Readjusting to civilian life can pose many challenges for returning veterans — including deciding what to do next.

If you have served our country in the armed forces, the Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS) and the Department of Higher Education (DHE) provide information on many education resources that can help you take the next step.

Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) Program

Not sure where to begin? Find out if you qualify for the federal Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) program, which includes free mentoring, academic classes, and information sessions on college admission, financial aid, and more to help you get started.

Suffolk University and the University of Massachusetts Boston both offer a VUB program on campus. UMass Boston also provides satellite courses in Haverhill and Brockton and summer workshops at four community colleges.

Financial Aid for Veterans

If you’re ready to pursue higher education, DHE provides details on statewide financial assistance and federal financial benefits for veterans.

State programs include:

• A tuition waiver for Massachusetts resident veterans attending a state university or college
• A tuition and fees waiver for active members of the Massachusetts National Guard attending a state university or college
• The Veterans Workforce Investment Program, which provides funding for short-term job training

Federal benefits include:

• The GI Bill:
  • The Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) for Active Duty and Selected Reserves
  • The Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)
  • The Post-9/11 GI Bill
  • The Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP)
• Other military education and training benefits:
  • Federal Tuition Assistance (TA) for active members of the military, including the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard, taking courses taken at a public or private college, university, vocational, technical, or trade school in the Commonwealth
  • Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will determine your eligibility for federal benefits. Find out how to apply for VA benefits.

In addition to state or federal aid, you may also be eligible for a national scholarship based on your service. Check out the DVS list of national scholarships for veterans to learn more.

College Credit for Military Service

Did you know your military experience may qualify for college credit at a state school? Check out individual state college and university policies for academic credit based on military service to find out how your training, coursework, and other service experience can get you one step closer to a degree.

Veterans’ Representatives at State Colleges and Universities

Every state college and university has a designated veterans’ representative to help veterans in their pursuit of higher education. DVS provides a veterans’ representative contact list ― call or email your veterans’ representative to learn more about how your education benefits work and if there is any other support at your school of choice.

Whether you already plan to pursue a college degree or just want to explore your options, these resources can help.

Questions about veterans’ education benefits? Comment below or tweet us @MassGov.

Tags: department of veterans services, financial aid, financial aid for veterans, GI bill, veteran, veterans, veterans education, veterans programs, vets education, women veterans