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Chapter 35 VA Benefits

Department of Veterans Affairs

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance

(Chapter 35)

Northwest ISD is proud to support military families by ensuring eligible students can access Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This program provides financial assistance for college, career training, and other educational opportunities for dependents of qualifying veterans.

 

Who Qualifies?

Students may be eligible for Chapter 35 benefits if they are the child or spouse of a veteran who:

  • Has a service-connected permanent and total disability, or

  • Passed away due to a service-connected condition or while on active duty.

For full eligibility details, visit the VA’s official DEA benefits page.

 

How to Apply

First, go to the GI Bill website and complete the application for each eligible student. This is how you will get your Certificate of Eligibility. Each student must have their own certificate of eligibility. 

Eligible students must complete the VA Form 22-5490 (Application for Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance) online through the VA website.

Send a copy of your Benefit Letter/Certificate of Eligibility [SAMPLE LETTER] to Bobby Morris, NISD Director of CCMR, along with the veteran's full name and Social Security Number, so he can complete the certification process. Without these, we will be unable to complete the certification process. Mr. Morris will serve as your School Certifying Official throughout this process.

Please note that if you are uncomfortable sending your Social Security Number via email, Mr. Morris is happy to give you a call when he starts the verification process so you can provide that information to him verbally. The number will be shredded as soon as the verification is submitted. 

 

Chapter 35 Rates

To learn more about Chapter 35 rates for survivors and dependents. Click Here

 

Important Changes to the Program

Recent legislative updates have modified certain aspects of the DEA program:

  • High School Training Benefits Ending: Starting August 1, 2026, students will no longer be able to use DEA benefits for high school programs.

  • Expanded Eligibility for Dependents: As of August 1, 2023, the previous age limit (18-26) for dependent children has been removed, allowing eligible dependents to use their 36 months of benefits at any age.

The program remains active, but it's essential to stay informed about these changes. For the latest information, visit the VA’s DEA benefits page or contact your campus College and Career Facilitator or our Director of College and Career Readiness.