Reimbursement for licensing and certification tests that have been specifically approved for the GI Bill is provided by the VA. VA can pay only for the cost of the tests, not any other fees connected with obtaining a license or certification. The following is a summary of the GI Bill License and Certification Program.
Overview of Licensing & Certification Reimbursement
In today's business and federal workforce, having a license or certification can open doors for you. A license is required for most professions, and for jobs that are subject to state or other government regulations. Certification is voluntary, but frequently sought after. That's because getting a certification can help you get, keep, or advance in a job.
In jobs from mechanics and installers to medical technicians to therapists to computer network engineers to web site developers, it's clear that certifications play a key role.
You can receive reimbursement of up to $2,000 per test but not more than the actual cost of the test. You can receive benefits to retake a test if you fail. The number of tests you can take is unlimited, except that you can't receive benefits to retake a test you passed.
Note: Your total months of entitlement to VA education benefits will be reduced each time you use your benefits for licensing and certification.
For the Post-9/11 GI Bill you will be charged one month of entitlement for every $2,200.96 you are reimbursed (increasing to $2,260.00 on Aug. 1, 2023).
For all other GI Bill programs, the your entitlement is reduced proportionate for the cost of the test compared to your full-time monthly rate.
Among the many types of licensing or certification programs you can use your GI Bill Benefits for are:
- Project Management Certification
- Pharmacy Technician Certification
- Real Estate Licensing
- Network Certification
Eligibility
You may receive this benefit if you're eligible for:
- The Post-9/11 GI Bill
- The Montgomery G.I. Bill - Active Duty (this benefit isn't available for the MGIB for reservists)
- Dependents' Educational Assistance
- The Fry Scholarship
How To File an Application
If you have never filed an application for education benefits, you need to apply online via the VA.GOV website.
After you apply for GI Bill benefits, or if you have already been determined eligible by the VA you should complete and submit the VA Form 22-0803 (Application for Reimbursement of Licensing and Certification Test).
You can find the approved tests on the VA's GI Bill website.
Keep Up With Your Education Benefits
Whether you need a guide on how to use your GI Bill, want to take advantage of tuition assistance and scholarships, or get the lowdown on education benefits available for your family, Military.com can help. Subscribe to Military.com to have education tips and benefits updates delivered directly to your inbox.
