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One of the lesser-known benefits of the GI Bill is that it covers the cost of licensing and certification exams. Whether you are pursuing a career in information technology, healthcare, real estate, commercial driving, project management, or dozens of other fields, the VA will reimburse you for the cost of approved professional tests. This benefit is available under both the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) and the Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30), as well as under VR&E (Chapter 31) in some cases.
The process works on a reimbursement basis. You pay for the test out of pocket, take the test, and then submit a claim to the VA for reimbursement. The VA will reimburse the cost of the test itself, including any registration fees associated with it. If you do not pass the test, the VA will still reimburse you for the first attempt. If you want to retake the test, the VA will cover additional attempts as well, though each attempt uses a portion of your entitlement. The reimbursement is processed as a charge against your GI Bill entitlement, but the amount charged is typically small relative to monthly entitlement.
The range of approved tests is broad. Some of the most commonly reimbursed certifications include: CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and other IT certifications; Cisco CCNA and CCNP; Amazon Web Services (AWS) certifications; Microsoft Azure and other Microsoft certifications; Project Management Professional (PMP); Commercial Driver License (CDL) tests; real estate salesperson and broker exams; FAA pilot certifications; nursing licensure exams (NCLEX); Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam; and many more. The VA maintains a list of approved tests that you can search through the WEAMS (Web Enabled Approval Management System) on VA.gov.
Before paying for any test, verify that it is on the VA approved list. Not all professional exams are approved, and the VA will not reimburse you for a test that is not on the list. If a test you need is not currently approved, the testing organization can apply to have it added. The approval process requires that the test be administered by an organization recognized at the national or state level, that it results in a credential that is widely recognized in the relevant industry, and that passing the test is a meaningful indicator of professional competence.
One of the most valuable aspects of this benefit is that it can be used alongside a degree program. If you are using your GI Bill to attend college, you can also get reimbursed for professional certifications you earn during or after your degree program. For example, an IT student could use the Post-9/11 GI Bill to cover tuition for a computer science degree while also getting reimbursed for AWS, CompTIA, or Cisco certifications earned along the way. This combination of a degree and industry certifications can significantly increase your marketability and earning potential.
To apply for reimbursement, submit VA Form 22-0803 (Application for Reimbursement of Licensing or Certification Test Fees). Include proof that you took the test (such as a score report or receipt) and documentation of the fees you paid. Submit the form to the VA regional processing office. Processing times vary, but reimbursement is typically issued within a few weeks of the VA receiving your complete application. Make sure to keep all receipts and documentation related to the test.
For veterans who have already exhausted their GI Bill entitlement, the licensing and certification reimbursement may still be available if you have remaining entitlement from a combination of programs (up to the 48-month combined cap under 38 USC 3695). Veterans using VR&E (Chapter 31) may be able to get certifications covered as part of their rehabilitation plan without it counting against GI Bill entitlement. Discuss certification goals with your VR&E counselor if you are enrolled in that program.
Using your GI Bill entitlement wisely means thinking strategically about which certifications will have the highest return on investment for your career. Research which certifications are most valued in your target industry, which ones lead to the highest salary increases, and which ones are prerequisites for the jobs you want. Many certifications also require continuing education to maintain, which is your responsibility after the initial test cost is covered. Planning your certification path alongside your degree program (if applicable) can help you enter the workforce with both academic credentials and industry-recognized certifications.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, medical, or VA claims advice. VA regulations, fee structures, and enforcement actions are subject to change. Always verify current requirements at VA.gov or consult with an accredited VSO, attorney, or claims agent before making decisions about your benefits.
Written by Scott, ClaimRecon