Veterans Benefits
You Served — We Support
On This Page: Overview | Federal VA Programs | Illinois Veteran Grants | Tuition Assistance | How to Get Started | Policies | Resources
Kishwaukee College is committed to supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and military-connected families. We help you access federal, state, and college benefits so you can focus on your education.
Overview of Your Education Benefits
| Benefit Source | What You Get (Quick Recap) |
|---|---|
| Federal VA GI Bill® Programs | Tuition/fees, book stipend, monthly housing stipend, protection from late VA payments, dedicated support. |
| Illinois Veteran Grant (IVG) | 100% tuition + mandatory fees at Illinois public institutions; no book or housing support. |
| Illinois National Guard Grant (ING) | Tuition + mandatory fees for up to 8 semesters; must remain in Guard; does not cover books. |
| Federal Tuition Assistance (TA) | Covers tuition for active-duty/Guard/Reserve members taking approved courses; amounts vary by branch. |
| Transfer Military Credit (JST) | College credit for military training/experience (case-by-case evaluation); can shorten time to degree. |
| Veterans Certifying Official Support | Help with paperwork, benefit certification, priority registration guidance, and navigation of VA/State programs. |
Federal VA Education Programs
These federal programs help eligible veterans, service members, and dependents pay for college.
Covers tuition, fees, book stipend, and possible housing allowance based on your service percentage.
Illinois Veteran Education Grants
Illinois offers two major programs that cover tuition and mandatory fees at community colleges.
Covers tuition & mandatory fees for eligible Illinois veterans (based on service length, residency, discharge status).
Covers tuition & fees for qualifying Guard members for up to 8 semesters.
Military Tuition Assistance (TA)
Active-duty service members may receive Tuition Assistance through their branch of the military.
- Covers up to 100% of tuition within branch limits
- Students apply through their branch portal
- TA must be approved before enrolling
How to Get Started
Follow these simple steps to begin using your VA or state benefits at Kish.
- DD214 (member copy 4)
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE) for VA benefits
- Joint Services Transcript (JST), if applicable
We’ll help ensure your benefits are processed correctly.
Connect with our Veterans Services Coordinator, Adam Gisseler.
Policies & Important Information
- Attendance must be verified
- Non-attendance may reduce your benefits