Minnesota GI BILL® Benefits and Eligibility

The Minnesota GI Bill® program was enhanced in 2013 to provide postsecondary educational assistance to eligible Minnesota veterans, non-veterans who served in the military, and eligible spouses and children. Full-time undergraduate or graduate students may be eligible to receive up to $5,000 per academic year and $15,000 lifetime.

Eligibility Requirements
Must be a Minnesota student resident enrolled at a Minnesota institution, who meets these requirements:

• Veteran (as defined by MN statute 197.447) who is serving or has served honorably in any branch of the United States armed forces at any time, or;
• Non-Veteran who has served honorably for a total of five years or more cumulatively as a member of the Minnesota National Guard or any other active or reserve component of the United States armed forces, and any part of that service occurred on or after Sept. 11, 2001, or;
• Surviving spouse or children of a person who has served in the military at any time, and who has died or has a total and permanent disability as a direct result of that military service, only if the surviving spouse or child is eligible to receive federal education benefits under Chapter 33 as amended, or Chapter 35 as amended.

How to Apply
Apply online and submit  the completed form with DD214 to the regional coordinator. Students must reapply each year. Application for Fall semester opens February 1.

Veterans benefits and federal and state aid may impact the actual amount received. Students wishing to use the Minnesota GI Bill® must first complete a FAFSA. See the statute that defines the Minnesota GI Bill®.  

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website.