The Montgomery GI Bill – Two GI Bills with the Same Name – Part Two

We have discussed the MGIB-AD. Now, we are covering the Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR). Also known as Chapter 1606, this GI Bill is an education benefit program designed to support members of the Selected Reserve in pursuing higher education and training.

This program is a critical educational resource for those serving in the Reserves of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and the Army and Air National Guard. It provides financial assistance for education and training programs, helping Reservists and Guardsmen enhance their skills, qualifications, and career opportunities while at the same time paying them a monthly stipend (albeit small in comparison) to help pay their education expenses.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the MGIB-SR, reservists must meet several criteria:

1. Service Commitment:
   • Must have a six-year obligation to serve in the Selected Reserve after June 30, 1985.
   • Officers must agree to serve six years in addition to their current service obligation.
2. Completion of Initial Training:
   • Must have completed your initial active duty for training (IADT) satisfactorily.
3. Good Standing:
   • Must remain in good standing with your Selected Reserve unit.
4. Continuous Enrollment:
   • Maintain Selected Reserve status while using the benefits.
   • If discharged due to a disability that wasn’t your fault, you may still retain eligibility.

It’s essential to note that your branch of service determines eligibility for MGIB-SR, and they report your eligibility to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

What the MGIB-SR Covers

The MGIB-SR provides financial assistance for various education and training programs:

• These programs covered are paid at the full-time/part-time rates shown below under Benefits and Payment rates:
  • College degree and certificate programs
  • High-tech training
  • Non-college degree programs
  • Entrepreneurship training
  • Certain entrance examinations (e.g., SAT, GRE)
• Flight training – reimburses 60% of approved charges.
• Apprenticeship/on-the-job training. Your monthly payment decreases as you progress through your training:
  • Months 1-6: $360.75 per month
  • Months 7-12: $264.55 per month
  • After the first year: $168.35 per month
  • To receive the full amount, you must work at least 120 hours each month
  • As your pay goes down, the pay from your employer increases due to an increase in your skills
• Correspondence courses – pays 55% of the cost of completed lessons.

Benefits and Payment Rates

The payment rates for MGIB-SR are determined annually and depend on the type of training and enrollment status (full-time, half-time, etc.). As of the latest update:

• Full-Time Enrollment: A monthly stipend is provided for those attending school full-time. The 2024/2025 rate is $481.00 per month
• Part-Time Enrollment: Pro-rated benefits are available for those attending part-time or taking fewer credit hours. The 2024/2025 part-time rate is $360 for ¾ Time; $240 for ½ time; and $120.25 for less than ½ time.

It’s essential to verify the current payment rates through the VA website or your unit’s education office.

Duration of Benefits

You can generally use MGIB-SR benefits for up to 36 months of education and training. However, benefits end upon separation from the Selected Reserve unless you qualify for an extension due to mobilization or other specific circumstances.

Application Process

To apply for the MGIB-SR:

1. Verify Eligibility:
   Contact your unit’s education office to confirm your eligibility.
2. Submit VA Form 22-1990:
   Complete the “Application for VA Education Benefits” form. You can submit this online via the VA’s eBenefits portal.
3. Obtain a Notice of Basic Eligibility (NOBE):
   Your unit provides this form (DD Form 2384-1) to confirm your eligibility for the program.
4. Choose a Program:
   Select an eligible education or training program. Schools participating in the VA education programs will guide you through the certification process.
5. VA Certification:
   Once enrolled, your school or training facility must certify your enrollment to the VA.

Additional Considerations

• Kicker Bonuses:
  Some reservists may qualify for an additional “kicker” payment, which increases their monthly benefits. This is usually offered as an enlistment or reenlistment incentive.
• Some reservists who were authorized “kicker” payments waived their MGIB-SR entitlement to switch to the Post 9/11 GI Bill (PGIB) and receive their kicker payments under the PGIB. Under the recent Rudisill decision, veterans may get their MGIB-SR benefits restored, however, they will lose their kicker payments under the PGIB.
• Transition to Other Benefits:
  If you qualify for another VA education program, such as the PGIB, you may be able to use both GI Bills, but only one at a time, thus enabling you to leverage additional GI Bill benefits.
• Time-Sensitive:
  You must use your benefits within the period of your service contract. Unlike the MGIB-AD which has residual benefits after getting out, the unused benefits under the MGIB-SR expire upon leaving the Selected Reserve unless you qualify for certain extensions.

Key Differences Between the MGIB-AD and MGIB-SR

While there are many similarities between the two MGIBs, there are also many differences. The table below makes the comparison in six different areas:

Both Montgomery GI Bills remain a cornerstone of veteran education benefits, empowering service members to transition successfully into civilian life with marketable skills and qualifications. By understanding its eligibility requirements, benefits, and application process, veterans can maximize the program’s potential.

For more information or assistance, contact the VA directly or consult your local Veteran Service Office (VSO). Whether you’re aiming for a college degree, professional certification, or advanced training, both MGIB are valuable tools to help you achieve your goals.