VA students are required to pay all tuition and fees to the college upfront.  HCC does not participate in VA Advance Payment.

The student must submit a registration statement to the VA certifying official in the Office of Records and Registration each semester in order to receive VA educational benefits.  Submission of this paperwork will be considered a formal request to forward certification directly to the VA Regional Office. A formal request to forward enrollment certifications to the VA Regional Office may be made for classes taken up to one year from the date of submission.

In accordance with VA regulations, students seeking VA educational benefits must officially declare a program of study with the Office of Admissions and Advising in order to be certified for payment.  Students' academic program's may not be listed as "Undecided."

All postsecondary transcripts and military experience must be officially evaluated by the Office of Admissions and Advising no later then the second semester of certification. Visit Military Transcripts for additional information.

A student may not pursue a dual major without permission from the VA Regional Office.  Students must submit a letter by email to veteransaffairs@howardcc.edu detailing reasons why a dual major is requested.  The VA certifying official will forward your letter to the appropriate VA office for approval.  Allow at least 21 days for VA response to your request.

An approved course substitution form must be submitted to the VA certifying official for classes that are being substituted to complete any program requirements. Course substitution forms are completed by the Office of Admissions and Advising and approved by the division chair.

Students must submit a revised registration statement to the VA certifying official when classes are dropped or cancelled.  Failure to do so will result in overpayment.

Students who withdraw or receive nonpunitive grades for classes that have been certified for payment may be required to repay the VA Regional Office unless mitigating circumstances are involved. Documentation of mitigating circumstances must be submitted to the Office of Records and Registration.

Certifications cannot be forwarded to the VA Regional Office if the student fails to maintain the satisfactory academic progress standard outlined in the college catalogue.

If you are using Chapter 31 or Chapter 1606, you MUST verify your enrollment with VA on the last day of each month.  Failure to verify your enrollment will result in nonpayment.  Students may verify their enrollment either by phone or online.

Telephone Verification
Call 1-877-823-2378. The phone system is available 24 hours a day.

Online Verification
WAVE (Web Automated Verification of Enrollment)

• Certify your student benefit status (term dates and training time).
• Check your last payment issue date and monthly rate.
• Set up direct deposit for your educational benefits.
• Review frequently asked questions and ask questions of your own.
• Submit a request to change your address.

Questions regarding the amount of your monthly payments should be directed directly to the VA processing office.  The number to call is 1-888-GIBILL-1.

We welcome the opportunity to assist you.  Contact the VA certifying official or stop by the Office of Records and Registration in Room RCF-233 during counseling hours .