Federal Tuition Assistance vs Post-9/11 GI Bill: Understanding Education Benefits for Military Families
Federal Tuition Assistance (TA) and the Post-9/11 GI Bill are two essential educational benefits for service members and their family members who may be looking to further their education. Despite their similarities, these bills serve different purposes and feature distinct eligibility requirements. Understanding these differences can help your service member maximize the military’s educational benefits. In this article, we will help you understand these educational benefits and how they can be used to support your service member’s educational goals.
What is Federal Tuition Assistance?
Federal Tuition Assistance (TA), is a financial aid program managed by the Department of Defense (DoD) that provides financial aid to active-duty service members. Some Reservists and National Guard members may also qualify, though this would depend on their branch and duty status. It covers up to 100% of tuition costs, with a cap of $250 per credit hour and an annual limit of $4,500.
What is the Post-9/11 GI Bill?
The Post-9/11 GI Bill is a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) program that provides education benefits to eligible veterans, service members, and, in some cases, their dependents. The Post-9/11 GI Bill can cover up to 100% of tuition and fees. It is primarily designed for veterans, though active-duty personnel may also be eligible.
Key Difference Between Federal Tuition Assistance and the Post 9/11-GI Bill
While both Federal Tuition Assistance and the Post-9/11 GI Bill offer tuition coverage to service members looking to further their education, there are a few notable differences between both programs:
Eligibility
Federal Tuition Assistance is typically available to active service members, though some Reservists and National Guard members may also be eligible, depending on their branch policy. The Post-9/11 GI Bill, on the other hand, is typically available to veterans, though in some cases, active duty members may also be eligible.
Coverage
While both programs can cover up to 100% of tuition, Federal Tuition Assistance has a cap of $250 per credit hour and an annual limit of $4,500, covering only tuition. The GI Bill, however, offers significantly higher coverage along with a Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA). The 2024-2025 state cap at public institutions is $28,937.09. The Yellow Ribbon Program can help the student veteran pay for a higher out-of-state school, private school, or graduate school tuition and fees that the Post-9/11 GI Bill doesn’t cover. The veteran has to have the Post-9/11 GI Bill at 100% to be eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program.
When They Can Be Used
Federal Tuition Assistance is typically used while on active duty while the GI Bill is typically for use after leaving the military. Service members on active duty can also use the GI Bill on special occasions, although they will not be eligible to receive their Monthly Housing Allowance through the GI Bill.
Transferability
Federal Tuition Assistance cannot be transferred to your spouse or children, but the GI Bill can be transferred to your spouse or children.
What’s the Best Choice for Your Service Member
While your service member may qualify for Federal Tuition Assistance and the Post-9/11 GI Bill, using TA is the best choice for active service members and reservists. This is because TA allows service members to pursue education while still serving without depleting their GI Bill benefits. Since TA covers tuition costs up to a set limit, service members can take courses during their military career and save their GI Bill benefits for post-service education or transfer them to eligible dependents. If your service member is looking to transition to civilian life the GI Bill is a better choice. The GI Bill offers broader financial support, including a monthly housing allowance, funds for books and supplies, and higher tuition coverage—especially for private or out-of-state institutions.
Useful Resources
TA Bill Information (DoD) – For details on eligibility, application process, and covered programs for the TA Bill.
GI Bill Benefits (VA) – For details on eligibility, application process, and covered programs for the GI Bill.
TA-Eligible Institutions – A tool to compare schools that participate in the Tuition Assistance program.
GI Bill-Approved Schools – A tool for finding VA-approved schools and training programs, including international institutions.
Yellow Ribbon Program - The Yellow Ribbon Program is designed to help students supplement their Post-9/11 GI Bill tuition benefits.
