Veteran Students and GI Bill Recipients

Veterans, the UCSC Global Learning office would like to thank you for your service and congratulate you on continuing your pursuit of education. We support your global learning journey and are here to support you throughout the process. 

Using Your VA Benefits to Cover Global Learning Costs 

Many veterans are able to use their benefits to help fund their global learning experience. If you are interested in using your VA benefits to assist in the payment of a global learning program, you must plan ahead. You will need to work closely with UCSC Global Learning, the Office of the Registrar, and your UCSC Certifying Official to find a program that fits the requirements of the VA and your global learning goals.

Currently, the following programs meet the GI Bill benefit requirements:

Email vets_benefits@ucsc.edu to help you in determining what, if any, the VA can cover. You can also visit the Veterans Benefit Services website to access drop-in advising sessions.

If you are planning to use your Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits to assist in the payment of your overseas program, please plan ahead.

With questions specific to your VA benefits, email vets_benefits@ucsc.edu

For academic planning and general veteran support, contact the Veteran Office within STARS

Gilman McCain Scholarship

The Gilman-McCain Scholarship is offered through the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. It offers awards of $5,000 for child dependents of active duty service members to study or intern abroad. For more information and to apply, visit their website here.

FAQ: 

Q: Can I use my GI Bill education benefits while studying abroad or away? 

A: For GI Bill beneficiaries, you may be able to use your VA benefits. You should speak to your certifying official to ensure that the program you would like to participate in meets the GI Bill requirements for study abroad and away programs.Q: I am a dependent of a veteran and have the Cal Vet fee waiver. Can I use it to study abroad or away?

A: Please schedule an appointment with one of UCSC’s certifying officials to see if your Cal Vet fee waiver can be applied towards your chosen study abroad or away program.

Student Perspectives 

Additional Resources

Last modified: Jun 11, 2023