Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I access my personalized data sheet?
  The Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020 requires educational institutions to make certain disclosures to students using federal military and/or VA educational benefits. You can access a personalized data sheet by visiting the SUNY Net Price Cost Calculator  and selecting Stony Brook University from the dropdown. Additional financial information can be found at the NCES College Navigator site. 
• How long does it take before I receive my first payment?
  For new applicants, it can take up to 12 weeks before the first payment is made.
• Where do I apply for benefits?

  You will need to apply for benefits with the VA at VA. Gov. They will provide you with a Certificate of Eligibility, a required document for our office to certify your enrollment at Stony Brook.

• I am receiving a Pell Grant or another non-tuition-specific scholarship. Will I be sent this amount?

  The Pell Grant and other non-tuition-specific awards will be sent to your student account. If you receive GI Bill benefits that are paid directly to the school, a negative balance will be posted once the VA pays the school, and that amount will be refunded to you.

• Do I need to verify my enrollment for the GI Bill?
  • Yes.
  •  Chapter 33 benefits recipients can verify their enrollment through an automated text message or by calling the GI Bill Hotline (1-888-GIBILL1).
  • Chapter 1606 can verify their enrollment through WAVE.
  • Chapter 31 can contact their VR&E Counselor
  • The VA will notify Chapter 35 whether they need to verify their enrollment.
• What are the current rates for educational benefits?

  The most up-to-date information can be found on the VA’s website, which is located here: https://www.va.gov/education/benefit-rates/.

• How long do my benefits last, and do they expire?

  Generally for the Post-9/11 GI Bill: If you were discharged before January 1, 2013, your benefits expire 15 years after your discharge date. If you were discharged on or after January 1, 2013, your benefits won't expire due to the Forever GI Bill. Contact (888) 442-4551 for more details.

• What documents will I need to use for my VA GI Bill benefits?

  Our office will need a DD-214 (Only for veteran students), Social Security Number (For dependents using benefits), Certificate of Eligibility from the VA for the students, Semester Schedule, and Semester Bill.

• When do I need to fill out the VA benefits enrollment form?

  Every semester you wish to use your GI Bill benefits.

• What do I do if I need to make an adjustment to my schedule?

  Contact our office, changing your schedule could directly affect your GI Bill eligibility and could result in a large debt. We will guide you through whether the changes you plan to make will affect your GI Bill.

• Who qualifies for VA Benefits under the Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter31)?

  You can visit the VA website here (https://www.va.gov/careers-employment/vocational-rehabilitation/eligibility/) to find the most up to date  information on Chapter 31 benefits.

• Can I use my GI Bill during the Winter/Summer Courses?

  Yes. You can use your GI Bill during these semesters, you can contact our office to find out more information regarding using your benefits.

• Can I use my GI Bill benefits to study abroad?

  Yes. Generally, tuition and any fees that do not pertain to studying abroad will be covered and the housing allowance would be different than that of Stony Brook’s housing allowance.

• How do online classes affect my BAH (Housing Allowance)?
  If you are only taking online courses, the monthly housing allowance (MHA) would be reduced to half the national average. To be qualified for in-person MHA, you must take at least one in-person credit course.
• Can I qualify for financial aid even if I am using GI Bill Benefits?
  Yes. You can apply for financial aid at FAFSA.gov. Depending on your financial situation, you may be eligible for grant or federal loan.
• Can I receive credit for my military training?
  Yes. You can send your official Joint Service Transcript (JST) through their website to Stony Brook. Stony Brook will evaluate your JST and transfer credits that apply to your account.