VA Form 22-1990 (Application for VA Education Benefits) is how you apply for VA education programs — the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33), the Montgomery GI Bill (Active Duty and Selected Reserve), and related benefits.
What it covers
Depending on the program and your service, education benefits can help pay for:
- •Tuition and fees.
- •A monthly housing allowance (Post-9/11).
- •A books and supplies stipend.
Choose your program carefully
If you qualify for more than one program, the choice can be irrevocable — and the programs pay differently. It's worth understanding the trade-offs (or talking to a school certifying official or VA education counselor) before you submit.
Separate from disability compensation
Education benefits are a different system from disability compensation. Filing 22-1990 doesn't affect a disability claim, and a disability rating isn't required to use the GI Bill.
A related benefit to know
If a service-connected disability is holding you back from employment, Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31, VA Form 28-1900) may be a better fit than the GI Bill — it's counselor-driven and can also cover training and job placement.
Tip
Check your remaining entitlement and any delimiting dates before applying so you use the benefit that fits your goals.
VA forms mentioned in this guide
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This guide is educational information about the VA claims system — it is not legal or medical advice, and it does not predict or promise any claim outcome. Regulations and procedures change; always verify current requirements at VA.gov. VA Claim Commander is a self-service documentation tool, not a VSO, law firm, or VA-accredited representative.