Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits

Transcription

1 Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits Veterans Education Benefits Offices Howard College Big Spring Howard College San Angelo Student Success Center Buzz Refugio, Dean of Student Services 1001 Birdwell Lane 3501 North US Highway 67 Big Spring, TX San Angelo, TX Phone: Phone: x 3326 Fax: Fax: [email protected] Available by appointment only

2 The Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits is designed to assist those students utilizing some type of veterans education benefit. The information contained in this handbook is not an exhaustive collection of all information related to veterans education benefits programs. Please contact the appropriate party for more information as needed. In addition to this handbook, students are strongly encouraged to contact the Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator for their campus as well as refer to sites such as the GI Bill Benefits web site ( and the Texas Veterans Commission web site ( Act.aspx). All information regarding VA education benefits presented in this handbook was taken directly from and is presented for information purposes only. All individuals applying for VA education benefits are strongly encouraged to visit to review all benefit programs available. Benefits can also be compared by visiting Administrators, faculty, and staff of Howard College are prohibited from directing an individual as to the benefit to be selected. All information regarding the Hazlewood Act presented in this handbook was taken directly from and is presented for information purposes only. All individuals applying for exemption under the Hazlewood Act are strongly encouraged to visit to review all information including but not limited to eligibility. In addition to the Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits, all students should also refer to the Howard College catalog and the Code of Student Conduct & Discipline (both located at for information including but not limited to admissions requirements, degree plans, academic calendar, and student rights. Please download and review the entire Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits and consider printing the parts identified below (items with an asterisk * must be printed and submitted). Page 19: Checklist for Required Documents for VA Education Benefits (1 page) (optional) Page 26: Checklist for Required Documents for Hazlewood Exemption Processing (1 page) (optional) *Page 32: Student Information Sheet (1 page) (required for all VA benefits and Hazlewood)) *Page 33: Failing Grades Policy (1 page) (required for all VA benefits; does not apply to Hazlewood) *Page 34-35: Student Responsibilities for VA Education Benefits (2 pages) (required for all VA benefits; does not apply to Hazlewood) *Page 36: Authorization to Disclose Information (1 page) (required for all VA benefits and Hazlewood) Any forms located in the appendices should only be printed if you choose not to use the online version as identified on each appendix page Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 2

3 Contents Welcome to Howard College... 5 Office Hours (All Campuses)... 5 College Contacts... 5 Veterans Education Benefits Coordinators / School Certifying Officials... 5 GI Bill Contact Information... 5 OEF/OIF/OND Care Management Program... 6 Texas Veterans Commission... 6 Veterans County Service Officers Association of Texas... 7 VA Education Benefits Chart... 8 VA Education Benefits Programs... 9 Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill... 9 Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill Transfer of Entitlement Chapter 30 Montgomery GI Bill Chapter 1606 Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) Chapter 1607 Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP) Chapter 35 Dependent s Educational Assistance Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Voc/Rehab) Steps for Using VA Education Benefits at Howard College Checklist for Required Documents for VA Education Benefits Important Information Regarding Your Benefits Payments Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill Transfer of Entitlement Chapter 30 Montgomery GI Bill Chapter 1606 Selected Reserve Chapter 1607 Reserve Educational Assistance Program Chapter 35 Dependent s Educational Assistance Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Voc/Rehab) Hazlewood Exemption Act for Texas Veterans Veteran Qualifications Hazlewood Act Application Process Eligible Institutions: Legacy Act (Child) Qualifications for Legacy Act (Child) Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 3

4 Legacy Act Application Process Hazlewood Act for Spouse/Child Qualifications (Spouse) Qualifications (Child) Application Process for Spouse/Child Hazlewood Act Frequently Asked Questions Checklist for Required Documents for Hazlewood Exemption Processing Additional Information Affecting All Veterans Education Benefits Steps for Admissions Into Howard College Establishing Your Veterans Benefits Student Record at Howard College Howard College Association of Veterans (San Angelo) Appendix A Application for Admission Appendix B VA Form Application for VA Education Benefits (Veterans) Appendix C VA Form e Application for Family Member to Use Transferred Benefits Appendix D VA Form Request for Change of Program or Place of Training Appendix E VA Form Dependent s Request for Change of Program of Place of Training Appendix F VA Form Direct Deposit Enrollment Appendix G Request for Certification of Enrollment Appendix H Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application Appendix I Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application for Continued Enrollment Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 4

5 Welcome to Howard College Thank you for choosing Howard College and for allowing us to be a part of your journey through higher education For learning, for earning for life. We are truly honored to have you as a student. Whether you are starting college for the first time, returning to college after being out for some time, or coming back to college to take courses to enhance your career (or perhaps start a new one), being a college student is not without its challenges. Rest assured, you are not alone as there are many who are pursuing a journey not so different than yours. The good news is the administrators, faculty, and staff of Howard College are here to guide you through your journey and provide assistance when needed. This is especially true for our students utilizing VA education benefits. If you have questions regarding your VA education benefits, your major, your class schedule, or any other topic, please feel free to contact us. We are here for you. Office Hours (All Campuses) During the regular fall and spring semesters, our campus offices are open from 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Thursday and 8:00am to 3:00pm on Friday. Campus offices are closed on the weekends and holidays. During the summer, our campuses are open from 7:30am to 5:00pm Monday through Thursday. Our campus offices are closed on Friday during the summer. College Contacts A full directory of our administrators, faculty, and staff can be found by visiting and the link for Directory at the top of the page. You can search for a staff member by last name and first name or just by last name. Once you find the individual, you will have access to their office phone number, address, and the opportunity to submit a message electronically. Veterans Education Benefits Coordinators / School Certifying Officials Each campus has a staff member, who serves as the Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator and/or School Certifying Official. In most cases, this individual is part of the Student Services staff such as an academic advisor. The individuals assigned at Big Spring and San Angelo are identified below: Howard College Big Spring Howard College San Angelo Student Success Center Buzz Refugio, Dean of Student Services 1001 Birdwell Lane 3501 North US Highway 67 Big Spring, TX San Angelo, TX Phone: Phone: x 3326 Fax: Fax: [email protected] Available by appointment only GI Bill Contact Information In addition to contacts at Howard College, you will also want to refer to the following contact information as it relates to VA education benefits: Benefits Information: Direct Deposit Information: Enrollment Verification (Chapter 30, Chapter 1606, and Chapter 1607): Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 5

6 OEF/OIF/OND Care Management Program The OEF/OIF/OND Care Management Program was established by the Department of Veterans Affairs to help veterans coordinate their care. Case managers, who are either nurses or social workers, coordinate patient care activities and help veterans navigate through the VA system. For Howard College Big Spring: West Texas VA Health Care System 300 Veterans Blvd. Big Spring, TX Phone (Toll Free): Phone: Fax: Web: For Howard College San Angelo: West Texas VA Health Care System 2018 Pulliam St. San Angelo, TX Phone: Phone: Web: Texas Veterans Commission The Texas Veterans Commission was created in 1927 as the State Service Office to assist veterans of the Indian Wars, Spanish-American War, and World War I. The Commission s purpose has always been to act as the state appointed advocate of veterans as they attempt to secure the benefits rightfully earned in exchange for their service in our nation s armed forces. The headquarters for the Texas Veterans Commission is located in Austin, Texas. The headquarters contact information is: Texas Veterans Commission P.O. Box Austin, TX Phone (Toll Free): Fax: [email protected] Howard College is part of Region 6 of the Texas Veterans Commission. The Region 6 representative is: Carolina A. Rivera, Program Specialist Texas Veterans Commission P.O. Box El Paso, TX Phone: Fax: [email protected] Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 6

7 For Howard College Big Spring, there are two Texas Veterans Commission offices: Texas Veterans Commission Texas Veterans Commission VA Medical Center Lamun-Lusk-Sanchez Texas State Veterans Home 300 Veterans Blvd North Highway 87 Big Spring, TX Big Spring, TX Phone: Phone: For Howard College San Angelo, the Texas Veterans Commission office is located at: Texas Veterans Commission Tom Green County 111 W. Beauregard Ave. San Angelo, TX Phone: Phone: Veterans County Service Officers Association of Texas The Veterans County Service Officers Association of Texas is a 501c3-19 non-profit veterans service organization. The association s mission is to develop professional highly qualified county service officers who are dedicated to providing outstanding services, education and support to all eligible veterans, dependents and survivors. Veterans County Service Officers are trained, certified, and accredited by the Texas Veterans Commission. They are appointed by the Commissioner s Court within each county to provide professional assistance on all VA benefits and work closely with other agencies regarding VA related issues. For Howard College Big Spring, the Veterans County Service Officer is located at: Texas Veterans Commission Lamun-Lusk-Sanchez Texas State Veterans Home 1809 North Highway 87 Big Spring, TX Phone: Fax: For Howard College San Angelo, the Veterans County Service Officer is located at: Texas Veterans Commission 111 W. Beauregard Ave. San Angelo, TX Phone: Fax: Web: Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 7

8 VA Education Benefits Chart Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 8

9 VA Education Benefits Programs The following is provided to you for information purposes only. Please refer to the Education & Training Home link at and click on Education programs. It is strongly encouraged that you read about each benefit program offered before making a selection. It is possible to be eligible for more than one benefit. Be sure to research each benefit carefully before making a decision on which one to apply for. Sometimes decisions are irreversible, especially concerning Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill. You may compare benefits by visiting Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill If you have at least 90 days of aggregate active duty service after Sept. 10, 2001, and are still on active duty, or if you are an honorably discharged Veteran or were discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days, you may be eligible for this VA-administered program. For approved programs, the Post-9/11 GI Bill provides up to 36 months of education benefits, generally payable for 15 years following your release from active duty. Institutions of higher learning participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program may make additional funds available for your education program without an additional charge to your GI Bill entitlement. The following payments may also be available: Monthly housing allowance Annual books and supplies stipend One-time rural benefit payment To see the current payment rates for the Post-9/11 GI Bill visit Some service members may also transfer unused GI Bill benefits to their dependents. Visit for more information. Other Factors to Consider Full tuition and fees are paid directly to the school for all public school in-state students. For those attending private or foreign schools, tuition and fees are capped at the national maximum rate. Learn more here. If you re attending a private institution of higher learning in Arizona, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, or Texas, you may be eligible for a higher tuition reimbursement rate. Learn more here. If you're attending a private or a public institution of higher learning (either private or public) as a nonresident, out-of-state student you may be eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program and entitled to additional education-related costs not covered by VA. Not everyone is eligible for this assistance. The time limit for Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill is 15 years from the last discharge or separation. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 9

10 Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill Transfer of Entitlement The transferability option under the Post-9/11 GI Bill allows service members to transfer all or some unused benefits to their spouse or dependent children. The Department of Defense (DOD) determines whether or not you can transfer benefits to your family. Once the DOD approves benefits for transfer, the new beneficiaries apply for them at VA. Eligible service members may transfer all 36 months or the portion of unused Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits (unless DOD or the Department of Homeland Security has limited the number of transferable months). If you're eligible, you may transfer benefits to the following individuals: Your spouse One or more of your children Any combination of spouse and child Family members must be enrolled in the Defense Eligibility Enrollment Reporting System (DEERS) and be eligible for benefits at the time of transfer to receive transferred benefits. The option to transfer is open to any member of the armed forces active duty or Selected Reserve, officer or enlisted who is eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, and meets the following criteria: Has at least six years of service in the armed forces (active duty and/or Selected Reserve) on the date of approval and agrees to serve four additional years in the armed forces from the date of election. Has at least 10 years of service in the armed forces (active duty and/or Selected Reserve) on the date of approval, is precluded by either standard policy (by Service Branch or DOD) or statute from committing to four additional years, and agrees to serve for the maximum amount of time allowed by such policy or statute. Is or becomes retirement-eligible and agrees to serve an additional four years of service on or after Aug. 1, A service member is considered to be retirement-eligible if he or she has completed 20 years of active federal service or 20 qualifying years as computed (pursuant to section of title 10 U.S.C.). Transfer requests are submitted and approved while the member is in the armed forces. Transfer Process. While in the armed forces, transferors use the Transfer of Education Benefits (TEB) website to designate, modify, and revoke a Transfer of Entitlement (TOE) request. After leaving the armed forces, transferors may provide a future effective date for use of TOE, modify the number of months transferred, or revoke entitlement transferred by submitting a written request to VA. You can submit a TEB request now for your Service component approval by visiting _adf.ctrl-state=409hxpi26_4. (NOTE: When the milconnect Home page displays, select Education then Transfer of Education Benefits [TEB] from the menu bar.) Upon approval, family members may apply to use transferred benefits with VA by printing, completing, and mailing the VA Form e to your nearest VA regional office of applying online. VA Form e should only be completed and submitted to VA by the family member after DOD has approved the request for TEB. Do not use VA Form e to apply for TEB. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 10

11 Other Factors to Consider Marriage and Divorce A child s subsequent marriage will not affect his or her eligibility to receive the educational benefit; however, after an individual has designated a child as a transferee under this section, the individual retains the right to revoke or modify the transfer at any time. A subsequent divorce will not affect the transferee s eligibility to receive educational benefits; however, after an individual has designated a spouse as a transferee under this section, the eligible individual retains the right to revoke or modify the transfer at any time. Nature of Transfer Family member use of transferred educational benefits is subject to the following rules: Spouses May start to use the benefit immediately May use the benefit while the member remains in the Armed Forces or after separation from active duty Are not eligible for the monthly housing allowance while the member is serving on active duty Can use the benefit for up to 15 years after the service member s last separation from active duty Children May start to use the benefit only after the individual making the transfer has completed at least 10 years of service in the armed forces May use the benefit while the eligible individual remains in the armed forces or after separation from active duty May not use the benefit until he or she has attained a secondary school diploma (or equivalency certificate), or he or she has reached age 18 Is entitled to the monthly housing allowance stipend even though the eligible individual is on active duty Is not subject to the 15-year delimiting date, but may not use the benefit after reaching 26 years of age Chapter 30 Montgomery GI Bill Chapter 30 Montgomery GI Bill provides education benefits to Veterans and service members who have at least two years of active duty. Assistance may be used for college degree and certificate programs, technical or vocational courses, flight training, apprenticeships or on-the-job training, high-tech training, licensing and certification tests, entrepreneurship training, certain entrance examinations, and correspondence courses. Remedial, deficiency, and refresher courses may be approved under certain circumstances. Benefits are generally payable for 10 years following your release from honorable active service. Eligible service members may receive up to 36 months of education benefits. The monthly benefit paid to you is based on the type of training you take, length of your service, your category, any college fund eligibility, and if you contributed to the $600 buy-up program. You usually have 10 years to use your MGIB benefits, but the Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 11

12 time limit can be fewer or more years depending on the situation. View current payment rates at Some service members may contribute up to an additional $600 to the GI Bill to receive increased monthly benefits. For an additional $600 contribution, you may receive up to $5,400 in additional GI Bill benefits. The additional contribution must be made while on active duty. View increased monthly rates at and contact your personnel or payroll office. You may be an eligible if you have an honorable discharge; AND you have a high school diploma or GED or in some cases 12 hours of college credit; AND you meet the requirements of one of the categories below: CATEGORY I Entered active duty for the first time after June 30, 1985 Had military pay reduced by $100 a month for first 12 months Continuously served for three years or two years, if that is what you first enlisted for or if you entered the Selected Reserve within a year of leaving active duty and served four years (the 2 by 4 program) CATEGORY II Entered active duty before January 1, 1977 Served at least one day between 10/19/84 and 6/30/85, and stayed on active duty through 6/30/88, (or through 6/30/87 if you entered the Selected Reserve within one year of leaving active duty and served four years) On 12/31/89, you had entitlement left from Vietnam-era GI Bill CATEGORY III Not eligible for MGIB under Category I or II On active duty on 9/30/90 AND separated involuntarily after 2/2/91 OR involuntarily separated on or after 11/30/93 OR voluntarily separated under either the Voluntary Separation Incentive (VSI) or Special Separation Benefit (SSB) program Before separation, you had military pay reduced by $1,200 CATEGORY IV On active duty on 10/9/96 AND you had money remaining in a VEAP account on that date AND you elected MGIB by 10/9/97 OR you entered full-time National Guard duty under title 32, USC, between 7/1/85, and 11/28/89, AND you elected MGIB during the period 10/9/96-07/08/97 Had military pay reduced by $100 a month for 12 months or made a $1,200 lump-sum contribution The time limit for Chapter 30 Montgomery GI Bill is 10 years from the last period of active duty. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 12

13 Chapter 1606 Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) The MGIB-SR program provides education and training benefits to eligible members of the Selected Reserve, including the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve and Coast Guard Reserve, and the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard. Eligibility for this program is determined by the Selected Reserve components and VA makes the payments. Assistance may be used for college degree and certificate programs, co-op training, technical or vocational courses, flight training, apprenticeships or on-the-job training, high-tech training, licensing and certification tests, entrepreneurship training, certain entrance examinations, and correspondence courses. Remedial, deficiency, and refresher courses may be approved under certain circumstances. You may be entitled to receive up to 36 months of education benefits. View current payment rates at To qualify, you must meet the following requirements: Have a six-year obligation to serve in the Selected Reserve signed after June 30, If you are an officer, you must have agreed to serve six years in addition to your original obligation. For some types of training, it is necessary to have a six-year commitment that begins after Sept. 30, Complete your initial active duty for training (IADT). Meet the requirement to receive a high school diploma or equivalency certificate before completing IADT. You may not use 12 hours toward a college degree to meet this requirement. Remain in good standing while serving in an active Selected Reserve unit. You will also retain MGIB-SR eligibility if you were discharged from Selected Reserve service due to a disability that was not caused by misconduct. Your eligibility period may be extended if you are ordered to active duty. Other Factors to Consider Your eligibility for the program normally ends the day you leave the Selected Reserve. An exception exists if you are mobilized or recalled to active duty from your reserve status in which case your eligibility may be extended for the amount of time you are mobilized PLUS four months. For example, if you are mobilized for 12 months, your eligibility period is extended for 16 months12 months of active duty PLUS four months. Even if you leave the Reserves after mobilization, you may have additional eligibility under the MGIB-SR. If your unit is deactivated during the period beginning on Oct. 1, 2007, through Sept. 30, 2014, or you are involuntarily separated for reasons other than misconduct you will retain your original period of eligibility, which is 14 years from the date of your first six-year obligation with the Selected Reserves. For this program, you must acquire the DD Form , Notice of Basic Eligibility, when you become eligible for the program. The time limit for Chapter 1606 Selected Reserve is 14 years from the date of eligibility for the program, or until released from the Selected Reserve or National Guard, whichever comes first. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 13

14 Chapter 1607 Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP) REAP provides educational assistance to members of the Reserve components called or ordered to active duty in response to a war or national emergency declared by the president or Congress. Reservists are eligible for education benefits or increased benefits to pursue college degrees and other training. Certain Reservists who were activated for at least 90 days after Sept. 11, 2001, may be eligible for benefits. View current payment rates at Some service members may contribute up to an additional $600 to the GI Bill to receive increased monthly benefits. For an additional $600 contribution, you may receive up to $5,400 in additional GI Bill benefits. The additional contribution must be made while on active duty. View increased monthly rates at and contact your personnel or payroll office. There is not a time limit for Chapter 1607 Reserve Educational Assistance Program as long as individual remains in the same level of the Ready Reserve from which called to active duty. There are exceptions for discharge due to disability or transfer from IRR to the Selected Reserve. REAP participants who separated from the Selected Reserve after completing their service contract under other than dishonorable conditions are now eligible for REAP benefits for 10 years after they are separated from the Selected Reserve. Chapter 35 Dependent s Educational Assistance The Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) program offers education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of Veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition or of Veterans who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-related condition. Benefits may be used for degree and certificate programs, apprenticeship, and on-the-job training. If you are a spouse, you may take a correspondence course. Remedial, deficiency, and refresher courses may be approved under certain circumstances. Those eligible for DEA benefits may also be eligible for this additional assistance: Special Restorative Training VA may prescribe special restorative training where needed to overcome or lessen the effects of a physical or mental disability for the purpose of enabling an eligible person to pursue a program of education, special vocational program, or other appropriate goal. Medical care and treatment or psychiatric treatments are not included. Special Vocational Training VA may also approve these benefits for an eligible person who is not in need of special restorative training, but who requires such a program because of a mental or physical disability. Section 301 of Public Law adds a new category to the definition of eligible person for DEA benefits. The new category covers the spouse or child of a person who VA determined has a serviceconnected permanent and total disability; and is at the time of VAs determination is a member of the armed forces who is hospitalized or receiving outpatient medical care, services, or treatment; and is likely to be discharged or released from service for this service-connected disability. Persons eligible under this new provision may be eligible for DEA benefits effective Dec. 23, 2006, the effective date of the law. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 14

15 You may receive up to 45 months of education benefits. Effective Oct. 1, 2013, some DEA beneficiaries may be eligible for up to 81 months of GI Bill benefits if they use the Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance program in conjunction with an entitlement from other VA education programs. View current payment rates at You must be the son, daughter, or spouse of: A Veteran who died or is permanently and totally disabled as the result of a service-connected disability. The disability must arise out of active service in the armed forces. A Veteran who died from any cause while such permanent and total service-connected disability was in existence. A service member missing in action or captured in line of duty by a hostile force. A service member forcibly detained or interned in line of duty by a foreign government or power. A service member who is hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment for a service connected permanent and total disability and is likely to be discharged for that disability. This change is effective Dec. 23, Other Factors to Consider If you are a son or daughter and wish to receive benefits for attending school or job training, you must be between the ages of 18 and 26. In certain instances, it is possible to begin before age 18 and to continue after age 26. Marriage is not a bar to this benefit. If you are in the armed forces, you may not receive this benefit while on active duty. To pursue training after military service, your discharge must not be under dishonorable conditions. VA can extend your period of eligibility by the number of months and days equal to the time spent on active duty. This extension cannot generally go beyond your 31st birthday, there are some exceptions. If you are a spouse, benefits end 10 years from the date VA finds you eligible or from the date of death of the Veteran. If VA rated the Veteran permanently and totally disabled with an effective date of three years from discharge, a spouse will remain eligible for 20 years from the effective date of the rating. This change is effective Oct. 10, 2008, and no benefits may be paid for any training taken prior to that date. For surviving spouses of service members who died on active duty, benefits end 20 years from the date of death. Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Voc/Rehab) You may receive vocational rehabilitation and employment services to help with job training, employment accommodations, resume development, and job seeking skills coaching. Other services may be provided to assist Veterans in starting their own businesses or independent living services for those who are severely disabled and unable to work in traditional employment. Services that may be provided by the VR&E Program include: Comprehensive rehabilitation evaluation to determine abilities, skills, and interests for employment Vocational counseling and rehabilitation planning for employment services Employment services such as job-training, job-seeking skills, resume development, and other work readiness assistance Assistance finding and keeping a job, including the use of special employer incentives and job accommodations On the Job Training (OJT), apprenticeships, and non-paid work experiences Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 15

16 Post-secondary training at a college, vocational, technical or business school Supportive rehabilitation services including case management, counseling, and medical referrals Independent living services for Veterans unable to work due to the severity of their disabilities Active Duty Service Members are eligible if they: Expect to receive an honorable discharge upon separation from active duty Obtain a memorandum rating of 20% or more from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and Apply for Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) services Or (until December 31, 2014) Are participating in the Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) or are certified by the military as having a severe injury or illness that may prevent them from performing their military duties Apply for Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) services, and Report for an evaluation with a VR&E counselor before separating from active duty Veterans are eligible if they: Have received, or will receive, a discharge that is other than dishonorable Have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10%, or a memorandum rating of 20% or more from the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) Apply for Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) services Basic period of Eligibility Date of separation from active military service, or Date the veteran was first notified by VA of a service-connected disability rating. The time limit for Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment is generally 12 years from VA notice to veteran of at least 10% disability rating. If you have further questions about Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Voc/Rehab), contact the regional office in Abilene at: U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs 400 Oak Street, Suite 103 Abilene, TX (325) Fax: (325) Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 16

17 Steps for Using VA Education Benefits at Howard College STEP 1 Apply for VA Education Benefits by going to Applying on line is recommended (click Apply for Benefits and then click Apply Online (VONAPP) ) to expedite your claim. A paper application ( ) may be printed and submitted, but it then has to be mailed to the VA Regional Office in Muskogee, Oklahoma and will take longer for the VA to process. The VA web site has several methods in place to help you determine which benefit is best for you. Please study these carefully. By virtue of guidance from the VA, and effective October 1, 2013, Howard College cannot provide any recommendations regarding education benefits since you are the only person who can choose which program best meets your needs. NOTE Your VA Education Benefits paid directly to you will be paid by check or direct deposit. Payments are made one month behind (i.e., September is paid in October, October is paid in November, etc.). Use the website ( to complete a Change of Program or Place of Training if you have used VA Education Benefits at another college. STEP 2 Wait It will take the VA 2-3 weeks to process electronic applications. Paper applications will take 6-8 weeks or longer. After your application is processed, VA will send you two (2) copies of your Certificate of Eligibility. Bring one copy your Certificate of Eligibility and your DD-214 (Member 4 or Copy 4) to the School Certifying Official for Howard College. STEP 3 Complete Admissions Requirements to Howard College and Register for Classes The admissions requirement for Howard College includes: 1. Complete and submit the application for admissions (printed copy is available at see Appendix A, or you can apply at 2. Submit an official copy of your high school transcripts and placement scores 3. Submit an official copy of college transcripts from previous colleges attended 4. Visit and request your official military transcripts be sent to Howard College 5. Provide proof of vaccination for bacterial meningitis (or proof of exemption) a. As of January 1, 2014, this requirement applies only to individuals 22 years of age or younger Once your admissions packet is complete, you will need to meet with an academic advisor to discuss your intended degree plan and then register for classes. After you have registered for classes, visit <Site> to complete and submit the Request for Certification of VA Benefits. This form is confirmation that you are enrolled and that you wish to use VA Education Benefits. The Request for Certification of VA Benefits is only valid for one term, so you must submit a new one every time you register for a new term. If you do not complete and submit the Request for Certification of VA Benefits each term, you will not receive payments from the VA. You will receive an notification from the VA as soon as Howard College has submitted your enrollment information so ensure that your address is correct when you submit your Request for Certification of VA Benefits. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 17

18 STEP 4 Verify Your Enrollment on WAVE (Web Automated Verification Enrollment) (For Chapter 30, Chapter 1606, and Chapter 1607 only) If you are receiving VA Education Benefits under Chapter 30, Chapter 1606, or Chapter 1607, you will need to visit (click Verify Attendance ) or call to verify your attendance on or after the last day of each month while attending school. If you do not verify your attendance/enrollment, the VA will not pay you. If you are receiving VA Education Benefits under Chapter 33 Post 9/11, you do not need to verify attendance. STEP 5 Maintain Communication with the School Certifying Official at Howard College If you have submitted a Request for Certification of VA Benefits and you make changes to your schedule (i.e., adding or dropping a course), you must advise the School Certifying Official at Howard College so that such changes can be reported to the VA. If you have missed three or more consecutive days of class or classes, change your contact information (address/phone/ ), change your banking information, or completely withdraw from school, you must advise the School Certifying Official at Howard College so that changes/updates can be reported to the VA. Failure to maintain communication with the School Certifying Official at Howard College may result in an over payment, which must be returned to the VA. NOTE If you drop a course after the census day of the semester, you will owe money back to the VA. STEP 6 Stay Informed Your WAVE account will give you information about your VA Education Benefits. You can also use your WAVE account to update your mailing address, your direct deposit account number, see if a payment has been mailed or deposited, and see if you have pending documents to be processed by the VA. The GI Bill website is a great resource of information. The site offers links to frequently asked questions, live chat, submitting a question, announcements, benefits calculation, applying for benefits, VA contact information, and much more. It is in your best interest to study all aspects of the benefits offered by the VA to make the best choice. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 18

19 Checklist for Required Documents for VA Education Benefits In order to receive your VA education benefit payments while enrolled at Howard College, you must submit the following documents to the VA benefits coordinator at your campus. Your enrollment cannot be certified to the VA for payment until these documents are on file. The following serves as a check-list: [SUBMIT] Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This document is mailed directly to you from the VA in response to your application for benefits on VONAPP. If you do not receive this document within 30 days of applying for benefits, call the Regional Processing Office in Muskogee, OK at (press 1, then 0 to get a customer service rep.) [SUBMIT] Student Information Sheet (Page 31), Failing Grades Policy (Page 32), Students Responsibilities for VA Benefits (Page 33-34) and Authorization to Disclose Information (Page 35). Be sure to sign where indicated and provide complete information, especially contact information (phone, , correct address). You must contact your VA school coordinator anytime this information changes to update your VA file. [SUBMIT] A copy of your DD-214 Member 4 or Form 2384 NOBE (notice of Basic Eligibility; for reservists). Submission of the DD-214 Member 4 or NOBE applies only to the veteran. If you are the spouse or child/dependent of the veteran and using the veteran s benefits, you do not need to submit either document. If the veteran needs to request another copy of his/her DD-214, he/she must visit [SUBMIT] Military Transcripts must be submitted if the veteran is the individual utilizing benefits. If you are the spouse or child/dependent of the veteran and using the veteran s benefits, you do not need to submit military transcripts. To order Army (AARTS) or Navy/Marine (SMART) transcripts, go to To order Coast Guard (CGI) transcripts, go to To order Air Force (CCAF) transcripts, go to [SUBMIT] Other College Transcripts (if any other were attended before or after the military) [SUBMIT] VA Form Request for Change in Program or Place of Training or VA Form Dependent s Request for Change of Program or Place of Training only if you have used your VA Benefits at another institution before transferring to Howard College. Degree Plan signed and dated by you and your advisor. If you are taking courses at Howard College to transfer to a specific degree plan at a different institution, while also taking classes at that institution in the same semester, you must provide a Parent Letter from the other institution. Also, if you are only taking courses at HC for transfer to another institution, but the courses do not fit an HC degree plan, you must also provide a Parent Letter from the other institution in order to be certified for payment. Ask your VA benefits coordinator for further details. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 19

20 Important Information Regarding Your Benefits Payments Your monthly benefit payments will come directly to you from the Department of Veteran Affairs, either by check or direct deposit (depending which method you indicated on your application). Payments that come directly to you are determined by the program you are covered under, as follows: Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill Transfer of Entitlement The Department of Veteran Affairs pays your tuition/fees directly to Howard College, according to your percentage of eligibility (40%-100%) as indicated on your Certificate of Eligibility letter. If your percentage of eligibility is less than 100%, you will be responsible for the remaining percentage of tuition/fees, unless you are also covered under another grant/scholarship program besides VA. (EX: PELL Grant, institutional scholarship, Hazlewood, etc.). Your monthly housing allowance (MHA) will be paid directly to you based on your percentage of eligibility. For example, if your percent of eligibility is 70%, you will only receive 70% of the MHA. You must be enrolled at a rate of pursuit of 51% or greater each semester in order to receive the MHA. NOTE: Beginning August 1, 2011 the MHA rate of pay will be paid according to the same level of enrollment. Example: you can only be paid the full rate for MHA if you are enrolled in 12 hours or more. If you are enrolled at 51%, but less than 100%, rate of pursuit, the VA will only pay the percentage of MHA equivalent for your school based on your rate of pursuit. For example, if you are enrolled in 7 hours (half-time) you will be paid HALF of the MHA allotted amount for your school. In addition to the MHA, the VA will also pay directly to you a one-time-per-semester payment for books and supplies. Your book/supplies payment is based on a fixed rate ($41.67) that is multiplied by the number of hours you are enrolled in. The book/supplies payment cannot exceed $1,000 per academic year. As such, if you received the book/supplies payment for fall and spring, you will most likely have exhausted the payment for the academic year. If you are taking summer school and your books/supplies payment has been exhausted, you will not receive the books/supplies payment for the summer. Chapter 30 Montgomery GI Bill Chapter 1606 Selected Reserve Chapter 1607 Reserve Educational Assistance Program Chapter 35 Dependent s Educational Assistance The Department of Veteran Affairs pays your benefit directly to you AFTER the semester begins at the rate in which you are enrolled. Chapter 30 Montgomery GI Bill o Chapter 1606 Selected Reserve o Chapter 1607 Reserve Educational Assistance Program o Chapter 35 Dependent s Educational Assistance o Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 20

21 Unless you are covered under another financial aid program (PELL grant, DOD tuition assistance, Hazlewood exemption for Texas residents, etc.), you are responsible for paying Howard College at least half (50%) of your tuition/fees out of pocket before the semester begins. Failure to pay half (50%) of your tuition/fees will result in your classes being dropped. If you are dropped for non-payment, it is your responsibility to get reinstated in your classes. You would meet with your advisor again to make sure the courses are still open, register and pay the amount required on that same day. It is ALSO YOUR responsibility to notify your campus VA benefits coordinator that you have been reinstated for enrollment certification with the VA. Enrollment Verification (Chapter 30, Chapter 1606, and Chapter 1607) If you are receiving benefits under the Chapter 30, Chapter 1606, or Chapter 1607 program, you are required to verify your enrollment monthly on WAVES. Failure to verify your enrollment will delay your next benefit payment. If the number of hours posted on WAVES is different from your actual enrollment, contact your campus VA benefits coordinator. To verify your enrollment, go to or phone in your verification at on the last day of each month, even if it falls on a weekend. Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Voc/Rehab) The Department of Veteran Affairs/Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment program provides payment of all tuition/fees directly to Howard College each semester. Cost of books and supplies is also covered under this program. The VA will send a monthly stipend to you, according to your contract with the VA Office. Howard College must have an authorization from the Vocational/Rehabilitation Division of the Department of Veteran Affairs before you can be eligible for this program. For more information, call the Abilene Regional Office at Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 21

22 Hazlewood Exemption Act for Texas Veterans The following is provided to you for information purposes only. All individuals applying for exemption under the Hazlewood Act are strongly encouraged to visit to review all information including but not limited to eligibility. The Hazlewood Act is a State of Texas benefit that provides qualified Veterans, spouses, and dependent children with an education benefit of up to 150 hours of tuition exemption, including most fee charges, at public institutions of higher education in Texas. This does NOT include living expenses, books, or supply fees. If you declared Texas as your Home of Record (HOR) or were a Texas resident when you entered the military and served at least 180 days, you may be eligible to receive the Hazlewood exemption of tuition and MOST fees (all course-related fees). You must have no federal Veteran s education benefits, or have no federal Veterans education benefits dedicated to the payment of tuition and fees only (such as Chapter 33 or 31; Pell and SEOG are not relevant) for term or semester enrolled that do not exceed the value of Hazlewood benefits. If you are covered under Chapter 30, 35, 1606 or any other program that does not provide tuition assistance, you may apply for Hazlewood exemption. The Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application can be found in Appendix H. All individuals utilizing Hazlewood Exemption must submit the Texas Hazlewood Exemption Application for Continued Enrollment (Appendix I) for each semester registered in which the exemption is to be used. Veteran Qualifications A Veteran must: At the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, designated Texas as Home of Record; or entered the service in Texas; or was a Texas resident; Have received an honorable discharge or separation or a general discharge under honorable conditions; Served at least 181 days of active duty service (excluding training); Have no federal Veteran s education benefits, or have no federal Veterans education benefits dedicated to the payment of tuition and fees only (such as Chapter 33 or 31; for term or semester enrolled that do not exceed the value of Hazlewood benefits; Not be in default on a student loan made or guaranteed by the State of Texas; Enroll in classes for which the college receives tax support (i.e., a course that does not depend solely on student tuition and fees to cover its cost), unless the college s governing board has ruled to let Veterans receive the benefit while taking non-funded courses; and Make satisfactory academic progress toward a degree or certificate in accordance with the institution's policy regarding eligibility for financial aid. (Effective fall 2014) Veterans who are granted their first Hazlewood Act exemption beginning fall, 2011 must reside in Texas during the semester or term for which the exemption is claimed. This requirement does not apply to the Veterans who either received the exemption prior to the academic year, have reenlisted into active duty, or reside with a spouse who is on active duty. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 22

23 Hazlewood Act Application Process A Veteran must: Apply and be accepted to a Texas public college or university of his/her choice. Go to to apply or use your institution's application for admission; Provide proof (DD214) from the Department of Defense regarding military service and the nature of discharge; Provide proof of eligibility or ineligibility for GI Bill benefits (Chapter 31, 33/Post-9/11) by requesting a certificate of eligibility for federal education benefits from (if Veteran has active duty service after 9/11/2001); Fill out the Hazlewood Exemption application form; and Turn in the Hazlewood Exemption application form, a copy of your letter of eligibility/ineligibility, and a copy of your DD214 into the financial aid office of the institution you will be attending. Applications and all supporting documentation must be received by the institution no later than the last day of class in order to be evaluated for the semester or term. Eligible Institutions: The Hazlewood Act is available only for use at a Texas public college or university. To access listings of Texas public colleges and universities, follow this link: Texas Institutions of Higher Education and select any of the schools listed under the Texas Public Institutions. The schools listed under Independent (Private) Institutions do NOT qualify for this exemption. Legacy Act (Child) Eligible Veterans may assign unused hours of exemption eligibility to a child under certain conditions. Qualifications for Legacy Act (Child) A child (legacy recipient) must: Qualify for resident tuition; Be the biological child, stepchild, adopted child, or claimed as a dependent in the current or previous tax year; Be 25 years old or younger on the first day of the semester or term for which the exemption is claimed (unless granted an extension due to a qualifying illness or debilitating condition); and Make satisfactory academic progress in a degree, certificate, or continuing education program as determined by the institution. Legacy recipients will receive an exemption for the number of degree certified hours reported by the institution for that term or semester. Maximum degree certified program in which the student is enrolled for the term or semester and shall be consistent with the program length as defined within the school catalog as approved by the regional accreditation commission. *If a child to whom hours have been delegated fails to use all of the assigned hours, a Veteran may re-assign the unused hours that are available to another child. Only one child will use Hazlewood Legacy benefits at a time. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 23

24 Legacy Act Application Process A child (legacy recipient) of a Veteran must: Apply and be accepted to a Texas public college or university. Go to to apply or use our institution's application for admission; Fill put the Hazlewood Exemption Application; Provide proof of eligibility or ineligibility for GI Bill benefits (Chapter 31, 33/Post-9/11) by requesting a certificate of eligibility for federal education benefits from and Take both applications, letter of eligibility/ineligibility (if needed), along with a copy of the Veteran s DD214, to the financial aid office of the institution you will be attending. Applications and all supporting documentation must be received by the institution no later than the last day of class of a term in order to be evaluated for that semester or term. Hazlewood Act for Spouse/Child Spouses and dependent children of eligible Active Duty, Reserve, and Texas National Guard who died in the line of duty or as a result of injury or illness directly related to military service, are missing in action, or who became totally disabled for purposes of employability as a result of a service-related injury or illness are entitled to each receive a 150 credit hours exemption. Qualifications (Spouse) A spouse must: Be a spouse of a Veteran who, at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, was a Texas resident, designated Texas as Home of Record, or entered the service in Texas; Be a spouse of a Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces or the Texas National Guard who died as a result of service-related injuries or illness, is missing in action, or became totally disabled (100%) as a result of service-related injury or illness or is entitled to receive compensation at the 100% rate due to individual employability (IU) due to a service connected injury or illness; Have no federal Veterans education benefits, or have no federal Veterans education benefits dedicated to the payment of tuition and fees only (such as Chapter 33 or 31) for term or semester enrolled that do not exceed the value of Hazlewood benefits; Qualify for resident tuition; and Make satisfactory academic progress in a degree, certificate, or continuing education program as determined by the institution. This requirement does not apply to the spouse of a service connected deceased or MIA Veteran. (Effective fall 2014). Qualifications (Child) A child must: Be a child of a Veteran who, at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, was a Texas resident, designated Texas as Home of Record, or entered the service in Texas; Be a child of a Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces, Texas National Guard, or Texas Air National Guard who died as a result of service-related injuries or illness, is missing in action, or became totally disabled (100%) as a result of a service-related injury or illness or is entitled to receive compensation at the 100% rate due to individual employability (IU) due to a service connected injury or illness; Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 24

25 Have no federal Veterans education benefits, or have no federal Veterans education benefits dedicated to the payment of tuition and fees only (such as Chapter 33 or 31; for term or semester enrolled that do not exceed the value of Hazlewood benefits; Qualify for resident tuition; and Make satisfactory academic progress in a degree, certificate, or continuing education program as determined by the institution. This requirement does not apply to the child of a service connected deceased or MIA Veteran. (Effective fall 2014). Application Process for Spouse/Child A spouse or child of a Veteran whose death was service connected, is MIA, or is/was 100% permanently disabled must: Apply and be accepted to a Texas public college or university. Go to or use your institution's application for admission; Provide a DD214 and a disability rating letter or a DD1300 Report of Casualty regarding the Veteran's death; Provide proof of eligibility or ineligibility for GI Bill benefits (Chapter 31, 33/Post/9-11) by requesting an education benefits letter from the VA at and Fill out the Hazlewood Exemption application form. Applications and all supporting documentation must be received by the institution no later than the last day of class of a term in order to be evaluated for that semester or term. Hazlewood Act Frequently Asked Questions The Texas Veterans Commission maintains a list of frequently asked questions related to the Hazlewood Act. Please visit to review the information from The Texas Veterans Commission. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 25

26 Checklist for Required Documents for Hazlewood Exemption Processing In order to process your application for Hazlewood Exemption, you must submit the following documents to the Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator and/or School Certifying Official at your campus. Please allow 5-7 business days for processing of your application. The following serves as a check-list: [SUBMIT] Student Information Sheet (Page 31) must be completed by the individual, who will be the student applying to use Hazlewood Exemption at Howard College. The veteran only needs to complete this form if he/she will be the student. [SUBMIT] Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application. This document must be completed by the veteran and/or the spouse/dependent regardless if the veteran will be the student or if the exemption is being transferred to a dependent or spouse. Failure to include the completed Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application will delay processing. A copy of the Texas Hazlewood Exemption Application is available in Appendix H. [SUBMIT] Copy of veteran s DD-214 Member 4 must be included when submitting the completed Application for Hazlewood Exemption (HE-V). The DD-214 Member 4 is the only document that will be accepted to determine if the veteran can be classified as a Texas Veteran. Failure to include the veteran s DD-214 Member 4 will delay processing. If the veteran needs to request another copy of his/her DD-214 Member, he/she must visit [SUBMIT] Proof that the veteran is a current resident of the State of Texas. A photocopy of the veteran s current, unexpired Texas Driver License must be submitted to demonstrate the veteran is a current resident of the State of Texas. If a current, unexpired Texas Driver License for the veteran is not available, a copy of a current utility bill (no more than one-month old, showing the veteran s name, and the physical address for which the utility bill is for) may be submitted as proof of residency. Failure to provide proof of residency will delay processing. [SUBMIT] Proof of marriage (if spouse) or dependency (if child/dependent) to the veteran. If the individual using Hazlewood Exemption is the spouse of the veteran, a photocopy of the individual and veteran s marriage certificate must be included. If the individual using Hazlewood Exemption is the child/dependent of the veteran, a photocopy of the individual s birth certificate showing the veteran s name must be included. If the child/dependent cannot produce a copy of his/her birth certificate showing the veteran s name, a copy of the veteran s most recent federal tax return documentation showing the child/dependent may be submitted as an alternate form of proof. Failure to provide proof of marriage/proof of dependency will delay processing. Degree plan must be filed by the individual, who will be a student if the individual will be using Hazlewood Exemption for academic programs. Hazlewood Exemption can only be used in conjunction with courses that apply directly to the selected degree plan. Courses not part of the selected degree plan will not be covered by the Hazlewood Exemption. A degree plan is not required if the individual is using Hazlewood Exemption for continuing education courses through the Howard College Office of Workforce Training and Continuing Education. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 26

27 Additional Information Affecting All Veterans Education Benefits Ineligible Course/Fees Neither VA, Hazlewood, nor federal student aid will pay for or cover any course that does not fit your degree plan. If you receive a D in a course and the credit for that graded course is applied to your degree plan (i.e. not showing as a course not used), neither VA, Hazlewood (effective Fall 2014), nor federal student aid will pay for or cover the course if it is repeated. Please check with an academic advisor before repeating any course in which you received a D or greater. With regards to the VA, if you are notified by the VA that you have been certified for less hours than you are enrolled in, contact your campus VA benefits coordinator to see if it is due to an ineligible course. You will not be certified for payment for any ineligible course. If the course is being substituted for a course which does fit your plan, an official course substitution must be filed with registrar s office from the appropriate division chair before the course will be certified. With regards to the VA, if you receive an F for a course, it will be reported to the VA and will result in an adjustment of your initially certified hours. With regards to the VA, if you receive an F for a course as a result of engaging in academic dishonesty, it will be reported to the VA and will result in an adjustment made. The VA may also apply other sanctions. With regards to the VA, if you are placed on academic probation or academic suspension, it will be reported to the VA and will result in adjustment of your initially certified hours. With regards to the VA, if it is reported that you are not attending the course or making progress in the course, it will be reported to the VA, your certification for the course will be cancelled, and the hours you were initially certified for will be adjusted. Other ineligible courses and fees are: o Classes for continuing education (CEU) credit only; o Fees associated with taking a course for the third time (three-peat); o Late registration and/or change in schedule fees (i.e., Add/Drop Fee). College-Preparatory Courses If you self-elect to take college preparatory courses to ensure your success in the college-level courses, you must first take a placement test and scores must be in your VA file to be certified for these courses. Stateapproved scores from another in-state institution are eligible for this requirement. It is strongly recommended: You meet with your campus VA benefits coordinator each semester BEFORE registering for classes to make sure your courses fit your degree plan; You meet with your campus VA benefits coordinator any time BEFORE you drop a class to be informed of the effect it will have on your VA benefits; You pre-register for classes as soon as pre-registration opens prior to each semester. o The sooner you register for the next semester, the sooner you can be certified which means the sooner the VA will send you your money. o Early registration also ensures a class schedule that is best for you, before classes begin to close. You must contact your campus VA Benefits Coordinator, if one of the following conditions occur: Change in class schedule any time during a semester or BEFORE the semester begins A complete withdrawal from classes and the reason for the withdrawal Any cancelled classes due to low enrollment Changes in degree plan Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 27

28 Non-Attendance Change in address/phone/ Repeated courses Need for tutoring or other assistance in a course outside the classroom Other information that may threaten your academic success Satisfactory Academic Progress for Hazlewood Exemption Effective Fall 2014, all individuals (veterans and dependents) utilizing the Hazlewood Exemption must maintain satisfactory academic progress as established by financial aid standards for the institution. If you receive a D in a course and the credit for that graded course is applied to your degree plan (i.e. not showing as a course not used), Hazlewood Exemption will not cover the course if it is repeated. Please check with an academic advisor before repeating any course in which you received a D or greater. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 28

29 Steps for Admissions Into Howard College STEP 1 Apply for Admissions Visit click on Come to HC, choose Apply to Howard College, and then Veteran Applicants. You will need to print the application packet out in order to complete it. A hard copy is included in Appendix A. The completed application can be mailed or faxed to the campus you plan on attending. Howard College Big Spring Howard College San Angelo Enrollment Services Office of Admissions & Records 1001 Birdwell Lane 3501 North US Highway 67 Big Spring, TX San Angelo, TX Fax: Fax: You can also apply online by visiting and complete the common application. When completing the application online, you will select Howard College located in Big Spring, Texas (our main campus). For assistance regarding admissions to our Big Spring campus, please contact Enrollment Services at ([email protected]). For assistance regarding admissions to our San Angelo campus, please Admissions & Records at ([email protected]). STEP 2 Submit Official Transcripts Your official high school transcripts (with date of graduation) (or GED scores), military transcripts (if you are the veteran), and transcripts from other colleges/universities (if applicable), must be sent to the campus you are planning on attending. Howard College Big Spring Howard College San Angelo Enrollment Services Office of Admissions & Records 1001 Birdwell Lane 3501 North US Highway 67 Big Spring, TX San Angelo, TX Fax: Fax: To order your Army (AARTS) or Navy/Marine (SMART) transcripts, go to To order your Coast Guard (CGI) transcripts, go to To order your Air Force (CCAF) transcripts, go to STEP 3 Apply for Federal Student Financial Aid It is important to note that your VA benefits may not necessarily cover the entire cost of your education at Howard College. All Howard College students are encouraged to apply for federal student aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at Our school FICE Code is Applying for federal student aid is optional, but is highly recommended to help offset the cost of your education every academic year. When you apply, you will be evaluated for federal student aid such as the Pell Grant and student loans. There is no obligation to accept any federal student aid awarded as a result of completing the FAFSA. For assistance regarding federal student financial aid, please visit the Financial Aid Office for your campus. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 29

30 STEP 4 Placement Testing Veterans with an honorable discharge are considered exempt from placement testing for college admissions and are considered to be college-level ready in reading, writing, and math. As such, veterans can go directly into a college-level reading, writing, and/or math course without further placement testing. However, it is important to note that being considered college-level ready for reading, writing, and math by virtue of service does not necessarily mean the veteran is indeed ready for college-level math, for example. Although veterans are exempt from placement testing for college admission, if you believe you are going to need college-preparatory courses (formerly referred to as developmental courses), it is highly recommended that you take the TSI Assessment for the area (reading, writing, and/or math) that you believe you are deficient in or need college-preparatory courses for. Each section is $ The VA will only cover college-preparatory courses if a veteran s scores indicate such need. For more information regarding the TSI Assessment including access to practice questions and scheduled test dates, please visit STEP 5 File Your Official Degree Plan and Register for Courses Your degree plan is a critical component to your success at Howard College. First, it provides information regarding the major you are pursuing and the degree to be awarded. Second, it provides you with the information you need in order to track your progress through your program by identifying the courses you need for your major. You can access your degree plan anytime by visiting Note regarding changing majors: It is important to note that as a Howard College student, you are only permitted three (3) changes of major during your entire time as a student of Howard College. Changing majors will require you to complete a Change of Program or Place of Training form (VA Form ). Once you change your major, you will be given a new degree plan to follow. You can register for courses in person with an academic advisor or you can register online by visiting STEP 6 Acquiring Your Student ID If you are scheduled to be awarded federal student financial aid, it is important that you acquire your Student ID card no earlier than the second week of classes. Any residual amount from your award is refunded to you via your Student ID card. Even if you are not scheduled to receive federal student financial aid, you are strongly encouraged to acquire your Student ID card for identification purposes while on campus. There are also local businesses that offer discounts to customers, who are also college students with a valid Student ID. Please visit the Student Services Office on your campus to determine when Student ID s will be produced. You must show a valid photo ID and proof of enrollment (i.e., copy of your printed schedule). Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 30

31 Establishing Your Veterans Benefits Student Record at Howard College The Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator and/or School Certifying Official for your campus is required to maintain a record of each student utilizing veterans education benefits. General Instructions 1. All students utilizing some type of veterans education benefit, must print and complete the Student Information Sheet on Page Pages should only be completed by students utilizing education benefits administered through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). 3. All students must complete the Authorization to Disclose Information form on Page 35. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 31

32 STUDENT INFORMATION SHEET (Please print clearly) PRINT AND COMPLETE THIS PAGE. RETURN TO VETERANS BENEFITS COORDINATOR OR SCHOOL CERITFYING OFFICIAL Please check 0NE of the following: I am a NEW STUDENT and have NEVER USED my education benefits before. I am a RETURNING STUDENT who has received education benefits at Howard College in the past. I am a TRANSFER STUDENT who used education benefits at another school(s). (VA Benefits: Attach proof of completion of VA Form (veteran) or (dependents) Request for Change of Program or Place of Training. How many previous schools have you attended? (list schools below) I am a GUEST STUDENT who is taking courses at HC concurrently with another school toward a degree at that institution. Attach Parent Letter from that institution. See VA Benefits Coordinator for assistance, if needed. Today s Date: HC Student ID #: Name: Social Security Number: Date of Birth: Address: Street City/State/Zip Phone Number: Degree/Major: 1 st Semester: Your Veteran Benefits Program: Chapter 30 Montgomery GI Bill Chapter 33 Post 9/11 TOE for Veteran Dependents Chapter 35 Dependent s Education Assistance Chapter 31 Vocational Rehab Chapter 1606 Reservist Hazlewood Exemption Veteran Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill Chapter 1607 REAP Hazlewood Exemption Spouse Dependent Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 32

33 FAILING GRADES POLICY PRINT AND COMPLETE THIS PAGE. RETURN TO VETERANS BENEFITS COORDINATOR OR SCHOOL CERITFYING OFFICIAL I understand and agree that if I receive failing (F) grades for one or more of my courses for any semester for which I have been certified to receive benefits, I may be indebted to the Department of Veteran affairs for the amount of benefits I received for the course(s), depending on my last date of attendance. The VA Certifying School Official is required to report last dates of attendance (LDA) for every course in which I make an F. If the Department of Veteran Affairs warrants an overpayment based on my last date of attendance, I will receive a Notification of Debt from the Department of Veteran Affairs and will be required to pay the amount owed on the notification. If my absence from classes that resulted in the failing grade was due to mitigating circumstances, it is MY responsibility to notify the VA Certifying Official BEFORE the end of the semester of my situation. By reporting a mitigating circumstance, I may be pardoned by the VA for the debt, depending on their decision. I also understand that Howard College is in no way responsible for any debt owed to the Veteran Affairs Office for any courses that I fail to complete successfully and/or fail to report a mitigating circumstance. Student Signature Date Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 33

34 STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES FOR VA EDUCATION BENEFITS (Read each statement and indicate your understanding with your initials) While receiving VA education benefits at Howard College, I understand that: I must submit copies of ALL official transcripts from previous colleges attended by the end of the first semester of enrollment to the HC Office of Admissions for evaluation of prior training credit. I can be paid ONLY for those courses which are listed on my selected degree plan. If I am enrolled in any courses outside of my degree plan, the VA Certifying Official will not certify me for those particular hours, unless I contact her and report a change in degree plan, or other academic circumstances (i.e., transfer courses to a university, etc.) I will not be paid for courses which I have already successfully completed (C or better), no matter which school the course was completed. I will not be certified for enrollment until an official degree plan is on file. It is my responsibility to meet with my advisor and submit the degree plan to the Veteran School Official at the beginning of my first semester. I AM RESPONSIBLE AND MUST notify the VA Certifying School Official IMMEDIATELY, if I change my class schedule at ANY time BEFORE or DURING the semester in which I was pre-registered or certified for. Failure to notify the school official can result in a delay in certification adjustment, which could cause an overpayment/debt with the VA. If special circumstances require college preparatory courses in which I am normally exempt from, the VA certifying school official must receive written notice from my advisor explaining the reason for the recommendation for these courses and/or placement test scores. If I wish to have my military training credit evaluated for transfer to my Howard College degree plan, I must request such transfer in writing to the certifying school official. If I wish to NOT be paid by the VA for any semester that I am enrolled, it is my responsibility to notify the certifying school official in writing PRIOR to the semester. I further understand that I will automatically be certified for payment for each semester I am enrolled UNLESS I provide such notification. PRINT AND COMPLETE THIS PAGE. RETURN TO VETERANS BENEFITS COORDINATOR OR SCHOOL CERITFYING OFFICIAL FOR CHAPTER 30 MONTGOMERY GI BILL, CHAPTER 1606 SELECTED RESERVE, & CHAPTER 1607 REAP I am responsible for the payment of my tuition, fees, books and supplies directly to Howard College and I know that my education benefits are sent directly to me from the Department of Veteran Affairs. I also understand that Howard College is in no way involved in the calculation of my benefit amount, other than certifying the correct number of semester hours I am enrolled each semester. Any questions regarding the timeliness and amount of my benefit payments must be directed to the Department of Veteran Affairs at I must verify my enrollment on the last day of each month to the Department of Veteran Affairs in order to receive my monthly benefit checks. Verification can be completed online at and click on WAVE link. Or I can call in the verification at Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 34

35 FOR CHAPTER 33 POST 9/11 GI BILL AND CHAPTER 33 TOE PRINT AND COMPLETE THIS PAGE. RETURN TO VETERANS BENEFITS COORDINATOR OR SCHOOL CERITFYING OFFICIAL I must submit a Certificate of Eligibility letter sent from the Department of Veteran Affairs to the School Certifying Official on or before the day I register for classes in my initial semester. I further understand that if I have not received and/or submitted such letter at the time of registration, I will be responsible for paying my tuition/fees out of pocket until the Certificate of Eligibility is received, unless I am awarded other types of aid such as federal PELL grant or scholarships by the deadline to pay for classes. I also understand that I will be responsible for payment of any remaining percentile of coverage that the VA does not cover. For example, if I am only eligible for 70% coverage under the Post 9/11 GI Bill, I will be responsible for 30% of my total tuition/fees. I further understand that my book allowance will come directly from the Department of Veteran Affairs and may not arrive until after school has started, depending on when I register and when I receive the Certificate of Eligibility. I know that I am responsible for buying my books out of pocket, unless I am receiving other types of financial aid, such as PELL grant, book scholarship, etc. I further understand that the rate of pursuit of my education goals must be at least 51% in order to receive a Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). For example, if the full-time rate for a semester is 12 hours and 6 hours would be considered 50%, I must be enrolled in at least 7 hours for a long-term semester. Summer hours would require me to be enrolled in at least 4 semester hours to satisfy 51% of a regular 6-week summer term. Mini 3-week terms would only require 3 semester hours. I also understand that I must be enrolled in at least one face-to-face course each semester to receive the BAH from the VA. FOR CHAPTER 35 DEPENDENT S EDUCATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM I understand that I cannot be certified for enrollment until a Certificate of Eligibility letter is received from the VA and submitted to the Certifying School Official. Until that time, my file will remain in pending and no payments will be received from the VA until this letter is on file at HC. I certify that I have read and understand the above student responsibilities, thus I am requesting to be considered for certification under the Veteran Affairs Educational Benefits program indicated on my information sheet. Student Signature Date Veterans Benefits Coordinator/School Certifying Official Date Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 35

36 AUTHORIZATION TO DISCLOSE INFORMATION PRINT AND COMPLETE THIS PAGE. RETURN TO VETERANS BENEFITS COORDINATOR OR SCHOOL CERITFYING OFFICIAL This authorization is administered for the purpose of complying with the U.S. Department of Education regulation found at 34 CFR Part 99. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Sec of the regulation addresses prior consent required to disclose information. Student Authorization I authorize the Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator and/or School Certifying Official at Howard College to disclose information related to my veterans education benefits to the designated party or class of parties as specified below. If you do not wish to allow anyone to disclose your information, please place None in the first line. Name: Relationship: Name: Relationship: Name: Relationship: Name: Relationship: Certification By signing and dating this document, I acknowledge that the Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator and/or School Certifying Official at Howard College has the right to disclose information related to my veterans education benefits or any other information to the party or class of parties I have designated. Student Signature Date Printed Name of Student Social Security Number SECTION BELOW TO BE USED FOR HAZLEWOOD PROCESSING ONLY Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 36

37 Howard College Association of Veterans (San Angelo) Opportunities for Involvement and Support Membership into the Howard College Association of Veterans is open to all student veterans (regardless of discharge status) and all students interested in supporting the veteran community. The purpose and mission of the Howard College Association of Veterans on the San Angelo campus of Howard College is to: Promote camaraderie; Advocate for veterans in San Angelo and Tom Green County community; Provide for student leadership opportunities; Enhance the quality of life for the entire community through service. On-Going Programs HCAV TTAP (Howard College Association of Veterans Temporary Textbook Assistance Program) The Temporary Textbook Assistance Program was created by members of HCAV who chose to donate their textbooks to the organization rather than selling them back to the bookstore or to other students. The purpose of the Temporary Textbook Assistance Program is to provide learning resources for a student utilizing VA education benefits while they wait for funds to arrive from the VA so that they can purchase the book(s) needed for the course. HCAV PPC (Howard College Association of Veterans Pennies for Patriots Campaign) The Pennies for Patriots Campaign is a continuous fund raising event sponsored by the Howard College Association of Veterans. All proceeds from the campaign are donated to an organization dedicated to supporting veterans. HCAV Supply Drop For our men and women serving overseas, the arrival of supplies from home is probably one of the greatest motivators. The purpose of Supply Drop is to collect various items that can be sent to our troops in the form of a care package. HCAV Mail Call In addition to receiving supplies from home, our men and women overseas really appreciate letters from home. You. Find us on us at [email protected] Join us by visiting Howard College Association of Veterans is a proud chapter member of the Student Veterans of America. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 37

38 Appendix A Application for Admission The application for admission to Howard College must be completed and submitted to the appropriate campus for processing. Howard College Big Spring Howard College San Angelo Enrollment Services Office of Admissions & Records 1001 Birdwell Lane 3501 North US Highway 67 Big Spring, TX San Angelo, TX Fax: Fax: You can also apply online by visiting and complete the common application. When completing the application online, you will select Howard College located in Big Spring, Texas (our main campus). There is not an application fee. For assistance regarding admissions to our Big Spring campus, please contact Enrollment Services at ([email protected]). For assistance regarding admissions to our San Angelo campus, please Admissions & Records at ([email protected]). Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 38

39 Application for Admission Instructions: Please print or type a response to each question. All documents submitted to the college become part of the official files and cannot be returned. (use black ink) Semester/Year for which you are applying: Fall Spring Mini Summer I Summer II Year: Location of Campus: San Angelo Big Spring Lamesa Southwest Collegiate Institute for the Deaf (SWCID) PART A. STUDENT BACKGROUND ID # 1. Name (Last, First, Middle Initial) 2. Prior Names 3. Date of Birth 4. Social Security Number 5. Male Female 6. Mailing Address (Street or P.O. Box) City State Zip Code 7. County 8. Permanent Address (Street or P.O. Box) City State Zip Code 9. Address 10. Home Phone Number 11. Work Phone Number 12. Cell Phone Number 12. Ethnic Data (These items are used to satisfy State/Federal reporting requirements and in no way affect the admission decision.) White Black Hispanic Asian/Pacific Islander American Indian/Alaskan Native Other (Foreign Students Only) 13. Education Background: High School last attended: City/State: 14. (a) Did you graduate? YES NO If YES, date: (b) If NO, do you have a GED? YES NO If YES, date received: Was GED received Out of State of Texas: YES NO City/State (c) If NO to a & b please complete the rest of the application admission and you will need to request the individual approval request form from the Registrar s office and it must accompany the application. 15. Are you currently in high school? YES NO If YES, go to Number 16. If NO, go to number Will you be attending as a (an) Dual Credit (Concurrent Enrollment) student Early Admissions student? Dual Credit (Concurrent Enrollment) You are enrolling in a class which you will earn both high school and college credit. Early Admissions - You are still in high school and not receiving high school credit. (Both Dual Credit and Early Admissions requires a completed Concurrent Enrollment form and a high school transcript.) 17. Is this your first time in college? YES NO If YES, go to number 23. If NO, go to number Have you attended Howard College previously? YES NO If YES, give dates of attendance: 19. Are you concurrently enrolling in Howard College and any other college? (Name of College): 20. List ALL colleges or universities you have attended. Failure to disclose all colleges may result in non-admission or dismissal, if enrolled. An official transcript that includes final grades is required from all institutions previously attended. Failure to provide transcripts during the first semester of enrollment may prevent the student from re-enrolling. Other Colleges/Universities Attended: Name City State from to Degree Received? YES NO from to Degree Received? YES NO from to Degree Received? YES NO 21. Current college status: 0 to 29 hours 30 to 59 hours 60 hours Are you on academic probation/suspension at any school? YES NO 23. Degree you are seeking? Associate in Arts Associate in Science Associate in Applied Science Certificate 24. What is your Major? TSI STATUS I have taken the TASP, THEA, or OTHER ALTERNATIVE TEST. I have not taken any Placement test. I am exempt from the THEA test. If exempt, how. (Check one) ACT SAT TAKS Honorable Military Discharge Active Military Previous Degree Credit earned prior to Fall 1989 I authorize Howard College to obtain my Texas State Initiative scores and/or THEA scores/status from the National Evaluation Systems or from any schools previously attended. Signature Date Rev. March 21, 2011

40 PART B. RESIDENCY ISSUES 1. Are you a U.S. citizen? YES NO If YES, go to number 2. If NO, do you hold a Permanent Resident status for the U.S.? YES NO If YES, date permanent resident card issued: Number: Country of Citizenship: Have you enclosed a copy of your Resident Alien Card? YES NO 2. Are you a Texas resident? YES NO If YES, go to number 3. If NO, go to PART C. 3. Upon whom are you basing your claim of residence status? SELF PARENT LEGAL GUARDIAN*(Guardian papers must be provided.) If SELF, go to number 4. If PARENT or LEGAL GUARDIAN, go to number 5. (If you are 17 years or younger, or a dependent of your parent or legal guardian for federal tax purposes, you must go to number 5.) 4. If your claim of residence status is based upon self, answer the following questions: a. How long have you resided in Texas? Years Months b. Previous state or country of residence: c. If you came here within the past 5 years, why did you move to Texas? EDUCATION EMPLOYMENT OTHER: d. Have you lived in Howard County for the last six months? YES NO If NO, date moved to Howard County: e. Have you been employed in Texas for the last 12 months? YES NO Employer s name: Phone No.: Employer s address: Period of employment: to Position: PART-TIME FULL-TIME 5. If your claim for residence status is based upon Parent or Legal Guardian, please answer the following questions: a. Name of person upon whom claim is based: Address: b. Relationship to self: PARENT LEGAL GUARDIAN c. Is this person a U.S. citizen? YES NO If NO, does this person hold a Permanent Residence status for the U.S.? YES NO d. How long has this person resided in Texas? Years Months e. Previous state or country of residence: f. If this person came here within the past 5 years, why did this person move to Texas? g. Has this person lived in Howard County for the last six months? YES NO If NO, date moved to Howard County: h. Has a parent or legal guardian claimed you as a dependent for U.S. federal income tax purposes for the tax preceding your registration? YES NO i. Will this person claim you the current tax year? YES NO 6. If your claim of residency is based upon active military assignments in Texas, please answer. a. Person on active duty SELF SPOUSE PARENT/LEGAL GUARDIAN b. Home of Record (State of legal residence) c. Has proof of military assignment in Texas been provided to this institution s Office of Admission/Registrar? YES NO PART C. OATH OF RESIDENCY I authorize that information submitted herein will be ruled upon by college officials to determine my status for admission and residency eligibility. I authorize the college to verify the information I provided. I agree to notify the proper officials of the institution of any changes in the information provided. I certify that the information of this application is complete and correct and understand that the submission of false information is grounds for reelection of my application, withdrawal of any offer of acceptance, cancellation of enrollment, or appropriate disciplinary action. Signature: Date: Rev. March 21, 2011

41 Admissions Agreement (Last) First Middle Initial Social Security Number Address City, State, Zip Area Code + Telephone Number I understand that if I do not have the *following on file by the end of the semester that I will not be allowed to register for the next semester. My records will be tagged and I will not be able to receive a transcript of any grade earned at Howard College. *Any documents required for admission *High School with graduation date or a GED Certificate *College and/or Universities Transcripts in sealed envelope *Any documents required for Texas Success Initiative for compliance (including test scores) TEXAS SUCCESS INITIATIVE (TSI) RELEASE AGREEMENT I have read and understand the following: 1. If I am a first-time student and do not have college-level skills in reading, writing, or math, as determined by initial testing, I will be placed in a college developmental program to improve any skill areas that are found deficient. I must enroll in a preparatory class in order to enroll in any college level credit classes. (Failure to take any part of the exam results in a failing score.) 2. If I am a returning student and I fail any portion of the approved TSI success test, I must enroll in a preparatory class in at least one area in order to enroll in any college level credit classes. (Failure to take any part of the exam results in a failing score.) 3. If I am TSI exempt, I must present proof of the TSI exemption in order to enroll at Howard College. 4. If I am enrolled at Howard College and violate any of the TSI guidelines, I understand that I will be withdrawn from all of my classes. Ref # STUDENT DATA UPDATE FOR GOVERNMENT REPORTS Please circle YES or NO to the following questions. 1 Are you enrolled in a preparatory class or Adult Basic Education (ABE) because of TASP or Yes No placement scores? 2 Are you receiving Pell Grant or other Federal Assistance? Yes No 3 Do you have a disability that substantially limits a major life activity? Yes No 4 Do you have difficulty speaking or understanding instructions in the English language? Yes No 7 Are you a homemaker no longer supported by public assistance and having difficulty obtaining Yes No employment? 8 Are you a single parent? Yes No What is your primary reason for attending classes at this college? (Circle One) 1. Earn an associate degree (2 year). 4. Get a new or better job or improve a skill for current job. 2. Earn a certificate (less than 2 years). 5. Personal enrichment. 3. Earn credits for transfer. I understand information addressing Bacterial Meningitis and Academic Advising is available for review on Campus Connect on the Howard College website; Student s Signature Date It is the policy of Howard College not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, veteran status, or any other legally protected status in educational programs, activities, admission, or employment practices. Revised: March 22, 2011

42 HOWARD COLLEGE STUDENT RECORDS RELEASE REQUEST To: Registrar s Office Howard College From: Name of Student Social Security Number Street Address City State Zip Code Under Federal legislation, namely the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, I understand that my educational records cannot be released without my written permission. I, therefore, request that the information listed below be released to the following: Name of Person authorized to receive my information Street Address City State Zip Information to be released: All Records (Academic and Financial) Academic Records Financial Records Signature of Student Date Education For Learning, For Earning, For Life!

43 HOWARD COLLEGE STUDENT RECORDS RESTRICTION REQUEST The items listed under Directory Information may be released in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), as amended. Under the provisions of FERPA, as amended, you have the right to withhold the disclosure of Directory Information. Please consider carefully the consequences of any decision to withhold Directory Information. Should you decide to inform this institution not to release Directory Information, any future request for such information from non-institutional persons or organizations will be refused. For example, the college would be unable to verify degree, major, or enrollment for possible employment, credit card applications, insurance purposes, mortgage information, apartment leases, etc. Should you decide to withhold Directory Information, you may authorize at a later date on a transaction-by-transaction basis the release of directory or non-directory information or you may cancel withhold for instructions. The withhold directory flag will remain on your records after graduation if you have requested that the information be withheld; therefore, we will not be able to verify your dates of enrollment and/or degree(s) to potential employers. (See below for removal of Withhold Directory Information designation). Howard College/SWCID will honor your request to withhold the information listed below but cannot assume responsibility to contact you for subsequent permission to release that information. Regardless of the effect upon you. Howard College/SWCID assumes no liability for honoring your request for information to be withheld. Directory Information Includes the following: Student s full name Addresses (Physical and college assigned ) Telephone listings Date and place of birth Major field of study Participation in officially recognized activities and sports Photograph Weight and height of members of athletic teams Date of attendance Degrees and awards received Most recent previous school/college/university attended Classification This form should be submitted to the Registrar s Office on or before the semester or session. Forms will be accepted after these deadlines, but we cannot be responsible for the release of Directory Information prior to receiving the Directory Information Withhold request in the Registrar s Office. Withhold Directory Information I want Directory Information to be withheld. (Directory Information includes all items listed above). I wish to prevent the disclosure of my Directory Information and understand the ramifications of doing so. Name (print) Social Security # Signature Date From the date this form is received in the Registrar s Office, we will honor your request to Withhold Directory Information until you request in writing that you wish to remove the Withhold Directory Information designation. You may authorize the release of information in writing on a transaction-by-transaction basis without removing the Withhold Directory Information designation (see above). Release Directory Information I want Directory Information to be released. (Directory Information includes all items listed above). I no longer wish to prevent the disclosure of my Directory Information and release Howard College from any responsibility to withhold open Directory Information from the date this form is received in the Registrar s Office. Name (print) Social Security # Signature Date Please return this form to the Student Records Office in order to have your records marked private. Your Request for Privacy will not be effective until this form is received by the Student Records Office. Education For Learning, For Earning, For Life!

44 Appendix B VA Form Application for VA Education Benefits (Veterans) The VA Form is the form to be completed by all veterans who plan on utilizing their VA education benefits. VA Form can be completed online by visiting If you choose to complete the hard-copy of the VA Form , it is strongly recommended you send the completed form to the Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator or School Certifying Official for the appropriate campus. Howard College Big Spring Howard College San Angelo Student Success Center Buzz Refugio, Dean of Student Services 1001 Birdwell Lane 3501 North US Highway 67 Big Spring, TX San Angelo, TX Phone: Phone: x 3326 Fax: Fax: [email protected] Available by appointment only Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 39

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52 Appendix C VA Form e Application for Family Member to Use Transferred Benefits The VA Form e is the form to be completed by the individual who received benefits transferred by the veteran. VA Form e can be completed online by visiting If you choose to complete the hard-copy of the VA Form e, it is strongly recommended you send the completed form to the Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator or School Certifying Official for the appropriate campus. Howard College Big Spring Howard College San Angelo Student Success Center Buzz Refugio, Dean of Student Services 1001 Birdwell Lane 3501 North US Highway 67 Big Spring, TX San Angelo, TX Phone: Phone: x 3326 Fax: Fax: [email protected] Available by appointment only Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 40

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57 Appendix D VA Form Request for Change of Program or Place of Training The VA Form is the form to be completed by all veterans who have used their VA education benefits at a college or university prior to Howard College. VA Form can be completed online by visiting If you choose to complete the hard-copy of the VA Form , it is strongly recommended you send the completed form to the Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator or School Certifying Official for the appropriate campus. Howard College Big Spring Howard College San Angelo Student Success Center Buzz Refugio, Dean of Student Services 1001 Birdwell Lane 3501 North US Highway 67 Big Spring, TX San Angelo, TX Phone: Phone: x 3326 Fax: Fax: [email protected] Available by appointment only Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 41

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62 Appendix E VA Form Dependent s Request for Change of Program or Place of Training The VA Form is the form to be completed by all dependents utilizing education benefits as transferred by the veteran. VA Form can be completed online by visiting If you choose to complete the hard-copy of the VA Form , it is strongly recommended you send the completed form to the Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator or School Certifying Official for the appropriate campus. Howard College Big Spring Howard College San Angelo Student Success Center Buzz Refugio, Dean of Student Services 1001 Birdwell Lane 3501 North US Highway 67 Big Spring, TX San Angelo, TX Phone: Phone: x 3326 Fax: Fax: [email protected] Available by appointment only Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 42

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67 Appendix F VA Form Direct Deposit Enrollment VA Form is for use by the individual who is utilizing education benefits and wishing to have payments deposited directly into their bank account rather than receiving payments via mail. You can complete the form and submit it to the VA directly or you can call the toll free number on the form. You may also submit the completed VA to the Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator or School Certifying Official for the appropriate campus. Howard College Big Spring Howard College San Angelo Student Success Center Buzz Refugio, Dean of Student Services 1001 Birdwell Lane 3501 North US Highway 67 Big Spring, TX San Angelo, TX Phone: Phone: x 3326 Fax: Fax: [email protected] Available by appointment only Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 43

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69 Appendix G Request for Certification of Enrollment Individuals utilizing any of the VA education benefits below must complete and submit a Request for Certification of Enrollment for each semester enrolled: Chapter 30 Montgomery GI Bill Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill Transfer of Entitlement Chapter 35 Dependent s Education Assistance Chapter 1606 Selected Reserve Chapter 1607 Reserve Educational Assistance Program Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 44

70 HOWARD COLLEGE REQUEST FOR CERTIFICATION OF ENROLLMENT (Please print clearly) Please enter a response for each item below. When you have completed the form, sign and date it, and submit it to the Veterans Education Benefits Office for your campus as noted below. This form must be completed for each semester in which you are enrolled in order to be certified with the VA. Failure to submit this form will cause a significant delay in processing your VA benefits for the semester. Today s Date: Social Security Number: Name: Address: Street City/State/Zip Phone Number: Your Veteran Benefits Program: Chapter 30 Montgomery GI Bill Chapter 33 Post 9/11 TOE for Veteran Dependents Chapter 35 Dependent s Education Assistance Chapter 31 Vocational Rehab Chapter 1606 Reservist Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill Chapter 1607 REAP Fall Spring Summer I Summer II Please enter the number of hours to be certified by Howard College (Facility Code ) Semester Year Number of Credit Hours By signing below, you agree to: 1. Notify the Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator and/or School Certifying Official if your class schedule changes due to courses being cancelled, dropped, or added. Failure to do so may result in a debt to the VA or Howard College that you will be responsible for. 2. Notify the Veterans Education Benefits Coordinator and/or School Certifying official if you change your major. Signature of Student Date Howard College Big Spring Howard College San Angelo Student Success Center Buzz Refugio, Dean of Student Services 1001 Birdwell Lane 3501 North US Highway 67 Big Spring, TX San Angelo, TX Phone: Phone: x 3326 Fax: Fax: [email protected] Available by appointment only

71 Appendix H Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application All individuals applying for exemption under the Hazlewood Act are strongly encouraged to visit to review all information including but not limited to eligibility and to complete an application. The completed application must be accompanied by the following documents: 1. Copy of the Texas Veteran s DD-214 (Member 4) 2. Copy of the Texas Veteran s current, non-expired Texas Driver License 3. Proof of marriage to Texas Veteran (applicable only to spouse) 4. Proof of dependency to Texas Veteran It will take 5-7 business days to process the application. Reference the checklist on Page 26. Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 45

72 Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application and Supporting Documentation Instructions To apply for the Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption, you must submit the following documents to your institution: 1. The Hazlewood Exemption Application (completed and signed). Report of Separation or Discharge, DD Form 214 (and DD Form 215 if the DD Form 214 has been amended) To verify the veteran s place of entry, home of record at the time of entry, character of service, length of service, and dates of service. The copy you provide to your institution must be legible and contain the information listed above. A DD Form 214 may be obtained from the National Archives: - Phone: [email protected] If the veteran was discharged prior to January 1, 1950 previously used separation documents may be used. If the veteran s DD Form 214 was destroyed in the National Archives fire in 1973 or is otherwise unavailable, then the following documents may be used: NA Form 1038, Certification of Military Service Documentation from the National Archives that the veteran s NA Form 1038 was sent in lieu of the DD Form 214 due to the DD Form 214 not being on file Documentation that veteran met the requirements of Subchapter B, Texas Education Code 54 for resident tuition on the date of entry into active duty indicated on the DD Form Certificate of Eligibility for federal GI Bill benefits To verify eligibility for the veteran s, or dependent s federal education benefits. Certificates of eligibility may be obtained by completing an application on the Veterans Online Application (VONAPP) website at 3. If the veteran died while in service: Report of Casualty, Form DD Form 1300 To verify the veteran s place of entry, and that his/her death was service related. 4. If the veteran is deceased (not service connected) Death Certificate for deceased veteran for use in a Legacy transfer. 5. If the veteran is totally disabled or individually unemployable due to military service-related illness or injury: You must have a current disability ratings decision letter from the VA indicating that rating. 6. If you are not the veteran, Relationship Documentation Submit one or more of the following documents to verify your relationship to the eligible veteran. Birth Certificate, or Marriage Certificate, or Adoption Papers, or Recent Income Tax Return 7. Veterans must reside in the state of Texas during the term that the exemption will be used. This requirement does not apply to veterans who have reenlisted back into active duty, reside with a spouse who is on active duty, or who have continuously used the exemption since fall 2011) Children and spouse of eligible veterans must be classified as a Texas resident by their institution. 8. Hazlewood Online Database Registration To comply with the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) requirements, all applicants (veteran and dependents) must register into the Hazlewood online database to use the Hazlewood Exemption at TVC Form HAE-App, rev. 06/2014 Page 1

73 Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application For (term), (year) SUBMIT THIS APPLICATION TO YOUR COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY Each veteran, child, or spouse applying to receive an exemption through the Hazlewood Act, (Texas Education Code ) must complete and sign this application and provide the institution with the documentation required to verify eligibility as indicated in this packet. Submit this application and all supporting documentation to your institution s Hazlewood Exemption administrator. I am applying as: [ ] a veteran intending to use the Hazlewood Exemption [ ] a child intending to receive a Legacy transfer of benefits [ ] a child of a totally disabled, service-related deceased, KIA, or MIA veteran [ ] a spouse of a totally disabled, service-related deceased, KIA, or MIA veteran I am: [ ] an applicant applying for the first time; or [ ] a previous Hazlewood recipient: (complete the line below) Total prior hours used: Veteran, Legacy (transferred hrs), Spouse, Child (w/own hrs) Part A Veteran s Information Veteran s Name: Last Name First Name MI Veteran s SSN: Date of Birth: / / Veteran s Student ID # Address: Street City State Zip Code Phone Number: address: Part B Other User Information Relationship to veteran: [ ] Biological Child [ ] Step-child [ ] Adopted Child [ ] IRS Dependent [ ] Spouse Child s/spouse s Name: Last Name First Name MI Child s/spouse s SSN: Date of Birth: / / Child s/spouse s ID #: Address: Street City State Zip Code Phone Number: address: Part C Loan Verification To qualify for the Hazlewood Exemption the veteran, child, or spouse cannot be in default on a loan that is made or guaranteed by the state of Texas. State loans can be viewed at Does the veteran, child, or spouse have a loan through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board? [ ] Yes [ ] No If yes, is the loan in default status? [ ] Yes [ ] No TVC Form HAE-App, rev. 06/2014 Page 2

74 Part D Veteran, Children, and Spouse Certification and Consent The Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption entitles eligible persons to an exemption of tuition and specified fees of up to 150 semester credit hours at public institutions of higher education in Texas. Except for recipients who are the spouse or children of eligible veterans killed in action, missing in action, or whose death resulted from a service-related injury or illness; all other Hazlewood recipients must meet the same satisfactory academic progress policy as financial aid recipients at their respective institution. I grant permission to any institution I have enrolled in or intend to enroll in to release credit hour information pertaining to my enrollment to the Texas Veterans Commission and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, and further grant permission to the Commission and Board to share such information with any institution that I might attend. I certify that the information I have provided is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I further understand that if I have provided inaccurate, incomplete, or untrue information on this application, I may be required to reimburse the institution for tuition, fees, and penalties pertaining to the Hazlewood Exemption. Veteran s Signature: (Veteran s signature is not required if the eligible veteran is totally disabled, service-related deceased, MIA, or KIA.) Date: Child s/spouse s Signature: Date: Part E Legacy Certification and Consent The Texas Hazlewood Exemption allows eligible veterans or a designee to transfer all unused hours of the exemption, up to 150 semester credit hours, to a child who is 25 years old or younger on the first day of the term. Legacy recipients will receive an exemption for the number of degree certified hours associated with the specific degree or certificate program he or she is enrolled in consistent with the program length as defined in the school catalog as approved by the regional accreditation commission. Legacy recipients must meet financial aid satisfactory academic progress (SAP) requirements. Assigned hours may be revoked by the veteran or the designee. I (veteran) waive the right to all of the unused portion of my Hazlewood Exemption and grant permission to transfer those unused Hazlewood hours under the Texas Education Code, (k) (Legacy Act) to my eligible child, (child). I agree to release current term and historic credit hour information to the Texas Veterans Commission and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to determine the balance of my unused hours. I grant permission for the Commission and Board to share such data with any institution that my eligible child might attend. I hereby certify the information I have provided is true and correct. I understand that if I fail to provide accurate information, I may be required to reimburse the institution and penalties may be imposed. Veteran s Signature: Date: Veteran s Designee s Signature Date: * If the qualifying veteran is deceased: Veteran s Child s Signature: Date: TVC Form HAE-App, rev. 06/2014 Page 3

75 Appendix I Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application for Continued Enrollment All individuals utilizing Hazlewood Exemption are required to submit the Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application for Continued Enrollment for each semester they are registered and using the Hazlewood Exemption. This application is also available at Handbook for Students Utilizing Veterans Education Benefits [June 2014] 46

76 Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application For Continued Enrollment * For (term), (year) SUBMIT THIS APPLICATION TO YOUR COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY Student s Name: Last Name First Name MI Social Security Number: Student s school ID Number: Date of Birth / / Address: Street City State Zip Code Phone Number address To qualify for the Hazlewood Exemption the veteran, child, or spouse cannot be in default on a loan that is made or guaranteed by the state of Texas. State loans can be viewed at Does the veteran, child, or spouse have a loan through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board? [ ] Yes [ ] No If yes, is the loan in default status? [ ] Yes [ ] No I am applying for continuation of the exemption from payment of tuition and fees under Texas Education Code , (The Hazlewood Act). I understand that I may be entitled, under the law, to this exemption for up to 150 semester credit hours at Texas public institutions of higher education. For the purpose of accounting for the total number of hours for which I receive this exemption, I grant permission to any institution in which I have enrolled or will enroll to release credit hour information to the Texas Veterans Commission and grant permission for TVC to share such information with any institution that I might attend. I have previously used hours under the Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption. Signature: Date: * This form will not be used for initial application for the Hazlewood Exemption, but may be used for enrollment of students subsequent to initial enrollment at the school in which the student is currently and consistently enrolled. If a break in enrollment or change of school occurs then the complete Hazlewood Exemption application must be completed. TVC Form HAE-App-CE, rev. 06/2014