Navigating the world of VA education benefits can feel a little overwhelming at first, but if you’re a veteran or active-duty service member eyeing a return to school, Chapter 30 of the Montgomery GI Bill – Active Duty (MGIB-AD) could be your ticket.
Whether you’re going full throttle with full-time classes or easing into academics with part-time study, understanding how much you’re eligible to receive is key to planning your next chapter—especially if you’re enrolling at 1/4-time or less.
Let’s break it all down in simple terms so you can make the most of your benefits.
What Is Chapter 30 (MGIB-AD)?
The Montgomery GI Bill – Active Duty, also called Chapter 30, provides monthly education payments to eligible service members and veterans who served at least two years of active duty. Unlike some other VA programs, Chapter 30 benefits come as a flat monthly payment—not tied directly to your actual tuition costs (except for lower enrollment levels).
You can use this benefit for a variety of programs, including:
- College or university degrees
- Non-college degree programs
- Vocational and technical training
- On-the-job training and apprenticeships
- Licensing and certification tests
How Long Do the Benefits Last?
The program generally covers up to 36 months of education benefits. That’s equivalent to four standard academic years if you’re attending school full-time.
What’s the Full-Time Payment Rate in 2025?
If you’re going to school full-time, the VA pays $2,438 per full month. But let’s face it—life gets busy, and not everyone can attend school full-time. So what happens if you’re enrolled at 1/4-time or even less?
How Much Can You Receive for 1/4-Time Enrollment or Less?
If you’re attending school at 1/4-time or less, your benefit rate drops significantly, but you’re still eligible for support. In 2025, you can receive $609.50 per full month, or the actual cost of tuition and fees, whichever is less.
Here’s the catch: If your tuition and fees are lower than the monthly rate, the VA will pay a lump sum at the beginning of each term. That way, you don’t have to wait for monthly checks to trickle in.
Here’s an Example:
- You’re enrolled in a 90-day (three-month) program at 1/4-time.
- Standard monthly rate: $609.50
- Over three months: $609.50 x 3 = $1,828.50
- If your tuition and fees total $1,200, the VA pays $1,200 as a lump sum at the start of the term.
- If your tuition and fees are more than $1,828.50, you’ll just receive the $1,828.50 maximum.
How About On-the-Job Training and Apprenticeships?
Chapter 30 also supports veterans and service members in apprenticeship or on-the-job training programs, but the payment structure works a little differently here. Instead of fixed rates, your payments decrease over time as you gain more experience in the program.
Here’s what that looks like:
| Timeframe | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| Months 1–6 | $1,828.50 |
| Months 7–12 | $1,340.90 |
| After Month 12 | $853.30 |
The idea is that as your income increases through training, your VA benefit gradually phases down. Still, it’s a solid supplement during the early stages of your apprenticeship.
What If You’re Not Sure Where to Start?
If all these numbers feel like a lot, you’re not alone. Choosing the right program, figuring out your enrollment level, and calculating your benefit amount can be confusing. But being informed is your best tool.
Before enrolling, consider talking to a VA education counselor or reaching out to your school’s veteran services office. They can walk you through your options and help you maximize your benefits.
Final Thoughts
The Montgomery GI Bill – Active Duty (Chapter 30) is one of the most flexible and valuable benefits available to veterans pursuing education or job training. Whether you’re diving into a full-time degree or dipping your toes in with 1/4-time classes, there’s money on the table to help you move forward.
So don’t let those benefits go unused—your next opportunity might just start with a single class.
