If you’re using your Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) to go back to school, first of all—huge congrats. That’s a big step. And second—yes, the VA does help cover more than just tuition. You also get money for books and supplies, which is a huge relief when you see the price tag on some college textbooks these days.
But how much are we actually talking about in 2025? Let’s break it down in plain English.
So… how much do you get?
The VA offers up to $1,000 per academic year just for books and supplies. This is separate from your housing and tuition benefits.
Here’s how it works:
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You get $41.67 per credit hour, up to 24 credits in a year.
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So, if you’re taking a full load of classes (let’s say 12 credits per semester), you’ll likely get close to that full $1,000.
Example: Take 6 credits? That’s $250 for that term.
Taking 12 credits? Boom — $500 for that semester.
And heads up — this is a once-per-term payout. It usually hits your account early in the semester, so you can actually buy your books before you’re deep into class.
Is everyone guaranteed the full amount?
Not quite. How much you get depends on how much of the GI Bill benefit you’re eligible for. The VA calls this your “eligibility percentage.”
Here’s a quick example:
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100% eligibility = full $1,000 for the year
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70% eligibility = $700
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50% eligibility = $500
…you get the idea.
If you’re not sure what your percentage is, check your Certificate of Eligibility from the VA or talk to your school’s veterans office. They’ll help you sort it out.
Bonus: Trade schools and non-college programs
Not doing the traditional college thing? No problem.
If you’re in a vocational, technical, or non-degree program, you can still get help. The VA will give you up to $83 per month for books and supplies. It’s not a lump sum like the college benefit, but it adds up over time.
When will you actually see the money?
Usually, right around the start of the term—but it depends on how fast your school certifies your enrollment with the VA. If there’s a delay, it’s often on the school’s end, not the VA’s.
Pro tip: As soon as you enroll in classes, let your school’s VA rep know. The sooner they submit your info, the sooner you get your money.
Quick recap (aka the TL;DR version)
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You can get up to $1,000 per year for books and supplies.
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Paid per credit — $41.67 per credit, maxing out at 24 credits a year.
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Amount depends on your GI Bill eligibility percentage.
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Paid at the beginning of the term.
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Non-college programs? You get up to $83 per month instead.
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No separate application — it’s part of your GI Bill benefits.
College is expensive enough. This book stipend may not sound like a lot at first glance, but trust me — when that $300 biology textbook hits your cart, you’ll be glad it’s covered.
So if you’re using the Post-9/11 GI Bill in 2025, make sure you know what you’re entitled to, stay on top of your paperwork, and use every bit of your benefit. You earned it.
