How to use DEA Chapter 35

Click on the menus below for more benefit information.

Initial Dept. of Veterans Affairs benefit application or update your school or bank account on file in the VA system
Provide to Laurel Ridge Office of Military and Veteran Services:
- Certificate of Eligibility (proof of benefits). Document is mailed to student or can be requested via ASK VA portal
- Service Member’s social security number
- Service Member’s first and last Name
- Student social security number if not provided on college application
Submit Laurel Ridge VA certification request form
Send all official college transcripts
Make an appointment with
- Military Benefits Official, Sharon Painter
- Veteran Academic Advisor, Jeanmarie Corrado
Enroll in courses required for VA approved degree/certificate.
Pay tuition and fees. Effective Fall 2025, students are required to pay in full or have a payment plan in place by the standard posted payment deadlines.
Attend and complete the course(s)
Students must verify enrollment for DEA benefits each month to receive housing stipend.

Benefit pays monthly stipend based on days of enrollment.
Enrollment status below is based on 14 week session. Student can receive full time stipend if taking fewer credits within shorter sessions, such as 12 week or 7 week session.

*Rate is effective October 1, 2025

** If enrolled less than 1/2 time, stipend will be amount listed here but no more than total tuition and fees. For more information,

Student is responsible for all tuition, fees, software and textbooks
Effective Fall 2025, students are required to pay in full or have a payment plan in place by the standard posted payment deadlines. Students using military education benefits can also use financial aid (FAFSA)
Reductions in enrollment may cause a Dept. of Veteran Affairs debt to student

Please verify all benefit information:

Laurel Ridge Military and Veterans Services