Chapter 1606: Reserve Montgomery Bill

You may qualify for these benefits if you:

  • Are a Reservist or National Guard member who signed a six-year obligation on or after July 1, 1985.
  • Completed initial active duty training.
  • Are in good standing with your drilling Selected Reserve unit.

Benefit Guidelines

You will receive a monthly stipend for personal use. You will receive a full benefit for full-time enrollment; the benefit will be reduced proportionately for part-time enrollment. Visit http://www.gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/rates.htm for complete information on current rates.

The Department of Defense may make additional contributions, or kickers, on your behalf if you are an individual who served in a critical military field. Contact your unit to find out if you qualify for the kicker.

Your benefit affects financial aid in the same way as scholarships or other need-based education resources. Chapter 1606 benefits do not affect your eligibility for a Federal Pell.

Your benefits must be used while actively drilling with a National Guard/Reserve unit. Once you leave the National Guard/Reserves, your education benefit ends.

Documentation Required for Chapter 1606

To receive education benefits, you must have a Certificate of Eligibilty (COE). A COE can be obtained by going to the Department of Veteran Affairs website and applying for your federal GI Bill education benefits utilizing their Veteran On-line Application (VONAPP).

Please submit completed forms or document copies to either the Department of Veteran Affairs or the Registrars Office, according to your circumstances.

If you have never applied for benefits, submit

  1. An Application for VA Benefits (22-1990) through VONAPP and include your Notice of Basic Eligibility (NOBE) and any Kicker Agreement, if applicable
  2. A Certificate of Eligibility to the Registrars Office
  3. A Veterans Registration Reporting Form to the Registrars Office

If you have had a one-year break in attendance at the University, or if you used your benefit at another institution, submit:

  1. A Change of Program or Place of Training (22-1995) through VONAPP
  2. A Certificate of Eligibility to the Registrars Office
  3. A Veterans Registration Reporting Form to the Registrars Office

If you received your benefit at George Mason University within the last year, submit:

  1. A Veterans Registration Reporting Form to the Registrars Office