Yellow Ribbon Program

soldiers saluting

This program allows you to enter into an agreement with the VA to fund tuition expenses that exceed the highest public in-state undergraduate tuition rate.

 

Yellow Ribbon Program Overview

What is the Yellow Ribbon Program?
The Yellow Ribbon Program allows institutions to partner with the VA to cover tuition expenses that exceed the highest public in-state undergraduate tuition rate. Saint Mary’s College of California contributes to these expenses, and the VA matches the amount. The Yellow Ribbon grant supersedes all merit and need-based scholarships as well as the Cal Grant. Only individuals entitled to the maximum Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefit rate are eligible for Yellow Ribbon funding.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Service Requirement: You must have served at least 36 months of active duty after September 10, 2001, or been honorably discharged for a service-connected disability after serving 30 continuous days.
  • Dependent Eligibility: You are eligible as a dependent if you have received a Transfer of Entitlement under the Post-9/11 GI Bill® based on the service of a qualifying veteran.

Awarding Yellow Ribbon Grants:

  • Automatic Eligibility: If you meet the eligibility criteria, Yellow Ribbon benefits are awarded automatically.
  • First-Come, First-Served: Awards are granted on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Program Admission: You must be admitted to a qualifying program to receive funding.
  • Continued Eligibility: Recipients continue to receive the grant each year until degree completion or formal separation from the institution.
  • Award Limits for 2023-2024:
    • Undergraduate: Unlimited grants of up to $14,000.
    • Graduate Business: 6 grants of up to $5,000.
    • Graduate Education: 4 grants of up to $6,000.

Funding Details: Yellow Ribbon students are eligible for up to $28,937.09 each academic year (2024-25) from their Post-9/11 GI Bill® at Private Institutions of Higher Learning. Once exhausted, the Yellow Ribbon grant will be applied up to the maximum amount if necessary. Note that Yellow Ribbon funding is not available during the summer term.

Further Information:

For more information about VA education benefits, visit the official U.S. government website at VA Benefits.

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