The Montgomery GI Bill for Active Duty & Selected Reserve

The Montgomery GI Bill provides monthly education benefits to eligible active-duty service members and members of the Selected Reserve. It helps cover the cost of college, technical training, licensing, certifications, and even flight training.

How the Montgomery GI Bill Works

The MGIB is divided into two versions:

• MGIB-Active Duty (MGIB-AD): For those who have served on active duty, usually for at least two years
• MGIB-Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR): For members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard Reserve, and the Army or Air National Guard 

Unlike the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Montgomery GI Bill provides monthly payments directly to the student. These can be used to pay tuition, fees, housing, or other education-related expenses.

The amount received depends on the length and type of service, the training program, enrollment status (full-time or part-time), and any additional kickers or buy-up contributions.

Who’s Eligible for the Montgomery GI Bill Works

MGIB-Active Duty (Chapter 30)

You may be eligible if:

• You entered active duty after June 30, 1985
• You had your military pay reduced by $100 per month for 12 months.
• You completed a minimum service obligation (typically 2–3 years)
• You received an honorable discharge.

MGIB-Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)

You may qualify if:

• You have a six-year obligation in the Selected Reserve signed after June 30, 1985
• You completed Initial Active Duty for Training (IADT)
• You remain in good standing with your reserve unit.

How to Apply

Now that you know if you’re eligible, this is how you’d apply:

1. Use the VA's online application portal to apply for education benefits
2. Submit your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to your school.
3. Contact your school’s veterans office to begin certification of your enrollment.
4. Set up direct deposit for your monthly payments through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Note: MGIB benefits do not cover tuition directly. You’ll receive a fixed monthly amount to use as needed.

What You Can Study with the MGIB

You can use the Montgomery GI Bill for the following programs:

• College degree programs (associate, bachelor’s)
• Non-college degree programs (technical or vocational training)
• Flight training
• Licensing and certification tests
• Entrepreneurship training
• Apprenticeships and on-the-job training (OJT)

All programs must be VA-approved.

Montgomery GI Bill Works FAQs

What’s the difference between the Montgomery GI Bill and the Post-9/11 GI Bill?
The MGIB provides monthly payments directly to the student, while the Post-9/11 GI Bill pays tuition directly to the school and offers a housing stipend.

Can I switch from the MGIB to the Post-9/11 GI Bill?
In some cases, yes. But switching is permanent. Consider your education plans before making the change.

Can I use both the MGIB-AD and MGIB-SR?
You can use both benefits if you qualify for each under different service periods, but not simultaneously.

Does MGIB cover housing or books?
It offers a monthly payment, which you can use for housing, books, or tuition. However, there are no separate housing or book stipends, unlike with the Post-9/11 GI Bill.