The Yellow Ribbon Program can help eligible Post-9/11 GI Bill students pay tuition and fees that their base benefit does not cover. It can matter for a private school, graduate program, foreign institution, or a public program that charges out-of-state tuition.
Check the school as well as your benefit
VA says students generally must qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill at the 100% level. The school must participate, and the terms can vary by school and program. Ask the school whether your program is covered, how much the school contributes, and whether it has reached any limit on participating students.
Bring your eligibility paperwork
VA directs applicants to bring their Certificate of Eligibility to the school’s certifying official or appropriate campus office. Compare the school’s written estimate with the tuition and fees on your bill before making a deposit. The VA’s program FAQ explains which costs can qualify.
Source information reviewed Nov. 9, 2026.