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Independent study and online learning

Find out how your VA education benefits may help pay for independent study and online-only courses.

Can I use my VA education benefits for independent study and online learning? 

Yes. If you’re completing independent study or online learning courses through an institution of higher learning in the U.S. (like a college or university), your VA education benefits may cover the costs.

Note: If you’re attending a non-college degree school, in most cases your VA education benefits won’t cover independent study and online training.

Who’s covered?

  • Veterans 
  • Service members 
  • Members of the National Guard
  • Members of the Reserves
  • Qualified dependents

What benefits can I get?

If you’re using Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, we’ll pay for tuition and fees at the same rate as regular courses at an institution of higher learning in the U.S. We may also pay you a stipend for books and supplies.

Check the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) rates for tuition and fees

If you’re taking all online courses (no in-person courses), we’ll pay a monthly housing allowance (MHA) based on 50% of the national average. If you take at least 1 in-person course, we’ll pay the standard housing allowance under Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.

Check the Post-9/11 GI Bill MHA for online learning

If you’re using any other VA education benefit, we’ll pay you a monthly rate based on your training time, which VA education benefit you’re using, and certain other factors.

Check the current payment rates

How do I get these benefits?

You’ll need to apply for benefits.

Apply for education benefits