FAQ - Military Programs

The Veterans Resource Center (VRC) can provide individualized assistance and services to military personnel. Veterans, reservists, guard members, or those currently serving in any branch of the military. You can also can register with the VRC to receive important University news, updates, and programs.

Normally, you would want to use the Illinois Veterans Grant (IVG) first because IVG covers more educational expenses (tuition and all mandatory fees), whereas, the ING program covers tuition and one fee (activity). However, if you plan to attend an Illinois public university for graduate school and will not be in the National Guard at that time, you may want to save IVG for later use since the grant is limited to 4-years of full-time attendance.

The Post 9/11 GI Bill® is an education program for individuals who served on active duty on or after September 11, 2001.
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 VA government website.

The Post 9/11 GI Bill® program begins for any period of education starting on or after August 1, 2009.

You may be eligible for the Post 9/11 GI Bill® if you served at least 90 days on active duty after September 10, 2001 and were honorably discharged.

Qualified applicants of the Post 9/11 GI Bill® may receive up to 36 months of education benefits. Actual benefits are figured on a percentage from 90 days of qualified active duty service up to full benefits for 36 months of active duty service.

The Illinois Veterans Grant (IVG) is a state program. while the GI Bill® Benefits are a federal aid program. The application for the IVG is submitted to the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC). Once approved, the credit will be applied to your University account for tuition and mandatory fees. The application for the GI Bill® Benefits is submitted to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Once approved, you will self-certify on STARS each semester after which you will receive a monthly check directly.

It is possible to have an Illinois Veterans Grant (IVG) and the G.I. Bill® Benefits. However, all are separate programs and each program requires a separate application.

The Illinois National Guard (ING) grant requires an annual application. If you have already applied, have received confirmation of eligibility from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, and are a registered student, please contact us.

Western Illinois University