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Benefits

If you’re worried about the transition to UC or about costs, we can help. Not only can you use your veterans’ benefits at UC, but we offer one of the most generous financial aid programs in the nation.

Education benefits

The GI Bill program provides financial assistance or education benefits for military service members pursuing education or training. 

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Education Services provides information about its education benefit programs and what you need to do if you’re claiming your VA benefits for the first time. (Eligibility for veteran’s educational benefits is determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), not by UC). 

Check out the VA’s Benefit Comparison Tool that can help determine which program is best for you. 

Depending on your situation, you may want to consider postponing the use of your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits if you decide to attend a community college before transferring to UC. This can help maximize your remaining benefits after you transfer to UC.

Receiving VA education benefits does not reduce your eligibility for scholarships or need-based financial aid at UC.  In order to be considered for federal, state and/or UC institutional aid, ALL veterans are encouraged to file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 2 of each year.

Learn more about your benefits and financial aid at UC »

Cal Vet fee exemption

The Cal Vet fee exemption (officially known as the College Tuition Fee Waiver for Veteran Dependents) waives systemwide tuition and fees ($12,804 in 2015-16) for students who are:

  • California residents (as determined by UC)
  • Enrolled in a degree program
  • Dependents or survivors of a disabled or deceased California veteran (as certified by the VA)

It does not cover campus-based fees, summer school fees, UC extension programs or courses, or self-supporting programs (check with your campus to see if you're enrolled in one of these programs).

Learn more about the program and how you can apply »