatically enroll eligible students. You can learn more about eligibility here.

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Admissions & Enrollment

Do I need to submit transcripts?

Yes. The VA requires all schools to review prior credit and grant credit to students as appropriate. This is mandated by federal regulations 21.4253(d)(3) and 21.4254(C)(4).

Submit your official transcripts to the Office of Admissions in one of these ways:

• e-transcript system (preferred): Use a service like Parchment or the National Student Clearinghouse. If asked for an email, use transfer@howard.edu.
• Mail (not preferred): Send sealed, unopened transcripts to: Howard University, Attn: Transfer Services, 2400 6th Street NW, Suite 105, Washington DC, 20059.

How do I request enrollment verification?

You must have a schedule for the term you need verified.

• Campus verifications: Available through BisonWeb.
• VA forms: The student must email veterans@howard.edu to request specific forms like the VBA-21-674b-ARE (School Attendance Report) or the CHAMPVA School Enrollment Certification Letter.

What if I need to defer admission or attendance?

If you need to defer due to military service, complete all required forms and email us your full name, Howard ID, and program/major so we can support your request.

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Additional Questions

How do I contact the right office?

• For Howard questions: Email veterans@howard.edu or call (202) 238-2422. Email is encouraged for the fastest response.
• For VA questions: Use the Ask VA tool or call the VA Educational Benefits helpline at (888) 442-4551.

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GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

What is VA Work Study?

The VA Work Study program is a tax-free education benefit for students using specific VA education benefits (Chapters 30, 31, 32, 33, 35, or 1606). At Howard University, students who qualify can work in an office and receive pay at the Washington, D.C. minimum wage.

To apply, review the job description, complete the **VA Work Study application**, and submit it via the **Summer 2023 Certification Updates form**.

Qualifications for the Summer Program

You may complete a summer VA Work Study application if you meet these qualifications:

• You are enrolled for summer courses at **any** school approved for VA education benefits.
• You are enrolled at least **¾ (75%) time**.
  • For **undergraduate students**, this means being enrolled in at least 4.5 units/credits for the summer.
  • For **graduate/professional students**, your program administrator must provide OMVS with your full-time summer enrollment number in writing.
• You must be using one of the following VA education benefits: **Chapters 30, 31, 32, 33, 35, or 1606**.
  • **Note for Chapter 33 students:** Summer tuition is often not covered due to the VA tuition cap, especially if your program costs are the same or more than an undergraduate degree at HU. However, you will still receive the monthly stipend and will use up months of eligibility. If your first term of the year is spring or summer, a portion of your summer tuition may be covered.

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Application Periods & Process

Application Timeline

• Upper-Classmen: The application period begins 60 days before the start of the semester, with a general start date one week before classes begin. Links will be posted on the OMVS website, social media, and in student newsletters.
• Freshmen: The application period begins 15 days before the semester starts and is evaluated through the second week of classes. The general start date is on or around September 1st.

Selection Process

Work Study positions are offered in academic-year cohorts, meaning selection in the fall is continuous through the spring semester.

The application process uses a point-based grading system. It evaluates:

• Cumulative GPA (for upper-classmen only)
• Timeliness, accuracy, and proper formatting of the application
• An essay response (for upper-classmen) or an interview (for freshmen)

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Scholarship Opportunities for Military-Connected Students

This section is a resource for various scholarships that may be useful to all military-connected students. If you know of an opportunity that can be added to this list, please email us!

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General Scholarships for All Military-Connected Students

• HOWARD UNIVERSITY FRESHMAN SCHOLARSHIPS (HUFS): Available to all freshmen and transfer students. (More info here)
• Military Order of the Purple Heart: Offers scholarships for Purple Heart recipients and their families. (More info here)
• Pat Tillman Education Scholarship: For active duty service members, veterans, and their spouses. (More info here)
• Paralyzed Veterans of America: Scholarship program for PVA members, spouses, and children. (More info here)
• Student Veterans of America: Offers a range of scholarships and resources for student veterans. (More info here)

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Scholarships/Grants for Service Members and Veterans

• AAPA Veterans Caucus Scholarships: (More info here)
• AMVETS National Scholarship for Veterans: (More info here)
• Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship: (More info here)
• Chapter Scholarships - AFCEA: (More info here)
• DAV Auxiliary National Education Scholarship: (More info here)
• Dolphin Scholarship Foundation: (More info here)
• FRA Education Foundation Scholarship: For those affiliated with the Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard. (More info here)
• Heroes Tribute Scholarship Program: (More info here)
• Imagine America Military Award Program: (More info here)
• Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant: (More info here)
• Leave No Veteran Behind: (More info here)
• MCA Chaplain Candidate Scholarship: (More info here)
• Military Commanders Scholarship Fund: (More info here)
• National Board Certified Counselors Foundation Scholarships: (More info here)
• Navy SEAL Foundation: For NSW personnel. (More info here)
• Purple Heart Foundation: (More info here)
• ROTC Scholarship – AFCEA: (More info here)
• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award: (More info here)
• Sons and Daughters Pearl Harbor Survivor Scholarship: (More info here)
• Student Financial Aid Guide for Veterans: (More info here)
• Troops to Teachers Program: (More info here)
• VFW Help A Hero Scholarship: (More info here)
• War Veterans Scholarship - AFCEA: (More info here)

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Scholarships for Dependents (Spouses and Children)

• American Legion Legacy Scholarship: (More info here)
• AMVETS National Scholarship: (More info here)
• Children’s Scholarship Fund: For elementary school students. (More info here)
• Daughters of the Cincinnati Scholarship: (More info here)
• Defense Commissary Agency: Scholarships for Military Children. (More info here)
• FINRA Foundation Military Spouse Fellowship Program: For financial counseling. (More info here)
• Folds of Honor Scholarship: For spouses and dependents of service members who have fallen or have a combined service-connected disability rating. (More info here)
• Fort Meade Enlisted Spouses’ Club Scholarships: For dependent children. (More info here)
• Fort Meade Officers Spouses’ Club Scholarships: For members and dependents in the National Capital Region. (More info here)
• Gilman-McCain Scholarship: For child and spousal dependents of active or activated U.S. military personnel for study abroad. (More info here)
• Hero’s Legacy Scholarship: (More info here)
• Hope for the Warriors Spouse/Caregiver: (More info here)
• Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation: For Marines and Navy Corpsmen who served with Marine units. (More info here)
• Military Officers Association of America (MOAA): (More info here)
• Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society: For Navy and Marine Corps families. (More info here)
• NMFA Spouse Scholarships: (More info here)
• Noncommissioned Officer Association Scholarship: (More info here)

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External Opportunities for Military-Connected Students

Howard University is committed to connecting military-connected students with valuable resources beyond campus. Here, you'll find information on various organizations that offer support, community, and opportunities.

National Veterans Leadership Foundation (NVLF) MCA Program

The National Veterans Leadership Foundation (NVLF) offers the **Military College Accelerator (MCA) program**. This program is designed to empower military students and veterans by providing mentorship, leadership development, and career readiness support to help them successfully transition from military service to higher education and meaningful careers.

Benefit to Students: Gain valuable mentorship, develop essential leadership skills, and receive career guidance tailored for veterans and military-connected individuals.

Learn More About the NVLF MCA Program

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Student Veterans of America (SVA)

Student Veterans of America (SVA) is a national organization that provides a network of support to student veterans. They advocate for veteran-friendly policies and programs, offering resources, community-building initiatives, and opportunities for leadership and academic success. Many universities have local SVA chapters.

Benefit to Students: Join a supportive community of fellow student veterans, access academic and career resources, and engage in advocacy efforts that benefit the military-connected student population.

Sign Up or Get More Info About SVA

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Dog Tag Bakery

Dog Tag Bakery runs a unique fellowship program that offers a transformative five-month program for veterans, military spouses, and caregivers with service-connected disabilities. Participants gain business and management skills through an education program and hands-on experience in the bakery, preparing them for future career paths in the business world.

Benefit to Students: Acquire valuable entrepreneurial and business skills, gain practical work experience, and build a strong network within a supportive environment, all while working towards a post-military career.

Learn More About the Dog Tag Bakery Program

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Legislative Policies for VA Education Benefits

Approved VA Benefits & University Policy

Howard University is approved by the VA to certify veterans' education benefits for approved undergraduate and graduate programs. Our office facilitates this certification process for students requesting VA benefits.

The following VA benefits are offered at Howard University:

• Chapter 30 - Montgomery GI Bill®
• Chapter 31 - Veteran Readiness & Employment
• Chapter 33 - Post-9/11 GI Bill®
• Chapter 35 - Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) Program
• Chapter 1606 - Montgomery GI Bill® - Selected Reserve
• Yellow Ribbon Program

To learn more about these benefits, visit the VA website.

Key University Regulations for VA Benefits:

• The VA will not pay for students to repeat a course they have already passed, with the exception of dissertation and limited research courses.
• Howard University must maintain a record of a student’s previous education and training, grant appropriate credit, and notify the student and the VA accordingly.

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Delayed Payment Compliance (Title 38 US Code 3679(e))

In compliance with federal law, Howard University will not penalize students who are unable to meet their financial obligations due to delayed VA funding for **Chapter 31** or **Chapter 33** benefits.

To Qualify for This Provision, Students Must:

• Provide their **VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE)**, a Statement of Benefits, or a VAF 28-1905 form.
• Notify the Office of Military & Veterans Services **each semester** that they are ready to be certified. Failure to do so may result in classes not being certified.
• Follow a Howard University degree plan. Students should meet with an academic counselor each semester to ensure their course selections align with this plan.

Howard University Will Not Impose Penalties Such As:

• Assessing late fees.
• Denying access to classes, libraries, or other university facilities.
• Requiring the student to secure additional or alternative funds.

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Enrollment Compliance (Public Law 116-315)

In accordance with Section 1018 of Public Law 116-315, Howard University ensures the following protections for military-connected students using their VA benefits:

• Students must approve their enrollment in a course by requesting certification every semester with the Office of Military and Veterans Services.
• Enrolled members of the Armed Forces (including reserve and National Guard) will be readmitted if they must suspend their enrollment for military service.
• Short absences for military service will be accommodated, provided the service member or reservist was making satisfactory academic progress prior to the absence.

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Tax Exemption for VA Education Benefits

If you are a military-connected student receiving VA education benefits, this income is not taxable. The IRS excludes these payments from taxation, as outlined in **Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education**.

Key Provisions:

• Payments you receive for education, training, or subsistence under any VA-administered law are **tax-free**. Do not include them as income on your federal tax return.
• You may have to reduce your qualifying education expenses for other tax benefits (like the American Opportunity Credit) by the amount of your VA payments that were specifically designated for education expenses. For example, a tuition payment made directly to the school would need to be subtracted, but a housing allowance paid to you would not.

For more detailed information, you can visit the VA website or the IRS’s Tax Information for Students page.

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GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.