Military Student Education Benefits Checklist
Preparing for College - Recommended Steps from a Fellow Student Veteran
What do you want to study?
- Contact the VA Certifying Official at each school to make sure they are approved by the VA.
- Find Approved VA: Education Programs - 1-888-442-4551
Apply for Admission
Applying to BU is a several step process. To simplify it and get individualized guidance, contact Bob Heckrote, admissions, at rheckrote@commonwealthu.edu or 570-389-5116. When contacting Bob, be sure to include if you're current or former military and/or spouse or dependent.
- Check with each college you apply for specific requirements
- Complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) and watch for deadlines!
- Your FAFSA application determines your eligibility for low or no interest student loans as well as state and other federal grants.
- Compile all transcripts from previous colleges and any military training that can be evaluated for transfer credit.
- Inquire about any required testing for placement, for example, math and foreign language programs
- Attend the school’s orientation process and learn about the following
- Rules, Regulations, and Policies
- Tutoring Sessions, Team Athletics, and Extracurricular Activities
- Financial Aid
- Housing Availability
Consult an academic advisor — Bob Heckrote
- Register for classes
Apply for GI Bill® Benefits
- Contact OEF/OIF program manager at your local VA hospital for access to VA health care services and information on service-connected disabilities.OEF/OIF Program Managers
- Contact University Disability Services, if any services are needed
- If there is a military student club organized at your college or university? If so, they can assist you in this process.
- Apply for Scholarships and grants
Contact a local Veterans Service Officer if you need help filling out VA Forms
Checklist courtesy of mymilitaryeducation.org and Military to College Guide
