If the VA Has Not Paid My Post 9/11 GI Bill Tuition, Can I Still Attend?
Q: I was wondering about the VA essentially submitting payments to schools late. If I was to enroll, and by the first day of school the VA has not paid the school, will I still be able to attend? Essentially what would happen and would I be held responsible for anything? Thanks.
A: Ultimately, you are responsible for what the VA does not pay. As far as what would happen, well that varies from school to school.
Most schools would let you attend, if they know you are using the Post 9/11 GI Bill. If they have experience with the VA, they know about when to expect their money and how to communicate with the VA if it is late. However, you may run into a few schools where they will make you pay your tuition and fees up-front and then they will re-imburse you back once they receive their payment from the VA.
It really depends on how military-friendly your school is and how much experience they have had with the VA (and if that experience was good or bad). But in the end, it is your responsibility.
As part of your Post 9/11 GI Bill education benefits, you will get paid a monthly housing allowance and up to $1,000 per year book stipend.