Good news for eligible dependents of veterans! The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has released the latest Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) rates for 2025. If you’re a spouse or child of a veteran and qualify under Chapter 35, this program can help cover your education and training costs.
The new rates apply from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025, and they vary based on the type of education or training you’re pursuing. Let’s break down the numbers so you can see exactly how much financial support you could receive.
How Much Money Can You Get?
The amount you receive depends on your enrollment status and whether you’re attending a college, vocational school, apprenticeship, or job training program.
College or University (Per Month)
- Full-time students: $1,536
- Three-quarter time: $1,214
- Half-time: $890
- Less than half-time (more than quarter-time): $890 (or actual tuition, whichever is lower)
- Quarter-time or less: $384 (or actual tuition, whichever is lower)
Trade & Vocational Schools (Per Month)
- Full-time: $1,536
- Three-quarter time: $1,214
- Half-time: $890
- Less than half-time (more than quarter-time): $890 (or actual tuition, whichever is lower)
- Quarter-time or less: $384 (or actual tuition, whichever is lower)
On-the-Job Training & Apprenticeships
- First 6 months: $975 per month
- 7 to 12 months: $733 per month
- 13 to 18 months: $481 per month
- After 19 months: $245 per month
Other Education Benefits
- Licensing & Certification Exams: The VA will reimburse up to $2,000 for test fees.
- National Tests (like SAT, LSAT, etc.): No limit on reimbursement!
- Correspondence Training (for spouses only): VA covers 55% of lesson costs.
- Special Restorative Training (for those with disabilities): Full-time students get $1,536 per month, with extra funds for tuition exceeding $405 per month.
What You Need to Know
Your payments are prorated if your school term doesn’t last a full month. If you only attend for part of the month, your payment will be adjusted accordingly.
Your enrollment status matters! If you’re enrolled less than full-time, you’ll receive lower monthly payments.
Tuition limits apply. If you’re attending school less than half-time, your payment will be either the standard rate or the actual cost of tuition, whichever is lower.
How to Apply & Get Help
If you haven’t applied for VA Chapter 35 benefits yet, now is the time! You can apply online through the VA website or call 888-442-4551 (TTY: 711) to speak with a representative. The VA is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. ET to answer any questions.
Stay informed and make sure you’re getting the full amount you qualify for! These benefits can make a huge difference in covering tuition, books, and other education-related expenses. Don’t leave money on the table—check your eligibility today!
