The student must obtain a VA Form 28-1900 (Disabled Veterans Application for Vocational Rehabilitation) from the SIUC Veterans Certifying Official to apply for Chapter 31 benefits. A copy of this form may also be downloaded from the following VA web site: www.va.gov/vaforms. Completed applications should be sent to either the SIUC Veterans Certifying Official or the SIUC Vocational Rehab Specialist or to: Department of Veterans' Affairs, P.O. Box 836, Chicago, IL 63166-6830.

The veteran must have a service-connected disability of at least 20 percent to apply. The service-connected disability can be from disease or injury.

The Department of Veterans Affairs reviews the applications and makes the selection based on their guidelines.

Congress determines the monthly amount of the award. The veteran must work with a VA Vocational Education Specialist to determine how many months of benefits and what programs the veteran can take. There is additional money each month if the student is married or has children living in their home. The student can receive benefits for half-time to full-time enrollment.

The application process can take several months before the student is approved. Once approved, the student will be paid each month for the previous month's attendance.

Students receiving Chapter 31 benefits will also have all of their tuition, fees, books, and approved supplies paid by the VA.