Use your GI Bill® Benefits

How to apply and use VA Educational Benefits at Boise State

Your Checklist

*Complete items with an asterisk EVERY semester

• Create a VA.gov Account
• Verify GI Bill ® Eligibility (you may qualify for more than one benefit)
• Use GI Bill ® Comparison Tool (better understand your benefits)
• Apply to Boise State (find out if you qualify for an Application Fee Waiver here)
• (if desired) Transfer Previous Credits to Boise State. Transferred credits may affect your SAP (Satisfactory Academic Progress) status, which can impact your eligibility for federal financial aid.
• Apply for GI Bill ® Benefits  – Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This can take several weeks so plan accordingly. If transferring to Boise State change/update your COE.
• Apply for Financial Aid (FAFSA) (*Every Year)
• Consider Applying for Federal Work Study
• Consider Applying for VA Work Study
• Update FERPA Restrictions (specify who has access to your information)
• Apply for Boise State and State of Idaho Scholarships. Search for other veteran related scholarships at CollegeRecon or College Scholarship.
• Enroll In Classes at Boise State*
• Submit your Declaration to the VSC (w/ your COE)*
• Verify your enrollment to the VA: if you’re using Chapter 30, 33, or 1606 benefits you need to verify your enrollment each month – learn how here.*
• Submit a Financial Aid Release Form*
• (if desired) Opt-out of the Inclusive Access (IA) Program (e-textbook)*
• Verify a Hold (“Veteran Hold”) has been placed on your account*
• Submit a Hold Lift Request if you need to change classes*
• Re-submit a Declaration to the VSC if your enrollment changes*
• Pay Your Bills (at the right time – not sure when that is, ask the VSC)*
  • Housing & Books are always your responsibility*
  • Tuition & Fees depend on your benefit chapter*
• Ask for Help – Contact the VSC Anytime (EARLY & OFTEN)* 
  • Email  |   208-426-3744

The advice and information provided by the Veteran Services Center (VSC) are intended to assist and guide veterans, service members, and their families in navigating available resources and educational benefit options. Please note that this information is for advisory purposes only and does not constitute a final determination of eligibility or approval of benefits. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the sole authority for decision-making and approval of all educational benefits.