University of Scranton Participates in Veterans Education Program

The University of Scranton is partnering with the federal government to help fund the cost of tuition for military veterans and eligible dependents by participating in the new federal Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program (Yellow Ribbon Program).

Through the recently approved Post-9/11 GI Bill, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) pays tuition expenses equal to the highest in-state undergraduate public college or university rate for eligible veterans. The Yellow Ribbon Program provides an opportunity for private universities to partner with the VA to help pay tuition costs that exceed the rate charged by the highest in-state undergraduate university. 

Participating universities can contribute up to 50% of the difference, and their contribution is matched by the VA for those eligible. The University of Scranton has chosen to contribute the maximum 50% funding. When matched by the VA, this contribution, plus the Post9-11/GI Bill, will fund the full cost of tuition at The University of Scranton. The advantage to veterans is that they can select from a wide range of participating private universities, as well as public universities, to pursue undergraduate and graduate studies.

 “It is an honor and privilege to serve those who have served our country by providing the opportunity for eligible veterans to attend The University of Scranton, tuition-free,” said University President Rev. Scott R. Pilarz, S.J. 

The Yellow Ribbon Program at Scranton is available beginning in the fall 2009 to veterans who are eligible for 100% of the GI educational benefit, and covers undergraduate or graduate tuition, plus some mandatory fees, for eligible full-time or part-time student veterans. 

Veterans should contact the VA to determine eligibility for veterans educational benefits, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program. Additional information, including contact numbers of regional VA offices, can be found on the VA Web site at www.gibill.va.gov.  

Veterans and their dependents who are eligible for veteran’s educational benefits and wishing to enter The University of Scranton must apply for and meet the admission standards of the Jesuit university.  For admissions information, contact the College of Graduate and Continuing Education at 570-941-7600.