Individuals who have served in the military on active duty after September 10, 2001, are eligible for educational benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. However, for veterans who served before this date, they are not excluded from receiving benefits; they can still access support through the MGIB program. In the following sections, we will explore the key distinctions between these two educational assistance programs.
What is the Montgomery GI Bill
The Montgomery GI Bill, often abbreviated as MGIB, is a U.S. government program that provides educational benefits to eligible military service members and veterans. It has two primary versions:
- MGIB-Active Duty (Chapter 30): This program is available to active-duty service members who have enrolled and contributed a portion of their military pay towards the program. In return, they receive financial assistance for education and training after completing a minimum service obligation.
- MGIB-Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606): Reserved for members of the Selected Reserve, such as the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve, and National Guard. Eligible individuals receive educational benefits to support their training and education efforts.
What is Post-9/11 GI Bill?
The Post-9/11 GI Bill, officially known as the “Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008” or simply the Post-9/11 GI Bill, is another education benefits program provided by the U.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This program offers educational assistance to eligible veterans and service members who have served on active duty after September 10, 2001. It includes several benefits, such as tuition and fee coverage, housing allowances, and a stipend for books and supplies.
Related: Difference Between TDIU and Permanent and Total Disability
Difference between MGIB and Post-9/11:
- Eligibility Criteria:
- MGIB: Eligibility for MGIB-Active Duty typically requires active-duty service and enrollment during military service. MGIB-Selected Reserve is for members of the Selected Reserve.
- Post-9/11: Eligibility is based on service after September 10, 2001, with varying levels of benefits based on the length of service.
- Benefit Coverage:
- MGIB: Provides a monthly education benefit directly to the student, with the amount depending on the length of service and the program’s type and location.
- Post-9/11: Covers tuition and fees up to the in-state public school rate, provides a monthly housing allowance, and offers a yearly stipend for books and supplies.
- Transferability:
- MGIB: Generally, benefits cannot be transferred to family members.
- Post-9/11: Allows eligible service members to transfer their unused benefits to their spouse or dependent children.
- Expiration of Benefits:
- MGIB: Benefits typically expire 10 years from the date of separation from active duty.
- Post-9/11: Benefits are available for 15 years after the service member’s last period of active duty of at least 90 days.
MGIB (Montgomery GI Bill) vs Post-9/11 GI Bill
here’s a comparison of the MGIB (Montgomery GI Bill) and the Post-9/11 GI Bill in a table format:
| Aspect | MGIB (Montgomery GI Bill) | Post-9/11 GI Bill |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility Criteria | Based on active-duty service and contribution during service. | Based on service after September 10, 2001. |
| Types | – MGIB-Active Duty (Chapter 30): Active-duty service members. – MGIB-Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606): Selected Reserve and National Guard members. | All veterans and service members who served after September 10, 2001. |
| Benefit Coverage | Monthly education benefit based on length of service and program location. | – Tuition and fees coverage up to the in-state public school rate. – Monthly housing allowance. – Yearly stipend for books and supplies. |
| Transferability | Benefits generally cannot be transferred to family members. | Allows eligible service members to transfer unused benefits to spouse or dependent children. |
| Duration of Benefits | Typically expires 10 years from the date of separation from active duty. | Benefits available for 15 years after the service member’s last period of active duty of at least 90 days. |
| Yellow Ribbon Program | MGIB does not include the Yellow Ribbon Program. | Post-9/11 GI Bill includes the Yellow Ribbon Program to cover additional tuition and fees for private or out-of-state schools. |
| Application Process | Apply through the VA. | Apply through the VA. |
Conclusion:
In summary, the MGIB and Post-9/11 GI Bill are both valuable educational assistance programs for military service members and veterans. The key differences lie in eligibility criteria, benefit coverage, transferability options, and the duration of benefits. Choosing between the two depends on individual circumstances, including when a service member served and their educational goals. Both programs aim to support veterans in pursuing higher education and transitioning to civilian life successfully.