Veteran Trade Schools

GI Bill® trade school guides

Plain-language answers on using the GI Bill for trade school, apprenticeships and on-the-job training. Every figure is cited to VA, the Department of Labor, FMCSA or EPA.

Which GI Bill is better for trade school: Post-9/11 vs Montgomery

A side-by-side comparison of the Post-9/11 and Montgomery GI Bill for trade school and apprenticeships, using VA's current published rates.

Does the GI Bill cover trade school?

Yes, for VA-approved non-college degree programs and apprenticeships. What VA pays, how housing allowance works, and how to check a program, with official sources.

Does the GI Bill cover welding school?

Certificate and diploma programs plus employer on-the-job training in welding and fabrication.

Does the GI Bill cover HVAC school?

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration training, from certificates to employer OJT.

Does the GI Bill cover electrician school or an electrical apprenticeship?

Electrical trade programs and apprenticeships, including a lineworker section.

Does the GI Bill cover barber or cosmetology school?

Barber and cosmetology school programs that prepare you for a state board license.

Does the GI Bill cover CDL truck driving school?

Commercial driver training programs approved for the GI Bill, plus carrier OJT.

GI Bill housing allowance (BAH/MHA) for trade school and apprenticeships

How the Post-9/11 GI Bill monthly housing allowance works for trade school and apprenticeships: rate basis, more-than-half-time rule, OJT step-downs and what Montgomery pays instead.

Printable handouts

Using the GI Bill for trade school: a checklist · Apprenticeship and OJT: GI Bill basics

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.