Post 9/11 GI Bill® and Yellow Ribbon Frequently Asked Questions

Financial Aid Types of Aid Scholarships

What are Yellow Ribbon benefits?

The Yellow Ribbon Program is a provision of the Post-9/11 GI Bill that can help students attend private schools at little or no cost to themselves. Normally, Post-9/11 GI Bill payments at private schools are limited to a national maximum amount by law. Although that amount changes every year, it seldom covers the full tuition and fees that private schools charge for enrollment.

Schools like Bethel University have entered into a voluntary agreement with the VA to cover a portion of, or all tuition costs that exceed the national maximum Post-9/11 GI Bill reimbursement. Once the maximum benefit amount of the Chapter 33 benefit is reached, Bethel will cover 50% of the remaining tuition and fees through the Yellow Ribbon Program. The VA will match this amount through the VA Yellow Ribbon Match Program.

How do I enroll for GI Bill benefits and a Yellow Ribbon award at Bethel University?

Students must first apply for the benefits with the VA. The VA will provide the student with a Certificate of Eligibility. Students should submit the Certificate of Eligibility to the Financial Aid Office to have benefits certified and receive a Yellow Ribbon award, if eligible. Bethel does not have a cap on the maximum number of Yellow Ribbon awards given per year.

May I receive other financial aid in addition to the GI Bill?

Students may apply for federal Title IV aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal grants, state grants, student loans, and parent loans are available to those who qualify, in addition to the GI Bill. Bethel may need to reduce institutionally controlled aid or other outside aid to eliminate an overaward. See Financial Aid Terms and Conditions for additional details.

How are the benefits paid? When do payments start?

The VA pays tuition and fee payments, including Yellow Ribbon, directly to Bethel University. The Housing Allowance and Book Stipend are paid directly to the student. Fall semester tuition and fee payments are generally received in October, and spring semester tuition and fee payments are generally received in February or March. Housing stipends usually begin in October and are paid monthly thereafter. Book stipends are divided in half (approximately $500 each) and are paid once per semester, typically at the same time as the first housing payment. However, please note the VA is frequently backlogged, and payments may begin late as a result.

Which charges do I pay on my bill?

Since the housing and book stipends are paid directly to the student, students are generally responsible for paying all charges on the Bethel bill other than the tuition charge, such as housing, meal plans, parking permits, etc. Bethel bills separately for the fall and spring semesters. The VA will also pay eligible fees, such as orientation fees, lab fees, etc.

When is my bill due?

For CAS students: Bills are due on August 25 for the fall semester and January 25 for the spring semester. Payment plans are also available.

For CAPS/GS students: Full payment is due at the start date of each course.

For Seminary students: Students can choose to pay in full at the beginning of each semester or enroll in a monthly payment plan.