Veterans Benefits

As a veteran, you are not dependent on us; we are dependent on you, and are here to serve you with the respect and dignity you deserve.

Veterans Affairs educational benefits are designed to provide eligible individuals with an opportunity for personal and professional growth.

Our admission counselors and veterans certifying officials can provide you with general information, and assist in getting the necessary paperwork for you to begin your benefits. The VA certifying official named by Saint Leo University acts as the institution's liaison with the VA and State approving agency.

If you have questions concerning your eligibility for Veteran’s Education Benefits, you may contact our Veteran’s Certifying Official, call the Veteran’s Administration Regional office at (888) 442-4551, or go online to www.gibill.va.gov.

Post 9/11 GI Bill

Veteran students eligible for full benefits under the new GI Bill can attend any of Saint Leo University's undergraduate locations, and their tuition and fees are covered 100%.

The Post 9/11 GI Bill is an updated version of the original bill from 1944. The Post 9/11 GI Bill was adopted to accommodate the increasing costs of education, and is available to eligible participants (veterans, service members and dependents) who have served after Sept. 10, 2001. The benefits of the Post 9/11 GI bill began Aug. 1, 2009.

Under the Post/911 GI Bill, students receive tuition and fees not to exceed the costs of attending their in–State public institution of higher education. They also receive a monthly housing allowance based upon the ZIP code of the school they are attending, and a yearly stipend to supplement the costs of books. Students attending online are not eligible for the housing allowance.

Active Duty Military

If you are an Active Duty military member and wish to establish your Veteran’s Education Benefit eligibility, prior to registration, you will need to complete the following:

  • Apply for admission to University Campus.
  • Submit official transcripts from each college/university you may have attended as part of the application package.
  • Submit documentation of military training and schools (DD-295, AARTS,or CCAF) as part of the application package. Documentation should be obtained from your military Education Service Office.

Veterans

If you are an eligible Veteran, prior to registration you must:

  • Apply for admission to University Campus.
  • Submit official transcripts from each college/university you may have attended as part of the application package.
  • Submit a copy of your DD-214 as part of your application process.
  • Make an appointment with our Veteran’s Certifying Official.
  • Other documentation may be required depending on what VA Education Benefit Chapter you are eligible for.

Veteran’s Education Benefits Tips

Transcripts & Military Paperwork

It is the student’s responsibility to see that transcripts and military paperwork are received by Saint Leo University in a timely manner. The VA allows you to register for two terms while your paperwork is being received and processed. If all paperwork has not been received and processed by the third semester, your VA education benefits may be withheld until Saint Leo University can evaluate transfer credit and military training/experience.

Change of Program or Place of Training

The VA will not accept certification for courses that are not in your current degree program. If you have used your Veteran’s education benefits at another college/university, you must complete a Change of Program or Place of Training form.

Questions?

Do not hesitate to call for assistance or to arrange an appointment with an admission counselor or Veteran’s Certifying Official. You may receive additional detailed information of Veteran’s Education Benefits by visiting www.gibill.va.gov.

Office of Student Financial Services
Phone: (352) 588-7403
Toll Free: (800) 240-7658
Fax: (866) 708-7770
Email: finaid@saintleo.edu

Download the VA Education Benefits Handbook »