Southwestern Adventist University proudly supports veterans, service members, and their families in pursuing their educational goals. If you are eligible for education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), our team is here to help you understand and access the support you deserve.

This page outlines the different types of VA education benefits you may be eligible to receive while attending SWAU. For step-by-step application instructions, visit our U.S. Military Veterans page in the Apply for Aid section.

Post-9/11 GI Bill® (Chapter 33)
Eligible veterans and dependents can receive:

• Full or partial tuition and fees
• A monthly housing allowance based on SWAU’s location
• An annual stipend for books and supplies (up to $1,000)

This is one of the most comprehensive VA benefits and can be used toward undergraduate or graduate study. Students must submit a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to begin receiving funds.

Yellow Ribbon Program
SWAU proudly participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which helps cover any remaining tuition and fees not covered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill®.

• Available to students who qualify for 100% Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits
• Matching contributions from SWAU and the VA
• Available on a first-come, first-served basis

Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E – Chapter 31)
This program supports eligible veterans with a service-connected disability by providing:

• Full tuition and fee coverage
• Books, supplies, and tutoring assistance
• Monthly subsistence allowance

Eligibility is determined by the VA, and applicants must work with a VA case manager to receive benefits.

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (Chapter 35)
This program offers education and training benefits to:

• Spouses and dependents of veterans who are permanently disabled due to a service-related condition or who died while on active duty
• Monthly financial support for educational expenses
• Can be used toward degrees, certificates, apprenticeships, and more

VA benefits are coordinated with other financial aid you may receive, including institutional scholarships and federal student aid. You are encouraged to complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for additional aid, such as grants and loans.

Chapter 35 and Yellow Ribbon benefits must be reported to the Office of Financial Aid, as they are considered educational resources that may affect your overall financial aid package.

Our VA Certifying Official and Financial Aid team are here to answer your questions and help you make the most of your benefits. We believe your service deserves the highest level of support—and we are honored to walk this educational journey with you.

Questions?
Contact us at admissions@swau.edu or visit our Contact Financial Aid page.