Chapter 35 DEA

• Dept. of Veteran Affairs education benefits for Survivors and Dependents

1. Initial Dept. of Veteran Affairs benefit application or update your school or bank account on file in the VA system
2. Provide to Laurel Ridge Veteran Services:
   • Certificate of Eligibility (proof of benefits)
   • Service Member’s social security number
   • Service Member’s first and last Name
   • Student social security number if not provided on college application
3. Submit Laurel Ridge VA certification request form
4. Send all official college transcripts
5. Make an appointment with
   • Military Benefits Official, Sharon Painter
   • Veteran Academic Advisor, Jeanmarie Corrado
6. Enroll in courses required for VA approved degree/certificate.
7. Pay tuition and fees
8. Attend and complete the course(s)
9. Students pursuing a certificate or career studies certificate must verify enrollment with Dept of Veteran Affairs each month to receive housing stipend.

• Students pursuing a certificate or career studies certificate must verify enrollment with Dept of Veteran Affairs each month to receive stipend.
• Benefit pays monthly stipend based on enrollment.

*Rate is effective October 1, 2024

** If enrolled less than 1/2 time or 1/4 time, stipend will be amount listed here but no more than total tuition and fees.  For more information,

• Visit GI Bill Comparison Tool
• DEA/Chapter 35 rates
• Call the VA education hotline, 1-888-442-4551

• Student is responsible for all tuition, fees, software and textbooks.
• Reductions in enrollment may cause a Dept. of Veteran Affairs debt to student
• Students using military education benefits can also use financial aid (FAFSA)
• Students pursuing a certificate or career studies certificate must verify enrollment with Dept of Veteran Affairs each month to receive housing stipend.

Please verify all benefit information:

• Dept. of Veteran Affairs education hotline 1-888-442-4551
• Dept. of Veterans Affairs “Ask VA”
• Dept. of Veteran Affairs education and training benefits