Veteran Aid & Benefits

Veterans qualify for many benefits and special services including:

Special scholarships that assist with cost-of-living expenses
- Fluor Cost of Living Expense Grant:
  This grant is need-based and is awarded to military veterans and active-duty service members to assist with the cost of attending school and living expenses. The College will award on an as-needed basis to qualified and selected applicants while funds are available.
- Bridge the Gap Veterans Scholarship:
  Applications for this scholarship are accepted November 1 through March 1 every year. Bridge the Gap provides military veteran students with funds to support their education goals while attending Aiken Technical College and is awarded each fall.
Federal Financial Aid to help with tuition, fees and books
ATC Foundation Scholarships

ATC Organizations and Resources

Veterans Affairs/Financial Aid Specialist
Career Services Support
Counseling and Disability Services
ATC Student Veterans Association
Student Success Center
Veterans' Lounge

Outside Organizations

Aiken County Veterans Affairs - 803-642-1545
Department of Veterans Affairs – 1-888-442-4551
Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation - 706- 650-5655
South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation - 803- 641-7630
Verification of Enrollment – 1-877-823-2378
Veteran’s Vocational Rehabilitation – 1-800-827-1000

VA Education Benefits Overview

Veterans and Active-Duty Service Members

Eligible for more than one benefit? Compare and calculate your benefits to see what benefit is right for you before applying.

Survivors and Dependents

State Education Program

Free Tuition for Certain War Veterans Children

A child of a wartime veteran may be eligible for this benefit. The program waives tuition only and does not cover books and fees. Eligibility and application information may be obtained here or for additional information, contact the South Carolina Division of Veterans’ Affairs VA Regional Office at (803) 647-2434.

Military Benefits

Military Tuition Assistance (TA)

Military Tuition Assistance is a benefit paid to eligible members of the Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, and Coast Guard. Students must speak with their Education Service Officer (ESO) or military counselor prior to enrolling. Tuition Assistance must be requested and approved at least 10 days prior to the first day of class each semester. The Tuition Assistance Authorization form must be submitted to the GoArmyEd Point of Contact (POC) on campus once approved. Information for your specific branch of service, what is covered, and how to apply can be obtained at the following websites below.

For additional information, please contact your nearest Military Education Services office or your commanding officer.

Military Spouse Advancement Account (MyCAA)

The Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) Program provides financial assistance to eligible military spouses who are pursuing a license, certification or associate degree in a portable career field and occupation. Visit: MyCAA or call 1-800-342-9647 for more information.

FAQs

Will I have to pay tuition and fees out of pocket if I have the G.I. Bill?

Yes. It is the student’s responsibility to pay tuition and fees at the time of registration with the exception of Post 9/11 (Chapter 33) and Vocational Rehabilitation (Chapter 31) recipients.

Post 9/11 recipients are responsible for any balance remaining not covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Do I have to purchase my books?

Yes. With the exception of Chapter 31 (Vocational Rehabilitation), all VA education programs including Post 9/11 recipients are responsible for purchasing books out of pocket. Post 9/11 book stipends are paid directly to the student. Chapter 31 recipient’s books are paid by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Is Aiken Technical College a Yellow-Ribbon Participant?

No.

Can I use my VA benefits to pay for Continuing Education courses?

The fiber optic technician, tower drone, and tower wireless technician programs are approved for VA benefits at this time.

Can I apply for Federal Grants and Student Loans?

Yes. Everyone is encouraged to apply for financial aid. Tuition and fees are due to the College prior to the release of benefits. Veterans and family members receiving benefits under the Montgomery G.I. Bill (CH 30), Dependents Educational Assistance (CH 35) and Montgomery G.I. Bill – Selected Reserves (CH 1606) are responsible for paying tuition and fees and should apply for financial aid. In many cases, you may be eligible for additional funds that can help cover costs outside of benefits.

Do I have to verify enrollment monthly with the VA?

Only Chapter 30, 33, 1606, and 1607 recipients must verify enrollment on the last day of each month with the VA by calling 1-877-823-2378 or online through Web Automated Verification of Enrollment (WAVE).

Chapter 35 (spouse or child) participants in a certificate or diploma program will receive a Student Verification of Enrollment Form 8979 from the VA monthly to verify enrollment.

Will I owe the VA if I withdraw from one or more of my classes?

Yes. A reduction in hours and enrollment status from full time to less-than full time, etc. will create an overpayment of benefits to you.

What should I do if there is a change in my enrollment?

You should notify the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Veterans Affairs/Financial Aid Specialist immediately. Prompt notification can prevent or reduce overpayments. If the VA does not receive prompt notification of changes in enrollment or termination of enrollment, you will have an overpayment with the VA.

What is the process of becoming a veteran student at Aiken Tech?

We'll walk you through the step-by-step enrollment process as a veteran.

Learn More

Apply for Aid Now

Submit a free application for financial aid.

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Aiken Technical College

2276 Jefferson Davis Hwy
Graniteville, SC 29829
803-593-9231

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Aiken Technical College

Veteran Aid & Benefits