Tuition Assistance Top-Up Program

If your college tuition costs more than what’s covered by the Defense Department Tuition Assistance program, you may be able to receive more money to help pay for school. This funding is through the Department of Veterans Affairs Tuition Assistance Top-Up program.

Veterans and service members may be eligible for Tuition Assistance Top-Up if:

• They are approved for federal tuition assistance.
• They qualify for the Montgomery GI Bill® Active Duty or Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits.
• The cost of the course and fees is more than tuition assistance will cover.

This benefit helps service members:

• Achieve professional and personal self-development goals.
• Save money while pursuing their degrees.

To access the TA Top-Up benefit, you need to apply. Before applying, think carefully about your situation. Use of the TA Top-Up benefit will affect your GI Bill® benefits.

Talk with your education officer and use the GI Bill® Comparison Tool to help make your decision. If you plan to take courses after leaving the military, determine if your remaining GI Bill® benefits will cover your needs.

• Tuition Assistance Top-Up
• GI Bill® Comparison Tool
• Application for VA Benefits (VA Form 22-1990)