4 Need-to-Know Things about the Yellow Ribbon Program
4 Need-to-Know Things about the Yellow Ribbon Program
The Yellow Ribbon Program operates hand in hand with the Post-9/11 GI Bill®️. Together they strive to reduce the out-of-pocket expenses for higher education. Here's what you need to know about the program and how to utilize it.
Can dependents use the Yellow Ribbon Program, too?
Yellow Ribbon eligibility extends to those who qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill®️ at the 100% benefit level, and one of the following applies to you:
You served at least 36 months on active duty (either all at once or with breaks in service) and were honorably discharged, or
You received a Purple Heart on or after September 11, 2001, and were honorably discharged after any amount of service, or
You served at least 30 continuous days (all at once, without a break) on or after September 11, 2001, and were discharged or released from active duty for a service-connected disability, or
You're an active-duty service member who has served at least 36 months on active duty (either all at once or with breaks in service), or
You're a spouse using the transferred benefits of an active-duty service member who has served at least 36 months on active duty, or
You're a dependent child using benefits transferred by a Veteran, or
You're a Fry Scholar
Do all schools participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program?
Not all colleges and universities participate in the Yellow Ribbon program. You can see a list of those participating on the GI Bill®️ website. Participating schools have an agreement with the VA that may cause them to limit the number of Yellow Ribbon participants in their programs. After applying, the school will notify you of your acceptance.
Additionally, the funds may not be distributed equally. Schools can designate the number of students and contributions based on their status. For example, they may give more money to those pursuing a graduate degree or a student in a nursing program.
While a recipient of these funds, you are not guaranteed to receive funds for the following year. If your school continues its agreement with the VA, you must continue towards completion of your program, remain continuously enrolled and have remaining GI Bill®️ entitlements. If the school discontinues its participation in the program, it will inform you directly.
What's covered, and is there a limit?
Once again, the agreement the school has with the VA will determine how much the school contributes to making up the difference from the GI Bill®️. The VA will match that, and combining these three sources may not be enough to pay for the entire tuition. Regarding fees, the Yellow Ribbon Program may cover the mandatory ones. Penalty fees, optional study abroad program fees and room and board, are not payable under the GI Bill®️ or the Yellow Ribbon program.
Students using this program don't have to attend full-time, and if they reduce their course load mid-semester, they may be liable to the VA for any overpayments. Regarding taking some time off, the school must continue to offer the program if you remain continuously enrolled. You'll have to check with the school for their specific definition.
How do I apply for this program?
The application is easy! If you submit for the Post-9/11 GI Bill®️ through the VA and are eligible at the 100% benefit level, you'll get a Certificate of Eligibility that states you are potentially eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program. That goes to the school, which will determine if they have spots left in their program. The school notifies you if you are eligible.
Ready to learn more about navigating the higher education system as a veteran? Start here.