Military Insider: Fall 2023 Edition
Welcome Back to Campus!
From the Desk of the Veterans Center Supervisor:
Greetings and blessings to each one of you as we welcome you to the new Fall semester at Liberty University!
As a member of the Office of Military Affairs, I am delighted to extend a heartfelt welcome to our military students who embody dedication both to their education and their service to our great nation. Your presence brings strength and diversity to our campus, and we are truly honored to have you among us.
As we enter into this season of new beginnings, I want to encourage you with a verse from Scripture that resonates with the challenges and triumphs you may encounter: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Know that you possess a unique strength within you, and with faith, perseverance, and the unwavering support of your Liberty University family, you can overcome any obstacle that comes your way.
At Liberty University, we are committed to providing you with an environment that nurtures growth, fosters learning, and encourages camaraderie. Whether you are returning to continue your studies or embarking on a new journey as a freshman, know that you have a community that stands beside you, and is ready to offer support, encouragement, and understanding.
As a resource in the Office of Military Affairs, I am here for each one of you. Should you have any questions, concerns, or simply need someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to reach out. My door is always open, and I am eager to assist you in any way I can. In the midst of your academic responsibilities and military duties, I urge you to take time for yourself as well. Prioritize self-care and seek moments of reflection and prayer. The Bible reminds us in Psalm 46:10 to, “Be still and know that I am God.” Embrace moments of stillness and draw strength from your faith.
Once again, welcome to the Fall semester at Liberty University, and may it be a season of fulfillment and blessings for each and every one of you.
With warm regards,
Caleb Berkland
Liberty in the News
Retired Major General Dondi Costin begins his role as Liberty University’s new President.
Liberty University entered an exciting new chapter in its 52-year history this month when it welcomed Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Dondi E. Costin, Ph.D., as its sixth president on July 1. Working alongside him is Jonathan Falwell, senior pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church, who has been serving as the university’s third chancellor since May 1. Read More.
Military students make special visit to WWI sites during history trip to Western Europe.
During a nine-day military history trip last month to Western Europe led by Department of History Online Dean Dr. Carey Roberts, a group of Liberty University students and one professor (most of them veterans) took an impromptu visit to two landmarks of American World War I history — Chateau-Thierry and Belleau Wood — to observe their own unique connections to that era in history. Read More
New Post-9/11 GI Bill® Annual Benefit Limits & Yellow Ribbon Program
The new Post 9/11 GI Bill cap for the 2023-24 academic year is now $27,120.05. See the VA website for Chapter 33 pay rate updates. Liberty University is also a Yellow Ribbon Program school, with an unlimited cap for all programs except School of Aeronautics programs, which are capped at $11,500 at the undergraduate and graduate level.
Use Your Student Onboarding Checklist
As a reminder, documents requested by the Military Affairs Office can be uploaded directly in your Student Checklist! This includes forms needed for Federal Tuition Assistance, GI Bill benefits and military verification. Save yourself some time by using the checklist instead of emailing or faxing your documents! Learn more about the Student Checklist.
Did you Know?
Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship
The Edith Nourse Rogers Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) Scholarship allows eligible Veterans using the Post 9/11 GI Bill or dependents using the Fry Scholarship to get additional benefits. This scholarship provides up to 9 months (or $30,000) of benefits for training in high-demand fields. Find out if you’re eligible and how to apply. Read More.
Virginia National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program updated to reimbursement model.
Previously, grants provided under the STAP were paid directly to schools at the start of each semester. Under the new model, students who participate in STAP will be reimbursed following successful completion of their courses at the end of the semester. The change is the next step in the Adjutant General of Virginia’s long-term goal of having the General Assembly approve free tuition at Virginia colleges and universities for Virginia National Guard Soldiers and Airmen. Read More.
GI Bill Test Reimbursements
The GI Bill covers more than just tuition. You can use part of your entitlement to cover the cost of certain tests you need to take to become a licensed or certified professional—or to apply for college or a training course. We only cover tests approved for the GI Bill under this benefit, so find out what’s approved before you take any tests. Read More.
General Scholarship Rule & VA Benefits
When a student is using the Post 9/11 GI Bill, scholarships or aid solely for tuition and fees must be subtracted from total cost of tuition and fees. The remaining tuition and fees are reported to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Scholarships that can be used for more than tuition and fees, such as books and supplies, housing, etc. are not to be subtracted from the calculation of tuition and fees unless the amount exceeds the amount of room and board. As a result, any adjustments to other scholarships or aid on a student’s account can result in an adjustment of the Post 9/11 GI Bill credit. Students will be notified via email if there is an adjustment in the GI Bill credit posted to their account at any point in the semester. For any questions regarding these changes, students can contact the Military Affairs Office directly via phone at (855) 355-4947 or at vabenefits@liberty.edu.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
