Throughout the country, more than 1,100 colleges and universities have made the agreement to join forces with the Department of Veteran Affairs by taking part in the “Yellow Ribbon” program and UT is one of them.
The Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program is an addition the new Post-9/11 GI Bill which will pay for tuition costs surpassing the highest in-state tuition. Universities and colleges can provide for 50 percent of the expenses and the VA will give the same amount for eligible students.
UT will pay for all tuition charges for all students who qualify. This includes undergraduate, graduate, part-time and full-time students. According to the VA website listing all participating schools in the country, UT will provide $3,000 per student per year and there are an unlimited number of students who can qualify in all areas of study.
In addition, UT will waive charges not covered by VA benefits or other financial aid programs to those who are eligible.
According to a VA press release, the program is only for Veterans eligible for the Post-9/11 GI bill at the 100 percent benefit level. Including those who were active duty for a minimum of 36 months or those discharged after 30 days due to a service-related injury.
The University of South Florida, Lynn University, Rollins College and Eckerd College are also participating in the program.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill is the largest educational assistance program implemented since GI Bill of 1944.
The program begins on Aug. 1 for the 2009-2010 academic year.