How does the GI Bill work for Navy sailors?
TL;DR — Quick Answer
The Post-9/11 GI Bill covers up to 36 months of college tuition, a monthly housing allowance, and a book stipend for veterans who served at least 90 days of active duty after 9/11. It's one of the most valuable benefits of military service, worth $100,000+ at many schools.
Post-9/11 GI Bill basics
After 36 months of active duty service (or 30 continuous days with a service-connected disability discharge), you qualify for 100% of the Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. This includes: full tuition and fees paid directly to your school (up to the in-state maximum for public schools), a monthly housing allowance based on the ZIP code of your school, and an annual book stipend of $1,000. The benefit is good for 15 years after your last period of active duty.
Tuition Assistance while serving
Active duty sailors can use Tuition Assistance (TA) to take college courses while still serving — up to $250 per credit hour, capped at $4,500 per year. This is separate from your GI Bill, so you can use TA during service and save your GI Bill for after. Many sailors earn their associate's or bachelor's degree while on active duty using TA and CLEP exams.
Transfer to dependents
Active duty service members with at least 6 years of service can transfer their GI Bill benefits to a spouse or children, provided they commit to an additional 4 years of service. This is a powerful benefit — you can essentially pay for your child's college education through your military service. The transfer must be initiated while you're still on active duty.
Get your degree while serving — for free
Step-by-step guide to earning an associate's degree using TA, CLEP exams, and military credits at $0 out-of-pocket cost.
Useful Tools & Pages
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