Old GI Bill still pitched to recruits

[unhappycamper]

Old GI Bill still pitched to recruits
By Rick Maze - Staff writer
Posted : Wednesday Sep 10, 2008 7:08:48 EDT

Recruits are being advised to continue signing up for the old GI Bill while details are being worked out about what types of education are covered under the Post-9/11 GI Bill program that became law June 30.

Following this advice comes at a cost for recruits, but officials at the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs said it is worth the $1,200 contribution for recruits to ensure they have more options available for post-service education.

Signing up for the old Montgomery GI Bill, available since 1985, requires a contribution made in $100 monthly installments for the first year of service. The Post-9/11 GI Bill, signed into law in June but not fully effective until Aug. 1, 2009, is free.

Defense Department guidance provided to the services suggests the Post-9/11 GI Bill is superior for most service members who will seek a traditional college education, however those who might want vocational training — including attending technical schools and participating in apprenticeship programs or on-the-job training — should enroll in the Montgomery GI Bill because those types of training may not be covered by the new program.

The Post-9/11 GI Bill will provide basic benefits that fully cover the cost of tuition and fees at the most expensive four-year public college or university in the state where the person is attending school, plus a monthly living expense based on local housing costs and a book allowance. The Montgomery GI Bill benefit is a flat rate — a maximum of $1,321 a month, with no housing or book allowances.


Rest of article at: http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2008/09/marine_gibill_090908w/%2e