For many service members and veterans, earning a college degree is a chance to build on the skills they developed in the military, prepare for a new career, or advance in their current field. Knowing how to pay for college is important for planning that next step. At South University, we provide personalized guidance to help military members, veterans, and their families explore the military education benefits and other resources that may make earning a degree more affordable and accessible.
As we recognize Veterans Day, here's a closer look at the military education benefits available at South University, how to apply, and the other ways we support those who have served.
What Military Education Benefits Are Available at South University?
South University Military Tuition Grant
Our Military Tuition Grant helps eligible service members, veterans, spouses, and dependents reduce their tuition. Grant amounts and eligibility vary depending on your military affiliation and program of study. See the benefit breakdown on our Military Benefits page for details, including what you’ll need to show to see if you are eligible. Our military admissions team will also make sure you understand the requirements and deadlines.
Tuition Assistance
Active-duty service members, National Guard members, and Reservists may qualify for Military Tuition Assistance through their branch of service. This benefit may help cover tuition. Each military branch has its own requirements and approval process. For approval, you'll need to work with your education office before beginning your courses. You may also be able to combine Tuition Assistance with certain GI Bill®* benefits through the Tuition Assistance Top-Up program. Our team can help you review your options.
*GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about VA education benefits is available at VA.gov.
The GI Bill®
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers education benefits that can help eligible service members, veterans, and their families pay for college. Examples include:
- Post-9/11 GI Bill® (Chapter 33)
- Montgomery GI Bill® Active Duty (Chapter 30)
- Montgomery GI Bill® Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)
- Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (Chapter 35)
Eligibility, payment amounts, and covered expenses differ by program. Find details about each on the VA site.
The Yellow Ribbon Program
The Yellow Ribbon Program may help with qualifying tuition and fees if the Post-9/11 GI Bill® annual tuition cap is reached. If you're considering using Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits at the 100% level, ask our military team how the Yellow Ribbon Program may fit into your financial aid plan.
How to Apply for Military Education Benefits
Applying for military education benefits can feel complicated, especially if you're balancing starting school with work, family responsibilities, or continued military service. Get started by breaking the process into a few manageable steps.
1. Explore Your Eligibility
The VA website can help you find out which education benefits you qualify for. If you're currently serving, contact your branch's education office about Tuition Assistance (TA) and any service-specific requirements. Our military admissions team can also help you understand our tuition grant and the documentation you'll need.
2. Talk With Our Admissions Team
Contact South University to talk about your goals, program options, admissions requirements, and potential funding sources. Our team can help you understand how military benefits may apply to your situation and explain the next steps for enrollment. This is also a good time to ask about the Military Tuition Grant.
3. Start Your Application
If you plan to use GI Bill benefits, you’ll apply at VA.gov. You may need information about your military service, your contact details, and your bank account for direct deposit. After the VA reviews your application, you may receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) for the approved education benefit. Save this document and be prepared to share it with your South University team. If you've used VA education benefits before, you may need to check your remaining eligibility or get updated documents.
4. Submit Your Documentation to South University
Gather the documents required for the benefits and grants you're pursuing. These may include:
- A Certificate of Eligibility from the VA
- A DD-214 or other applicable military discharge documentation
- A current Leave and Earnings Statement for eligible active-duty, Reserve, or National Guard students
- Documents establishing eligibility as a spouse or dependent
- Military education transcripts, such as a Joint Services Transcript (JST) or Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) transcript
South University can help guide you on what documents you need and when to submit them.