Veteran & Military Student Benefits

Step-by-Step Guide: Using Benefits

In order to use veteran or military education benefits at UW-Stout, there are a few steps you must complete:

1. Apply to UW-Stout. Start your education journey with us.
2. Check Eligibility. Reach out to UW-Stout Veteran Services, a Military Education Liaison/Office, or your County Veteran Service Officer (CVSO).
3. Apply for benefits. Ensure you apply for federal or state military education benefits with ample time before a term begins. Applications can take extended periods of time before being approved, possibly resulting in delayed payments.
4. Complete a Veteran Benefits Worksheet online. This worksheet is used to notify our office that you are enrolled in classes and are requesting us to process your benefits. It must be completed once per each term/semester that you would like us to process your benefits.
5. Submit required paperwork. Each individual benefit requires different paperwork and applications. If you are unsure if you have submitted the correct paperwork, please contact us as soon as possible.
6. Submit Your Military Transcripts. To receive college credit for military experience and training, request your official military transcript be sent to UW-Stout. After receiving the transcript, our Transfer Coordinator can award credit based on recommendations by the American Council on Education.
7. Follow up. Any questions? We're here to help.

Residency Status Information & Important Legislation 

Residency Status for Tuition

The UW-Stout Admissions Office can assist prospective and incoming students with detailed information about residency.  Visit the UW-System's Resident Status for Tuition Purposes page for a comprehensive guide on tuition-related residency requirements. 

In-State Tuition Rates Under the Veterans Choice Act

Section 702 of the Veterans Choice Act requires public institutions of higher learning to offer in-state tuition rates to eligible veterans and their dependents who are using education benefits like the Post - 9/11 GI Bill. Essentially, if a public school charges veterans and their family members more than it does for in-state residents, the VA will disapprove the school's educational programs for GI Bill funding.

Key Points

• In-State Tuition Requirement
  • Section 702 mandates that public schools offer in-state tuition rates to eligible veterans and dependents.
• Eligible Individuals
  • This includes veterans using the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty (MGIB-AD), Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR & E), and Chapter 35 Dependent's Educational Assistance as well as their dependents who are also using eligible benefits.
• "Covered Individual"
  • The term "covered individual refers to a veteran who has been discharged or released from active-duty service for at least 90 days within three years of the enrollment date, or their spouse or child using transferred benefits or the Fry Scholarship.