Veteran Vocational Programs Overview

As a veteran, you can gain access to resources for transition assistance programs and trade schools through GI Bill benefits. Vocational training can help you access a new job market in as little as a few months, providing you with practical skills to grow your career.

You can also access veterans’ vocational rehabilitation to pursue vocational programs in fields such as carpentry, automotive mechanics, plumbing, cosmetology, and medical technology. Read on for career counseling and vocational training programs to start your next career.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

You can access various programs as a veteran, notably the GI Bill. If you have service-connected disabilities that limit your ability to work in traditional employment, you can also access the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program.

Abbreviated VR&E or Chapter 31, these benefits outline specific services available to eligible veterans and active-duty service members.

Your eligibility period for VR&E benefits begins from your date of separation from active duty or the date you were notified of a service-connected disability rating, whichever date is later.

Veterans’ benefits for vocational rehab include support for employment or self-employment and independent living. You’ll sign an agreement with the VA for a rehabilitation plan that may include:

You will typically receive GI Bill payments in the same manner as people enrolled in academic programs. You can use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to assess benefits across schools and programs and find a list of approved trade schools.

When choosing vocational schools for veterans, including trade schools that allow veterans to use VR&E benefits, you’ll want to consider additional support and resources as well as career preparation assistance and total costs. Key considerations include:

Accredited trade schools must meet educational standards to ensure you receive the training necessary to get the job you’re pursuing. It also means you can access federal financial aid and optimize your access to education benefits from the VA.

The GI Bill Comparison Tool lists accredited and VA-approved programs.

You may be able to find support services and dedicated spaces for veterans to meet at some trade schools. Other resources include veteran academic success centers and mental health services for veterans. Student Veterans of America is one of the most prominent organizations supporting veterans in higher education.

You can also find institutions with VA-trained school certifying officials (SCOs) to help you understand and apply for veteran education benefits. SCOs can answer your questions about GI Bill benefits and services available to veterans.

Some trade school programs offer online, evening, or weekend classes. This flexibility can be especially important for students with disabilities.

Additionally, many schools and programs offer course credit for military experience. Choosing a school that awards credit for military experience can help you save time and money on your education.

Look for programs that align with GI Bill benefits or VR&E programs. Some colleges partner with the VA to help ease the transition from military service to academic life through peer mentorship programs, veteran-only classes, career planning assistance, and scholarships for vets.

The VA partners with programs that provide veteran-focused training. For example, the VA Nursing Academic Partnership can help accelerate your clinical training through a joint effort between nursing schools and VA facilities.

Exploring your strengths, interests, and local opportunities can help you identify the best vocational career path. The main steps may include:

Affordablecollegesonline.org provides information about the GI Bill, including eligibility, benefits, and how to apply, but it’s important to note that we are not an official government agency, and the content we share is for informational purposes only and not legal advice.