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@bloomu.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
