Getting started

Follow these steps to apply for admission at Virginia Commonwealth University and use your GI Bill benefits:

1. Apply to VCU

Complete the application that corresponds to you:

• Use the freshman application if you have never taken any college-level courses after high school, even if you may receive credit for military training.
• Use the transfer application if you have previously taken college-level courses, either online or in person.
• Use the graduate application to enroll in a master’s or doctoral program.

Pay attention to admission requirements, deadlines and details about submitting academic transcripts and test scores. Check your application status through VCU Admissions.

2. Request military transcripts

Once you’ve applied to VCU, request to have your military transcripts sent to electronically VCU to determine if you qualify for academic credits through military training.

• Army, Navy, Marines or Coast Guard: Send your Joint Services Transcript.
• Air Force: Submit your Air University transcript.

3. Apply for GI Bill benefits

To apply for education benefits through the GI Bill, submit the appropriate form to the Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA will determine if you’re eligible.

• If you have never received VA education benefits, activate and apply for your benefits online through vets.gov/education.  You will create your account with the VA and indicate which military benefit you are applying for.
• If you previously used military benefits at another institution, you do not need to re-submit the VONAPP. To transfer your benefits to VCU, complete the VA 22-1995 Change of Program Place or Training Form if you are an active duty servicemember or a veteran.
• Complete the VA 22-5495 Change of Program Place of Training Form if you are a military dependent or spouse who has received benefits under Ch. 33 or Ch. 35.

4. Meet with your academic advisor

Once you're admitted to VCU, you will need to register for an orientation session. Veterans are highly recommended to sign up for the July 14th orientation which has a program designed to best support veterans that are new students to VCU. At part of this orientation you will  meet with your academic adviser and register for courses. Your adviser will help you choose courses that meet GI Bill certification requirements.

5. Submit forms to VCU

After your advisor approves your courses for the upcoming semester and you have registered, request your benefits by logging into the Request for Certification portal and filling out the form. Please also submit copies of the forms below by mail, e-mail or in person to VCU Military Student Services so we can get your GI Bill benefits to you ASAP. The following documents comprise a complete package for new students. We will only accept complete packages.

• DD-214 if separated
• Current orders if on active duty
• Certificate of Eligibility

6. Apply for additional aid (optional)

Scholarships and other financial aid may be used in conjunction with your GI Bill benefits. Contact Military Student Services or Student Financial Services to discuss your eligibility.