How Much Does The GI Bill Pay For Reserves? A Comprehensive Guide

The GI Bill is one of the most valuable benefits offered to members of the military. However, there are several different GI Bill programs available each with their own eligibility requirements and payment rates. For members of the Reserves and National Guard the main GI Bill option is the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve program (MGIB-SR).

What is the MGIB-SR?

The MGIB-SR provides education assistance to members of the Selected Reserve, including the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve and Coast Guard Reserve, as well as the Army National Guard and Air National Guard. It offers up to 36 months of education benefits to eligible recipients to cover the costs of approved training programs, colleges and universities.

Eligibility for the MGIB-SR

To qualify for MGIB-SR benefits, you must:

• Have a 6-year obligation to serve in the Selected Reserve
• Complete your initial active duty for training (IADT)
• Meet the requirement to be actively drilling in the Selected Reserve
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Remain in good standing while serving in an active Selected Reserve unit

The 6-year obligation does not have to be completed consecutively. However benefits generally expire 14 years from the date you become eligible. You must also continue to serve in the Selected Reserve to maintain eligibility.

How Much Does the MGIB-SR Pay?

The MGIB-SR pays a monthly stipend directly to the service member based on their enrollment status in an approved program.

For the 2023 academic year, the rates are:

• Full time: $481/month
• 3/4 time: $360/month
• 1/2 time: $240/month
• Less than 1/2 time: $120.25/month

These rates are adjusted annually on October 1st based on the cost of living increase.

The maximum number of months you can receive benefits is 36 months at the full time rate. This equates to a total maximum of $17,316 for 36 months of full time training.

What Training Programs are Covered?

The MGIB-SR can be used to cover the costs of a wide variety of approved training programs, including:

• College degree programs – covers tuition and fees at accredited colleges and universities leading to an associate, bachelor’s or graduate degree.

• Vocational/technical training – covers tuition and fees for non-degree vocational programs at vocational schools and technical institutes. This includes training in occupations like welding, truck driving, etc.

• Apprenticeship/on-the-job training – can be used for approved apprenticeship and on-the-job training programs.

• Flight training – covers flight training required for a pilot’s license or rating. Pre-flight training programs are also covered.

• Correspondence courses – covers tuition and fees for approved correspondence courses and distance learning programs.

• National testing programs – covers fees for tests like the SAT, GRE, GMAT, LSAT.

• Licensing and certification exams – covers testing fees for state and federal licensing and certification exams.

In addition to the monthly stipend, the MGIB-SR provides up to $83 per month for books and supplies if you are enrolled at least half time.

How to Apply

To start using your MGIB-SR benefits, you need to fully complete the application process:

• Apply online using the VONAPP website.
• Submit any required documentation.
• Ensure your Selected Reserve unit completes required verification paperwork and submits it.
• Receive your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA.
• Work with your school’s VA certifying official to certify your enrollment.

The entire application process can take 2-3 months, so it’s important to plan ahead and apply early. You can start applying up to 6 months before your class start date.

Combining with Federal Tuition Assistance

Members of the Reserves are often eligible for Federal Tuition Assistance (TA) which can cover up to $250 per semester credit hour. The MGIB-SR can be used in conjunction with TA to cover any remaining balances. However, you cannot “double dip” and have both programs pay for the same fees.

The MGIB-SR is a great benefit to help Reservists and Guardsmen cover the costs of college, vocational training, and other education programs. With up to $17,316 in total benefits available, it provides a substantial resource to advance your military career and education goals. Be sure to apply early, coordinate with your unit and school, and use TA and MGIB-SR together for maximum coverage.