A question we often receive is "why are there specific VA walk-in hours, and I can't come at any time the office is open?" Brookdale takes providing services to our Veterans seriously. We want to ensure when you stop by our office we are able to assist you with your needs, and provide you with the attention you deserve. Each week we offer a mix of morning, afternoon and evening hours. If the VA hours do not work for you, please feel free to call or email with your questions or to schedule an appointment. You may email: veteraninfo@brookdalecc.edu or call (732) 224-2095.
The VA Certifying Officials have general walk-in office hours, no appointment is needed. Students who need to submit paperwork, have questions, or require further information should visit during these hours. Information will not be accepted outside of these hours/appointment hours.
If you are using Chapter 31 (VA Vocational Rehabilitation) benefits and you are interested in picking up your bookslip please call ahead or email to ensure your bookslip is ready. Once confirmed, your bookslip will be available for pickup with photo ID during our office hours: Monday-Thursday 8:30am-7:00pm, Friday 8:30am-5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm.
Once your purchase has been completed at the Bookstore, please be sure to return a copy of your bookslip and store receipt to the VA Certifying Official within 2 business days of your purchase. This information is required by the Department of VA Vocational Rehabilitation. Failure to provide a receipt could result in charges being billed directly to you.
For specific questions regarding your GI Bill Educational Benefits, please call the GI Bill Hotline at: 1-888-GIBILL-1. Questions specific to your benefits, eligibility, expiration of benefits or payments should be directed to this phone number. Unfortunately, we do not have access to this information, and are unable to provide any information specific to your benefit allotment.
Information about all benefits, including those dependents may be eligible can be found here.
Information about Montgomery GI Bill pay rates can be found here.
Information about all VA benefits can be found on the US Department of Veteran's Affairs website at: http://www.va.gov.
If you are interested in information about Financial Aid at Brookdale Community College and how to apply, please visit: http://financialaid.brookdalecc.edu/. Students who receive VA Educational Benefits can apply for, and receive Financial Aid (if eligible). This does not affect a student's Montgomery GI Bill benefit. Students applying to use the National Guard Tuition Waiver are required to apply for Financial Aid each Academic Year and provide proof of their application.
GI Bill Chapter 33/Post-9/11 Update:
The new GI Bill has a variety of benefits associated with it that are new to the GI Bill. Direct payment for your education (ie. tuition and fees payment is made directly to Brookdale), a housing stipend and book stipend are all parts of the benefit. Before you choose to select this benefit, please do your research as your decision is irrevocable. A few things to consider are: Will I be going to school more than half-time? Do I plan on taking all of my courses online? What is the percentage of the bill for which I am eligible? Planning on going to school half-time or less, and/or taking all online courses will negatively effect the amount of the housing stipend you are eligible for. Additionally, you will want to know up-front what percentage of the new bill you are eligible for. The new GI Bill is not for everyone and you may, indeed, receive more money/benefits if you remain under one of the current GI Bill benefits. You should research your options using the tools the VA has made available through http://www.gibill.va.gov or by calling: 1-888-GI-BILL-1 and talking to a representative. It is important to find out what your current monthly payments are, and based on your eligibility what your pay out will be under the new GI Bill. Additionally, you should consider your options should you be close to exhausting your current GI Bill benefits, and if you are able to extend your benefits (after exhausting your benefits) through the new GI Bill. These are all questions to consider and ask when you contact the GI Bill hotline number (1-888-GI-BILL-1).
For important information about the changes to the GI Bill recently signed into law (Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2008), please visit: http://www.gibill.va.gov and follow the links to additional information. Students can sign up to receive additional information regarding updates through the GI Bill site. The VA has also prepared a letter that explains some of the benefits and eligiblity requirements for this new Montgomery GI Bill. Please visit: http://www.gibill.va.gov/documents/CH33_veteran_outreach_letter.pdf for more information.
Students should apply for the Post 9/11 GI Bill directly through the VA's online application. Students who are new to collecting Montgomery GI Bill benefits, or current MGIB recipients must complete this application if they plan to select the new Chapter 33 option. Please go to: http://www.gibill.va.gov/apply-for-benefits/application/ to complete this application online. Please follow the instructions you may receive regarding providing additional information to the VA (for example, DD-214 information). The VA began accepting these applications as of May 1, 2009. Be sure to make an educated decision about this benefit and when you plan to start utilizing it. Your classes will not be certified (ie. reported to the VA) without providing proof of your online application for this benefit, your Member 4-Copy of your DD-214 and our Pre-Certification Approval Form. Please follow up with the Certificate of Eligiblity for Chapter 33 once it is received to complete your file.
To find out the total housing stipend you will be eligible for, please go to: http://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/perdiem/bah.html. You should enter zip code: 07738 (the Brookdale Community College-Main Campus zip code) and select an E-5 rank. The E-5 rate with Dependents lists the housing allowance as of the date of lookup. As of January 2012 this allowance is: $1986.00 per month. Please note, registration in all online courses will effect your ability to collect the Housing Allowance. Students must be enrolled more than half-time (7 credits) in at least one "in residence" (in classroom) course credits to be eligible for the BAH benefit. Students enrolled less than full-time (less that 12 credits, at least 7 credits) will receive a percentage of the monthly BAH payment based on the number or credits they are taking as they are calculated as a percentage of full-time status.
At present, the books/supplies stipend is $1,000 per year (for those eligible for 100%). The amount of stipend per term will be based on the number of credits a student is enrolled in (up $1,000 annual maximum). Students who are eligible for 100% of the benefit receive $41.67 per credit for books/supply money. Students eligible for 40%-90% of the benefit will receive the appropriate percentage of this amount. Students will be responsible for paying for books/supplies up-front. The stipend will be included with your initial monthly payments.
The VA has created a preliminary table for maximum tuition rates per state. Please note, this is preliminary information and is subject to change. To see this table, please follow this link: http://www.gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/CH33/Tuition_and_fees.htm.
Military.com has also posted their interpretation of the new GI Bill and comparison to current Montgomery GI Bill benefits. Go to: http://www.military.com/money-for-school/gi-bill/new-gi-bill-overview for more information. Please note, Military.com is not associated with the Department of Veterans Affairs and this information is an interpretation made by Military.com of the new benefit.
Chapter 33 Frequenly Asked Questions:
Q: I receive the Post 9/11 GI Bill and I'm still waiting for my BAH payment. I registered in November, where's my money?
A: The VA always makes BAH payments starting the first week of the month following the month of enrollment. In the case of the Spring 2012 (15-week) term, you would start receiving payments the first week of February (Direct Deposit)/early second week of February (Check payments, allowing mail time).
Please keep in mind, this schedule of payments assumes a minimal backlog at the VA for processing enrollment. The later you register for courses (mid-late December/January) the more risk you have that you may not start receiving payments until March (with backpayment for January) because of processing times.
Q: I recently completed the Post 9/11 GI Bill Pre-Certification Form. Why do I need to tell you whether or not I have applied for Financial Aid?.
A: Effective August 1 some of the reporting requirements to the VA changed in terms of tuition and fees. At Brookdale (and all schools) we are now required to deduct any Financial Aid, Scholarships or Waivers that are applied to tuition and fees specifically. An example of Financial Aid that falls in to this category would be the TAG Grant, used specifically to be applied to Tuition Assistance (not to be confused with military Tuition Assistance or TA, this is Financial Aid).
For individuals that indicate they will be applying for or have applied for Financial Aid, your tuition and fees will initially be reported to the VA as $0.00 tuition and $0.00 fees and the number of credits for which you are enrolled will be reported to the VA to start your BAH and books and supplies stipend. After the add/drop period (end of September) we will submit the actual tuition and fees that are reportable to the VA. Please keep in mind, it is important for you to realize that if you traditionally receive a refund of PELL grants or students loans this may be delayed and you should plan accordingly. We are unable to release excess funds to you until your tuition and fees have been offset by payments made on your behalf by the GI Bill. We have developed this system to ensure you are not charged with overpayments by the VA and that your BAH/books/supplies money is not held up.
Q: I received my BAH for January and something doesn't add up. I didn't receive the full BAH. Is my payment wrong?
A: No, when it comes to BAH, the $2151.00 a month (for returning students) or $1986.00 for new students/students who had more than a 6-month gap is based on attending a full month of classes (ie. 31 days continuously). The VA does a calculated break down of the BAH per day allotment for each day you are in class. For the Spring 15-week term you would be paid for 13 days (semester began January 18, month ends January 31, 13 days total) and for the Spring 11-week term you would be paid for 13 days (semester begins February 15, month ends February 28, 13 days total).
Q: I have heard it can take 8-12 weeks for me to receive my benefits, is this true?
A: Yes. Currently the VA is experiencing a high volume of claims for the Spring semester. You should anticipate a processing time of approximately 8-12 weeks once your courses are reported by Brookdale to the VA. Currently, our office is certifying courses every other week. Students should budget accordingly and anticipate a delay in receiving their benefits if they did not register early. If you are collecting the Post 9/11 GI Bill, you are required to complete and submit the Pre-Certification Approval form before we submit your courses to the VA. This form can be found here.
Students should check their Brookdale Student Email periodically to ensure more follow up is not needed from them. We will communicate with you via email if further information is needed. A delayed response, or failure to respond, will result in a delay in your benefits being processed. Please go to: www.brookdalecc.edu and click on "MyBrookdale Portal" at the top of the page. If you are unsure of your login information, please follow the instructions listed for initial login informaiton.
Q: I have heard there will be some major changes to the GI Bill effective in August and October of this year. Is that true?
A: Yes. President Obama recently signed several changes into effect as of August and October. Some highlights of these changes include:
- As of August 1: Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) will no longer be paid based on a minimum pursuit of 51% (or more) of full-time credits. The old 7 credit rule that most students have been able to pursue will no longer be applicable. Instead the VA will calculate your BAH based on whether or not you are full-time (12 or more credits in most 15-week terms) or less and use this percentage to calculate the percentage of BAH you will receive (taking your percentage of eligibility fo this benefit into account).
For example, you are eligible for 50% of the Post 9/11 GI Bill. You decide to take 12 credits during the semester. As a full-time student, that puts your credits at a 100% full-time pursuit, and you will receive 50% of the BAH payment.
**Warning: A little more complicated!** Another example would be if you are taking 9 credits, or 3/4 time based on VA standards. According to the most recent information published (February 2011), the VA will calculate that you are eligible for 80% of full-time status (they will round your rate of pursuit to the nearest 10%). In this case, you will be eligible for 50% (your actual eligibility for the benefit) of an 80% rate of pursuit.
- As of August 1: Students using any GI Bill program will no longer receive break pay or interval pay in between terms. Students will be paid based on actual term start and end dates.
- As of August 1: Students eligible for VA Vocational Rehabilitation and the Post 9/11 GI Bill may opt to receive the monthly BAH payment instead of the set rate of VA Vocational Rehabilitation subsistence allowance.
- As of October 1: Students enrolled in distance education (online courses) only will be eligible for a housing allowance paid at 50% of the current national rate (of course your eligibility and number of credits is also used to calculate what you will receive). If you are eligible for 100% of the Post 9/11 GI Bill and go to school full-time this would make you eligible for $673.50 per month (as of January 1, 2011).
Q: I have served 4 years in the US Army (Active Duty) from September 1, 1998-October 1, 2002. Will I get 100% of the Post 9/11 GI Bill?
A: No. The Post 9/11 GI Bill specifically calculates your Active Duty time on September 11, 2001 and after. In this example, you would have approximately 12.5 months of eligibility which would make you eligible for 60% of this benefit.
Q: When can I apply for the Post 9/11 GI Bill?
A: You were able to apply for the new GI Bill as of May 1, 2009. The VA is accepting paper (postal mail) and VONAPP (online) applications for this benefit. It is recommended that you apply online (VONAPP) as this can save 2-3 weeks of application processing time and allows you to have a confirmation of your application submission. To apply online, please go to: http://www.gibill.va.gov/apply-for-benefits/application/. To use your benefits at Brookdale you must apply online. Paper applications mailed to the VA will not be accepted.
Q: When does the Post 9/11 GI Bill become effective?
A: The Post 9/11 GI Bill went into effect as of August 1, 2009. You can select the date that you would like to start receiving this benefit (as long as it is after August 1, 2009).
Q: I am currently receiving Chapter 30 benefits. I have used 24 months of my 36 months of benefits. What should I do?
A: Under the new Chapter 33 GI Bill you will only be eligible for the remainder of your 36 months of benefits (ie. 12 months) should you choose to switch over the new Chapter 33 GI Bill as of this point. You do, however, have the option of exhausing your current GI Bill benefits through the entire 36 months and opting to switch to the new GI Bill (Chapter 33) for up to a 12 month extension after you have fully exhausted your current benefit. You should think about your educational plan (ie. do I plan on using benefits for longer than 36 months, will I transfer to a four-year school?), and what percentage of the new bill you are eligible for (benefit payments at 40% of eligibility are much different than those at 100% eligibility).
Q: What does the Post 9/11 GI Bill cover? Do I need to make payments for my tuition to Brookdale?
A: The Post 9/11 GI Bill includes payment for your tuition and fees directly to Brookdale, a monthly housing stipend and an annual book/supplies stipend (both stipends paid directly to you). In order to determine how much of these benefits you are eligible for, you will want to find out what percentage of eligibility you have (for example: an individual with at least 36 months of active duty after 9/11/01 will be eligible for 100%, an individual with 90 days to 6 months of active duty would be eligible for 40% of the benefit), Finally, the selection of online/distance education courses can effect your eligibility for the Housing Allowance, specifically. You should determine whether or not online courses are right for you. In order to receive the Housing Allowance, you must be enrolled at a "rate of pursuit" of 51% or more, and in at least 1 "in residence" (in classroom) course.
If you are eligible for 100% of the benefit, and a full-time student, for example, 100% of your tuition and fees will be paid to Brookdale. Additionally, you will receive 100% of the monthly Housing Allowance (as of January 2012, $1986.00 per month) and 100% of the $1,000 annual book stipend (paid per credit, per term, up to $1,000 annually).
Q: I did not contribute $1,200 to the GI Bill. Can I still get the Post-9/11 GI Bill?
A: Yes, if you have met the service requirements for the Post 9/11 GI Bill you would be eligible for the new GI Bill, even though you did not contribute $1200 to the GI Bill.
Q: I did pay into the $1,200 buy-in for the Montgomery GI Bill. Will I get any of this money back?
A: Any individual who paid the $1,200 buy-in for the MGIB and elects to use the Post 9/11 GI Bill will be refunded a proportional amount if, and after, all entitled benefits under the Post 9/11 GI Bill are used. Individuals who do not use all their entitlement under the Post 9/11 GI Bill will not receive a refund of contributions paid to the MGIB.
Q: I am eligible for the GI Bill and would like to transfer my benefits to my child and/or spouse. Can I apply for this now? How do I apply?
A: If you are a member of the Armed Forces on August 1, 2009, the Department of Defense (DoD) may offer you the opportunity to transfer benefits to your spouse or dependent children. Please go to: http://www.defenselink.mil/home/features/2009/0409_gibill/ for the most up-to-date information from the Department of Defense and http://www.gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/CH33/Transfer.htm to access the GI Bill portion of the VA website.
You will initially need to apply using the Department of Defense site to gain approval to transfer your benefits. Once this permission is received, you will need to apply directly through the VA website, using form 22-1990e. Please provide our office with a copy of the 22-1990e that you submit as we can place a special hold on the student's account to ensure they are not dropped for non-payment while this is processed. Once received, we will also start submitting enrollment information to the VA. Please follow up with the Certificate of Eligibility once you have received this information. We will use it to complete the student's file with our office. The Certificate of Eligibility typically takes approximately 12 weeks to be received once your application has been submitted to the VA.
Q: I am currently on Active Duty. Can I use the new Post 9/11 GI Bill?
A: Yes, you can use the Post 9/11 GI Bill on Active Duty provided you have completed at least 90 days of service (excluding basic entry level and skill training). Your tuition will be paid based on how long you have served. However, the tuition payment cannot exceed the amount not paid by military tuition assistance (TA) and/or the total amount of tuition and fees. You will not receive a housing allowance or the book and supplies stipend while on Active Duty.
Q: I have a service-connected disability. Should I use the Post 9/11 GI Bill, or Vocational Rehabilitation?
A: If you are eligible for both the Post 9/11 GI Bill and Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (Chapter 31), you should speak with your Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor to determine which benefit is most beneficial to your situation.
Q: Will I receive a retroactive payment under the Post 9/11 GI Bill for classes I have taken before August 1, 2009?
A: No. The post 9/11 GI Bill only covers classes taken on or after August 1, 2009.
Q: I received my Certificate of Eligibility after the term began and my courses were certified later. Will I receive "back pay" for the months in between the start of the semester and when the VA knew I was attending courses?
A: Yes. As is always the case, the VA will provide you "back pay" for time you have been enrolled, even if your course certification takes place after the term commences.
Q: I receive a National Guard Tuition Waiver. Will I receive a refund of the money given to Brookdale for my tuition?
A: No. The money received as payment from the Post 9/11 GI Bill will first be applied to your account and the waiver will be used to offset any additional tuition costs that may not have been covered through your GI Bill benefit. For more information on the Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits and how to apply, please click here.
Q: Will I receive the Basic Alliance for Housing if I am enrolled in all distance learning (ie. online, television) courses?
A: Before October 1, 2011, if you were enrolled in an entire schedule of distance education courses you would not receive the Housing Allowance portion of the GI Bill.
If at least one of your courses is considered "in residence" (ie. you are required to physically attend a classroom at Brookdale for the course), you are entitled to the Housing Allowance if you are taking enough credits to be considered at a 51% (or more) "rate of pursuit". Students must be considered more than half-time to be eligible for housing allowance benefits.
After October 1, 2011, if you choose to pursuit a courseload of all online coursework (minimum 7 credits) you will be eligible for up to 50% of the National Rate of BAH, currently at approximately $1300 (50% = $650.00). The VA will further determine your monthly payment based on number of credits pursued compared to the full-time rate (12 credits would be full-time) and your percentage of eligibility for the Post 9/11 GI Bill.
Q: I live at home with my parents, they don't make me pay rent. Will I have to show the VA that I pay rent?
A: No. The VA will not require you to show any proof of rent/mortgage payments. The money you receive is yours and you should look at this as an opportunity to save up for your future home.
Q: What is "rate of pursuit"? How is it calculated?
A: "Rate of pursuit" is the calculation the VA will be using specific to the new GI Bill to determine your Housing Allowance. "Rate of pursuit" calculates the total number of credits you are taking for the term divided by what Brookdale considers full time. This total is then made into a percentage. For the Spring 2011 and Summer 2011 semesters (and all terms prior), to be eligible for the Housing Allowance you must be enrolled in a "rate of pursuit" of at least 51% (or more). As of Fall 2011 payment will be based on status as a full-time student, 3/4 time student, half time, etc.
Example:
John Doe is enrolled in 9 credits for the Fall term. At Brookdale, full-time is considered 12 credits for the Fall term. John's rate of pursuit would be calculated as: 9/12 = 0.75 = 75%. His rate of pursuit is high enough to receive the Housing Allowance.
Jessica Smith is enrolled in 6 credits for the Fall term. At Brookdale, full-time is considered 12 credits for the Fall term. Jessica's rate of pursuit would be calculated as: 6/12 = 0.50 = 50%. Her rate of pursuit is not high enough to receive the Housing Allowance.
Q: I am eligible for 40% of the benefit. Do I have to pay for tuition and fees?
A: Yes, you would be required to pay 60% of the tuition and fees not covered by your GI Bill allowance. You have the option to pay this total in full, or create a Veteran Deferred Payment Plan with the VA Certifying Official. This Payment Plan allows you to spread your payments into 3 equal payments.
Q: Do I receive a bookslip to purchase my books at the Scroll and Pen Bookstore?
A: No. Students who receive the Post 9/11 GI Bill are required to make payments for books and supplies out-of-pocket and receive payment (per credit) directly from the Department of Veterans Affairs. This payment is typically included with your first monthly housing stipend for the semester.
Q: I am not sure which option is best for me. Who can I talk to?
A: The VA has provided a variety of resources for students to make the best decision about their options. Remember, the new GI Bill is not for everyone, and for some students the current GI Bill may provide them with more benefits. You should read the information posted on the GI Bill website at http://www.gibill.va.gov to first determine the percentage of the benefit you are eligible for. Not everyone is eligible for 100% of the benefits, and your Active Duty time on and after September 11, 2001 will determine your eligibility. Additionally, you should consider whether or not you plan on taking credits that total more than 1/2 time, and if you plan on taking Distance Education courses. Being enrolled at or less than half time, and taking all online courses, or 1/2 time (or less) "in residence" courses (can be combined with online courses) will make you ineligible for the housing stipend.
You should also consider whether or not you would like to exhaust your current GI Bill benefits (for those who have started to use benefits, especially under Chapter 30; the VEAP/REAP benefit is a different scenario), or if you want to switch to the new GI Bill immediately. For those who have started using their Chapter 30 benefits, you are only entitled to the remaining months of your benefit (ie. you have used 24 months of 36 months total eligibility, you can only use the new GI Bill for 12 months). You can, however, choose to exhaust your benefits under your current Chapter 30 benefit, and extend benefits for up to 12 additional months once you switch to the new GI Bill (and your Chapter 30 benefits are exhausted).
After reading the information provided on the GI Bill website, should you have more questions about your options, please contact the GI Bill Hotline at: 1-888-GI-BILL-1 for more information.
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Getting Certified (aka having your enrollment reported to the VA)
Please see the section titled "What you need" if you are using your educational benefits for the first time at Brookdale. Once you are a VA student, your courses are continuously certified while you are in your degree program. If you collect the Post 9/11 GI Bill you will be required to submit our Pre-Certification Approval Form each semester prior to your information being sent to the VA. We try to submit certifications every two weeks. Please be sure to select classes that count toward your degree as outlined in the course catalog. If you take a course that is not part of your regular degree program, or if your Student Development Specialist makes special arrangements for an alternate course to be part of your program, you will need to provide the VA Certifying Official with a letter from your Student Development Specialist (SDS) to verify this will count towards your program. If your SDS is unable to provide you with this letter, you will need to select an alternate course. Your course(s) will not be certified without this information. If we encounter an issue when trying to certify your courses we will send an email to your Brookdale student email address with an explanation of the information that is needed. Students should become familiar with, and proactively check their Brookdale email account.
Please be sure to notify the VA Certifying Official if you intend to change your major. You may need to complete additional paperwork. You will not be certified unless this paperwork is completed.
If you do not wish to have your courses certified for a term, please contact the VA Certifying Official prior to your registration.
Student who use their GI Bill benefits must make payment arrangements for their courses (Chapter 31-VA Voc Rehab and Chapter 33-Post 9/11 GI Bill are the only exceptions to this process). Students can sign up for the Veteran Delayed Payment Plan. This allows students to pay in three equal sums over a three month period. Please contact the VA Certifying Official to make arrangements to use this plan.
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While there are a variety of different kinds of VA Benefits student receive, in general students should have the following with them for their initial appointment (or during walk-in VA hour times) after they have registered for their courses:
Chapter 30/GI Bill (NOT Active Duty):
If you have never used your benefits for education: Complete the VA Form 22-1990 available online at: http://www.gibill.va.gov/apply-for-benefits/application/. Please print a copy of your completed application and submit this information to the VA Certifying Official.
If you have used your education benefits for education, have not attended Brookdale for 6 or more months, or have changed your major: Complete the VA Form 22-1995 available online at: http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/main.asp. Please print a copy of your completed application and submit this information to the VA Certifying Official.
Students must also have a copy of their DD-214, Member 4 indicating discharge status (ie. Honorable Discharge). If you do not have a copy of your DD-214 and need one, please visit: http://www.archives.gov/veterans/evetrecs/index.html
Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30) students are required to verify their attendance throughout the term. For more information on this, please visit the GI Bill website FAQ section by clicking here.
Student who use their GI Bill benefits must make payment arrangements for their courses. Students can sign up for the Veteran Delayed Payment Plan. This allows students to pay up to three equal sums over a three month period. Please contact the VA Certifying Official to make arrangements to use this plan.
Chapter 31/Vocational Rehabilitation:
Students receiving Chapter 31 benefits should contact their Vocational Rehabilitation counselor prior to enrolling in classes. Your counselor can provide you with information regarding the benefits you are entitled to, and will also provide Brookdale with your 28-1905 form indicating you are eligible to receive Chapter 31 benefits. The 28-1905 form will indicate tuition/fees and textbook/supplies benefits.
Chapter 33/Post 9/11 GI Bill:
UPDATE
Students who attend Brookdale and wish to use this benefit are required to submit their application directly through the VA's VONAPP system. We do not accept paper copies of applications that are mailed to the VA. Please go to: http://www.gibill.va.gov/apply-for-benefits/application/ to complete the online application. Please follow the VA's instructions when submitting the application if you are unsure of the responses you are supposed to provide. After you have completed your application please print a copy and provide this copy to Brookdale during our walk-in VA hours or by appointment. Additionally, you are required to submit the Member 4-Copy of your DD-214 listing an "Honorable Discharge." You will also be required each semester to complete the Pre-Certification Approval form found here prior to your information being submitted to the VA.
Once your application is processed by the VA you will receive a Certificate of Eligibility that outlines the percentage of the benefit for which you are eligible and the timeline in which you can use your benefit. Please provide a copy of the Certificate of Eligiblity to the VA Certifying Official once you receive it.
For additional information regarding this new bill, please go to: http://www.gibill.va.gov and follow links for the latest information.
Chapter 35/Survivors' and Dependents' Education Assistance:
Students receiving Chapter 35 benefits should complete the VA Form 22-5490 if they have not received Educational Benefits in the past. This form is available for online submission using VONAPP by going to: http://www.gibill.va.gov/apply-for-benefits/application/. After completing your form, please print a copy to submit to the VA Certifying Official.
Students eligible for Chapter 35 benefits who have used these benefits at a previous institution, who plan on changing their major/program of study, or have not been enrolled in courses at Brookdale for 6 months or more, should complete VA Form 22-5495. This form is available online by going to: http://www.gibill.va.gov/apply-for-benefits/application/. Please print a copy of your completed application to submit to the VA Certifying Official.
Student who use their GI Bill benefits must make payment arrangements for their courses. Students can sign up for the Veteran Delayed Payment Plan. This allows students to pay up to three equal sums over a three month period. Please contact the VA Certifying Official to make arrangements to use this plan.
MGIB Select Reserve---Chapter 1606:
If you have never used your benefits for education: Complete the VA Form 22-1990 available online at: http://www.gibill.va.gov/apply-for-benefits/application/. Please print a copy of your completed application and submit this information to the VA Certifying Official.
If you have used your education benefits for education, have not attended Brookdale for 6 or more months, or have changed your major: Complete the VA Form 22-1995 available online at: http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/main.asp. Please print a copy of your completed application and submit this information to the VA Certifying Official.
Students should also submit their Notice of Basic Eligibility (NOBE) if applicable.
Most 1606 students are required to verify their attendance throughout the term. For more information on this, please visit the GI Bill website FAQ section by clicking here.
Student who use their GI Bill benefits must make payment arrangements for their courses. Students can sign up for the Veteran Delayed Payment Plan. This allows students to pay up to three equal sums over a three month period. Please contact the VA Certifying Official to make arrangements to use this plan.
National Guard:
Students receiving benefits through the National Guard should first contact their Educational Service Officer to receive a Commander's Certification. This certification must state the term for the waiver, and must have a signature from your Educational Service Officer. Students receiving the National Guard Tuition Waiver are also required to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year. To file the FAFSA online, please visit: http://www.fafsa.ed.gov. Effective Summer 1 2010, the State of New Jersey now requires students who wish to use their National Guard Tuition Waiver to submit a completed Commander's Certification from their unit in addition to proof of application for Financial Aid and the Post 9/11 GI Bill (with effective date as of the first day of term for which the student is enrolling if they are eligible for the Post 9/11 GI Bill).
Students using the National Guard Tuition Waiver will first have any GI Bill funds from the Post 9/11 GI Bill applied to their tuition costs. After this reduction has been made any additional tuition charges would be waived using the National Guard waiver. After the waiver, Post 9/11 GI Bill and all Financial Aid funds (if applicable) have been applied, should a balance still exist, students will be responsible for fees (paid out-of-pocket payment by the student). For more information on the Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits and how to apply, please click here.
Students must meet with the VA Certifying Official during walk-in hours or by appointment to provide all required documents and obtain permission to register. Students should complete this process prior to registration. Students are required to complete the National Guard Tuition Waiver Registration Approval Form.
Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP)---Chapter 1607:
If you have never used your benefits for education: Complete the VA Form 22-1990 available online at: http://www.gibill.va.gov/apply-for-benefits/application/. Please print a copy of your completed application and submit this information to the VA Certifying Official.
If you have used your education benefits for education, have not attended Brookdale for 6 or more months, or have changed your major: Complete the VA Form 22-1995 available online at: http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/main.asp. Please print a copy of your completed application and submit this information to the VA Certifying Official.
If a student has been discharged they must provide a copy of their DD-214, Member 4 (sometimes called Copy 4 or Mark 4) indicating discharge status (ie. Honorable Discharge). If you do not have a copy of your DD-214 and need one, please visit: http://www.archives.gov/veterans/evetrecs/index.html
Most REAP students are now required to verify their attendance throughout the term. For more information on this, please visit the GI Bill website FAQ section by clicking here.
Student who use their GI Bill benefits must make payment arrangements for their courses. Students can sign up for the Veteran Delayed Payment Plan. This allows students to pay up to three equal sums over a three month period. Please contact the VA Certifying Official to make arrangements to use this plan.
Tuition Assistance (T.A.):
Students who are eligible for Tuition Assistance should contact their appropriate Educational Officer for their branch of service to receive the Tuition Assistance (T.A.) form. Once the student has the completed form, this information should be brought directly to the Cashier's Office located in the CAR building on the Lincroft Campus. This information should not be provided to the VA Certifying Official.
Once you have completed courses, if you need to have your grades verified, you should bring the grade/end of semester verification forms to the VA Certifying Official to be processed. Your forms cannot be emailed, but can be faxed to the phone number and contact name you provide to the office.
VRAP-Veterans Retraining Assistance Program:
Students who are eligible and meet criteria for the VRAP program (details regarding eligibility available at: http://gibill.va.gov/benefits/other_programs/vrap.html) will complete the 22-1990R form available on VONAPP at: http://www.gibill.va.gov/apply-for-benefits/application/. Please print a copy of your completed application and submit this information to the VA Certifying Official along with your Member 4 copy of your DD-214.
Student who use their VRAP benefits must make payment arrangements for their courses and purchase any needed books and supplies out-of-pocket. Students can sign up for the Veteran Delayed Payment Plan. This allows students to pay up to three equal sums over a three month period. Payments commence two weeks directly after the student registers for classes or on the deferred payment due date. Please contact the VA Certifying Official to make arrangements to use this plan.
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The following is a list of resources available outside of Brookdale Community College for various needs you may have. Please contact these offices directly through the numbers and/or websites listed.
Counseling
Counseling Hotline 1-866-838-7654
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255) Your call is free and confidential.
Wounded Warriors Project http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
National Center for PTSD http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/ncmain/help/
PTSD Guide for Military Personnel http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/ncmain/ncdocs/manuals/GuideforMilitary.pdf
PTSD Guide for Families of Military Personnel http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/ncmain/ncdocs/manuals/GuideforFamilies.pdf
Education
GI Bill/VA Education Services/Vocational Rehabilitation 1-888-GI-BILL-1 (888-442-4551) www.gibill.va.gov
POW-MIA Tuition Benefit Program (609) 530-7052
War Orphan Tuition Assistance (609) 530-7052
Veterans Tuition Credit Program (609) 530-7052
DOD Voluntary Educational Program (link to scholarships and student loan info) www.voled.doded.mil
Scholarships, grants and financial aid available to veterans and their dependents www.finaid.org/military
Employment
Department of Veterans Affairs-Career Search http://www.va.gov/jobs/career_search.asp
NJ Department of Labor, Veterans Services http://lwd.state.nj.us/labor/index.shtml
One Stop Career Center 1-877-USA-JOBS http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us/labor/wnjpin/findjob/onestop/services.html
Entrepreneurship/Business Start-Up
The Center for Veterans Enterprise http://www.vetbiz.gov/
Small Business Administration http://www.sba.gov/aboutsba/sbaprograms/ovbd/index.html
Health
VA Health Care Benefits (eligibility and other information) 1-877-222-8387
VA Medical Centers: Monmouth County (732) 532-4500 Ocean County (732) 206-8900
Health Eligibility Center 1-800-929-8387
Eyeglasses, Hearing Aids and Dental Insurance 1-877-TRI-CARE www.tricare.osd.mil/
Healthcare for Women www.va.gov/womenvet
VA Mammography Hotline 1-888-492-7844
Insurance
VA Life Insurance 1-800-669-8477
Service Members' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) 1-800-419-1473
CHAMPVA (Medical care for dependents and survivors of Veterans) 1-800-733-8387
NJ Services
NJ Department of Military and Veterans Affairs 1-866-VETS-NJ4U
Yellow Ribbon Committee on Returning Combat Veterans (609) 530-6949 www.state.nj.us/military/veterans/grant.html
PTSD
National Center for PTSD http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/ncmain/help/
PTSD Guide for Military Personnel http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/ncmain/ncdocs/manuals/GuideforMilitary.pdf
PTSD Guide for Families of Military Personnel http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/ncmain/ncdocs/manuals/GuideforFamilies.pdf
Returning Service Members
Montgomery GI Bill http://www.gibill.va.gov/
PTSD Guide for Military Personnel http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/ncmain/ncdocs/manuals/GuideforMilitary.pdf
VA FAQ Guide for Returning Service Members (variety of topics) http://www.oefoif.va.gov/faqs.asp
Transcripts/Military Education/DD-214 Records
Air Force Transcripts http://www.au.af.mil/au/ccaf/
Army/American Council on Education Registry Transcript Systems http://aarts.army.mil/
Coast Guard Transcript http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg1/cgi/active_duty/go_to_college/official_transcript.asp
Sailor/Marine Corps American Council on Education Registry Transcript https://www.navycollege.navy.mil/
Military Personnel Records and DD-214 http://www.archives.gov/veterans/evetrecs/index.html
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As members of the newly created Veterans Services Group the following individuals are committed to assisting you as a student with Veteran status at Brookdale Community College (each department title listed is a clickable link to more information):
Academic and Personal Counseling:
Dr. Steve Curto (732) 224-2318 scurto@brookdalecc.edu
Admissions/Registration and VA Educational Benefits:
VA Certifying Officials (732) 224-2095 veteraninfo@brookdalecc.edu
Center for Experiential Learning and Career Services:
Information and Assistance (732) 224-2792
Disability Services:
Ernest Oversen (732) 224-2729 eoversen@brookdalecc.edu
Financial Aid:
Information and Assistance (732) 224-2361 faoffice@brookdalecc.edu
New Jersey State Veterans Services:
Donald McNamara (732) 775-7009 Donald.McNamara@njdmava.state.nj.us
Non-Credit Courses/SOCAD/SOCNAV:
Jerry Russell (732) 224-2068 jrussell@brookdalecc.edu
Testing Services:
Nancy O'Shea (732) 224-2076 noshea@brookdalecc.edu
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New Students
GI Bill Benefits Checklist
GI Bill Getting Started Brochure
If you are a new student interested in attending Brookdale there are a few steps you need to take in order to register for classes. As a new student you are required to apply, take the Accuplacer exam, meet with a Student Development Specialist (academic counselor) and register for your courses.
The steps you need to take are:
1) Apply to Brookdale. You can apply in person at the Main Campus in Lincroft, or any one of our Higher Education Centers located throughout Monmouth County. If you would like to apply online, please go to: https://www.applyweb.com/apply/bccaa/ and follow the instructions to apply online. There is a one-time $25.00 application fee.
2) Take the Accuplacer Test. Once a student applies to the college they are required to take the Accuplacer Test. Don't worry---this isn't a pass/fail test! This test helps gauge your reading, writing and mathematics skills and helps your Student Development Specialist place you in appropriate courses. The Accuplacer test is done at your own pace, and you should expect to take approximately 3 hours to complete the exam. Once you apply to the college you will receive a "welcome letter" within approximately 2-3 weeks that will provide you with further information regarding testing. If you apply in person you will be provided with a testing pass at that time. No appointment is needed for testing at the Main Campus in Lincroft. If you would like to take your test at your local Higher Education Center please contact them for further information.
You may be able to be waived from taking this test if you have met certain criteria. Please go to: http://www.brookdalecc.edu/pages/247.asp to determine if you can be waived from taking the test.
For sample test questions, please go to: http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/accuplacer/preparation-sample.html.
The Testing Center and all of Brookdale's locations require valid photo ID for you to take the test.
3) Schedule an appointment with a Student Development Specialist/Advisor. After you take the test your next step will be to sit down with a Student Development Specialist (counselor) and determine what courses you will be taking for the term. They will speak to you about your academic interests, the results of your Accuplacer test, and any career or transfer interests you may have. They will assist you in planning your course schedule for the term, and will approve you to take classes for the term. After you have met with them you can register for your courses.
4) Register for classes. You are now ready to register for courses. You may do so at the Main Campus in Lincroft or any one of our local Higher Education Centers. Remember you will need to provide the VA Certifying Official with the required information once you register to start using your GI Bill benefits. If you are unsure of what you need, please go to: http://www.brookdalecc.edu/pages/257.asp#ImportantDocuments.
5) Complete and provide your completed GI Bill paperwork to the VA Certifying Officials during walk-in VA hours or by appointment.
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The Brookdale Community College Veteran's Club
The Club's mission is first and foremost to ensure that Veterans, Active Duty personnel, Reservists, and family members are receiving all of the benefits they have earned and to ensure a contact to readjustment counseling should they feel the need. Secondly, to provide a fellowship of like-minded individuals to create a network of students and successful alumni in order to provide professional and leadership development.
Club activities will include assisting all Veterans, information sessions about Veterans' benefits, support for disabled Veterans and public forums with guest speakers.
Meeting Announcement
This student group is open to our Veterans and their family members who are currently attending Brookdale. The next meeting will take place on Thursday, April 25 at 12:00noon, MAC 203. Lunch will be served. Please RSVP to: veteransclub@brookdalecc.edu if you are able to attend. A headcount is needed for food. Please attend to find out more and be a part of this exciting opportunity!
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The Center for World War II Studies and Conflict Resolution
The purpose of the Center for World War II Studies and Conflict Resolution is to educate today's generation about World War II and its significance by providing a range of programs and services to stimulate and foster the study of the political, social, and military aspects of the war and the its impact on world history. The ultimate goal of the Center is to utilize the lessons learned from the war to prevent the recurrence of global armed conflict in a world of sovereign states with divergent interests, wants and needs.
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Check back frequently for news about upcoming Veteran's events!
