Once veterans finished their service, it’s time to figure out what comes next. If you’re looking for a rewarding career with the potential to grow, barbering or cosmetology can be a good option. It doesn’t require a four-year degree, so you can be earning an income within a year or two.
If you’re eligible, you can pay for cosmetology school with the GI Bill. Even though the degree program isn’t a college degree, the GI Bill will fund all or some of your cosmetology or barber degrees.
Will The GI Bill Pay for Cosmetology School Fees? Does It Cover All Fees?
While many people think of the GI Bill as only covering four-year degrees at an academic college, it covers many vocational schools as well. You can definitely attend cosmetology or barber school with the GI Bill.
In many cases, the GI Bill will cover your entire tuition. the Post-9/11 bill will either cover the in-state tuition net costs or the national maximum, whichever is less. Basically, it will either pay your school’s entire tuition or as much as the national maximum will allow. You’ll receive your money once a month based on the number of hours you’re taking.
As long as you served over 36 months, your entire tuition will be covered. However, if you served less than 36 months, then only a percentage of your tuition will be paid, based on how long you were in service. You can check the Veterans’ Affairs site to see what percentage you’re eligible for.
Housing and Materials Allowances
The GI Bill also gives veterans a housing and materials allowance while you’re attending barber or cosmetology school. Your Monthly Housing Allowance is determined based on school location. It’s calculated the same as the Basic Housing Allowance (BAH) as an E-5 with dependents. You can enter your school here to see your exact MHA.
You’ll also receive a stipend for books and supplies. You get up to $1,000 per year.
Cost of Licensing
All states will require you to have a cosmetology license. The licensing requirements will differ by state. You can also specialize in certain areas, like nails or massage.
The licensing process usually requires a test. You’ll have to pay a fee to take the test. The GI Bill will cover this fee for you up to $2,000. If you don’t pass the test the first time around, the Bill will pay for you to re-take it.
How Can Veterans Apply for Benefits?
There are a few ways you can apply for GI Bill benefits. The easiest method is online, but you can also apply by mail, in person, or with help from a trained professional. Before completing your application, you’ll need your SSN, direct deposit information for your bank account, education and military history, and basic details about your intended school.
Once you have applied, it will usually take 30 days for everything to be processed.
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