Learning Matters

The Post-9/11 GI Bill went into effect today and offers veterans a broader range of economic and education-related support. The bill will disburse $78 billion over the next decade and, according to the U.S. Veterans Affairs office, “will provide veterans with upfront tuition payments directly to the school, a monthly living allowance and a book stipend of $1,000 per year.”

In a change from the previous version of the bill, the Post 9/11 GI Bill allows vets to use tuition and fees for private colleges of their choice, not just public.

Last year, we covered the efforts of veterans and lawmakers trying to pass the new version of the bill. We talked with Iraq war vets currently in college but facing frightening debt, and Virginia Senator Jim Webb, a former marine and Vietnam vet, who shared his thoughts and frustrations with the then-current benefits system.

Watch “Shortchanging Our Veterans“:

Shortchanging Our Veterans: The Program [Video]

The New GI Bill [Website and resources]