Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to bring with me?

If you have never applied for Veterans Administration education benefits we need the following:

• DD 214 – Member 4 Copy
• Certificate of Eligibility (Post 9/11 GI Bill recipients)
• Documentation showing that you enlisted with a college fund bonus (if applicable)
• Documentation showing you contributed the additional $600.00 kicker (if applicable)

Contribution information may be noted on your DD 214.  If so, no other documentation is required. If not, please provide either a receipt or Leave And Earning Statements showing the additional contribution.

Veterans eligible under the old GI Bill Chapter 34 will need to supply the following:

• Marriage and divorce certificates
• Birth certificates for any dependents under the age of 18 and for those over 18 if they are attending school

How many units do I need to draw benefits at MiraCosta College?

Montgomery GI Bill Recipients (Chapters 30, 35, 1606 and 1607)

12+ units = full-time
9-11 ½ units = three-quarters time
6-8 ½ units = half-time

1-5 units = less than half-time(payment is tuition and fees only)

Post 9/11 GI Bill Recipients (Chapter 33)

Currently, the monthly basic housing allowance is paid by the VA based on 'rate of pursuit'.  The housing allowance is paid if the student’s rate of pursuit is more than 50%. Rate of pursuit determines whether a student receives or doesn’t receive the housing allowance. If pursuit is more than 50% (seven units or more) the student receives the housing allowance. If pursuit 50% or less (six units or less) the student doesn’t receive the housing allowance.

*Note: There are upcoming changes to the Post 9/11 GI Bill.  Please refer to www.gibill.va.gov for up-to-date information.

How much is my monthly benefit?

Montgomery GI Bill - (Chapter 30)
Rates effective Octoboer 1, 2010

Note: If you contributed the additional $600.00 (kicker) to the Montgomery GI Bill, add $150.00 to the full time amount, add $112.50 to the three-quarter time amount, and add $75.00 to the half-time amount.

Montgomery GI Bill - Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)

Rates effective October 1, 2010

Reserve Educational Assistance Program - REAP (Chapter 1607)

Rates effective October 1, 2010

Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program (DEA)
(Chapter 35)
Rates effective October 1, 2010

Visit www.gibill.va.gov for current rates.

What if I am on terminal leave and will be attending MiraCosta College?

We will certify you for the whole semester, however, for the period prior to your discharge we will notify the Veterans Administration of your tuition and fees (as required by the Veterans Administration). Once you have been officially separated from the service and provide a DD-214, the normal amount of benefit will begin.

How does the Veterans Administration know what I am doing?

The personnel in the MiraCosta College Veterans Services Office will keep the Veterans Administration apprised of your status. However, it is imperative that you notify our office of any changes in your enrollment status, address, major, objective etc. in a timely manner. You may do so by stopping by the office on the Oceanside Campus, contacting us by telephone 760.757.2121 x6285, or by e-mail at vets@miracosta.edu.

Does it matter what courses I take?

Yes. In order to maintain the benefits, you MUST be in courses that are directly related to your objective or degree. It is of vital importance that you work closely with an academic counselor and follow an education plan.

How do I receive my benefit checks?

Chapters 33 and 35 benefit recipients receive a hard copy check at the home address or post office box.  All other chapters will receive monies via direct deposit.  If a bank account is not available the VA will send a check to your home address or post office box.

What happens if I fail a class?

You will be contacted by mail to determine whether your “F” is due to a lack of attendance or the inability to complete the coursework up to passing standards. If the “F” was given for attendance reasons, you will be requested to notify the MiraCosta College Veterans Services Office personnel of your last date of attendance which will be reported to the Veterans Administration. This may result in an over-payment. Students are urged to take advantage of tutorial assistance as soon as academic difficulties begin.

Am I eligible for Financial Aid?

You will need to check with the MiraCosta College Financial Aid Office.

Do I need to do anything if I am continuing from the previous semester?

YES! If you know you will be attending the next semester, you must come into the MiraCosta College Veterans Services Office to complete the 'Letter of Intent' (LOI). The LOI must be filled out EACH semester AFTER enrolling in your courses if you plan to utilize your benefits.

Post 9/11 GI Bill recipients:  To avoid being dropped from your classes; you must complete the 'Letter of Intent' within 24 hours of enrolling in classes.