Step-by-Step Process - for Veterans Education Benefits and Financial Aid

As a veteran or active duty member of the U.S. military, you may qualify to finance your education through a combination of VA education benefits, federal financial aid, scholarships and other types of assistance. We’ll help you secure the benefits you have earned by serving our country.

New students

Step 1: Apply for Federal Financial Aid

If you have not done so already, submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal grants and loans.

Step 2: Apply for VA Education Benefits

You may be eligible for the Post-911 GI Bill and/or other VA education benefit programs.

To qualify for veterans education benefits:

  • You must be accepted to the University
  • Your educational objective at NWHSU must be the same educational objective you report to the Veterans Administration
  • Your enrollment must be certified by the University.

Our VA Certifying Official will initiate the certifying process for each trimester throughout enrollment or until benefits expire. The enrollment certification in VA-ONCE takes place the 2nd week of the term.

Step 3: Submit your documentation

Turn in your documentation (Certificate of Eligibility) to Northwestern’s VA Certifying Official regarding your eligibility status with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Step 4: Apply for Northwestern’s Military Scholarship

Qualified U.S. military personnel are eligible to receive a 20% tuition discount scholarship.
(Note: Spouses and children of U.S. military personnel are eligible for a 15% tuition discount scholarship.)

Step 5: Check into Northwestern’s Scholarships for Incoming Students

Northwestern offers additional scholarships to incoming students, including the Legacy, Merit and Diversity Scholarship.

Step 6: Apply for the Yellow Ribbon Program

You may be eligible for funds to cover the difference between your Post-911 GI Bill Chapter 33 benefit and the annual cost of tuition at Northwestern.

Step 7: Consider additional veteran’s education funding programs

Review other funding sources to assist in financing your education:

Step 8: Consider an External Scholarship

Many organizations not directly associated with the Northwestern offer external scholarship opportunities.

Current students

Step 1: Submit a FAFSA

If you are receiving Federal Financial Aid, you must submit a FAFSA every year.

Step 2: VA Education Benefits certification

Our VA Certifying Official will initiate the certifying process for each trimester throughout enrollment or until benefits expire.

Step 3: Check into Northwestern’s Scholarships for Current Students

Northwestern offers additional scholarships to current students, including the Diversity Leadership Scholarship, Student Leadership Award and numerous scholarships awarded at our annual Alumni Homecomings and Symposiums.

Step 4: Consider an External Scholarship

Many organizations not directly associated with the Northwestern offer external scholarship opportunities.

Report to Northwestern’s VA Certifying Official if there are changes in your:

  1. Eligibility status
  2. Academic schedule (drop, add or withdraw)
  3. Choice of academic major
  4. Residence (if you move)