Dependents Education Assistance
About This Benefit
Dependents Education Assistance. Available to veterans with a 100% service-connected . Note: must be considered permanent..
Dependents Education Assistance is a federal benefit administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for eligible veterans across the United States.
To qualify, veterans must meet the following requirements: must have a service-connected disability; requires 100% or higher service-connected disability rating.
Additional factors that may affect eligibility include: additional requirement: must be considered permanent.; enrollment in va healthcare helps confirm p&t status for dea eligibility.
Why This Benefit Matters
Career advancement. Education benefits can cover tuition, fees, and living expenses — worth tens of thousands of dollars. These programs help veterans transition to civilian careers or advance in their current field.
Financial support. Financial assistance programs help bridge gaps in income, cover emergency expenses, or provide bonuses and allowances you've earned through your service.
Family protection. Benefits that extend to your spouse, children, or dependents multiply the value of your service. Education, healthcare, and financial support for your family provides lasting security.
Who Qualifies
- Must have a service-connected disability
- Requires 100% or higher service-connected disability rating
- Additional requirement: must be considered permanent.(may improve eligibility)
- Enrollment in VA Healthcare helps confirm P&T status for DEA eligibility(may improve eligibility)
Last Verified
February 5, 2026
VerifiedNext Steps
Gather your documents
Most applications require your DD-214, VA disability rating letter, and state ID. Some benefits may require additional documentation.
Contact the administering office
Visit the official source above for application instructions, or contact your local VA office for assistance.
Consider working with a VSO
A Veterans Service Organization (VSO) can help you navigate the application process at no cost. They're trained to maximize your benefits.
Related Benefits
CHAMPVA–Civilian Health and Medical Program
CHAMPVA–Civilian Health and Medical Program (unemployable condition must be considered permanent)
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (subject to income limitations for dependent child)
Dependents Educational Assistance
Dependents Educational Assistance (unemployable condition m ust be considered permanent)
Individual Unemployability
Individual Unemployability (must be unemployable due to service connected disabilities)
Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship
Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship (active duty death after September 10, 2001)
This information is for general reference only and is not a legal eligibility determination. Always verify with a VA-accredited representative.