Veterans and Military-Connected Students
Ridgewater College is proud to support Veterans, current military members, National Guard and Reserve members, and their families as they pursue their education.
Whether you are using federal VA education benefits, the Minnesota GI Bill, military tuition assistance, or other military-connected education benefits, resources are available to help you understand your options and navigate the process.
Using VA Education Benefits at Ridgewater
Students planning to use federal VA education benefits should first apply for benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Benefits may include:
- Post-9/11 GI Bill® (Chapter 33)
- Montgomery GI Bill® (Chapter 30)
- Montgomery GI Bill® Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)
- Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (Chapter 35)
- Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E/Chapter 31)
- Other eligible VA education programs
Apply for or manage your VA education benefits:
After receiving your VA education benefit eligibility information and registering for classes, contact Ridgewater College’s School Certifying Official (SCO) to request certification of your enrollment.
Ridgewater School Certifying Official
Racheal Nonweiler
Financial Aid Advisor
VA Certifying Official
[email protected]
Students should notify the School Certifying Official promptly of any changes to their enrollment, including adding, dropping, or withdrawing from courses.
Monthly Enrollment Verification
Students receiving certain VA education benefits are required to verify their enrollment with VA each month.
Enrollment can be verified through VA.gov and, depending on the benefit, may also be available by text, email, phone, or Ask VA.
Verify Your Enrollment with VA
Minnesota Education Benefits
Minnesota Veterans, current military members, National Guard and Reserve members, and eligible spouses and children may also qualify for state education benefits.
Minnesota GI Bill
The Minnesota GI Bill provides financial assistance to eligible Minnesota Veterans, currently serving military members, National Guard and Reserve members, and eligible spouses and children.
The program may be used for:
- Higher education
- On-the-job training and apprenticeships
- Licensure and certification
The Minnesota GI Bill is separate from the federal GI Bill®, and students may qualify for both programs.