The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program, commonly referred to as Chapter 35 VA benefits, provides financial support for education and training to eligible dependents of veterans.
These benefits are designed to assist spouses and children of service members who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition or who have died as a result of their military service.
For 2025, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has updated the monthly benefit rates for Chapter 35 recipients. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the maximum education benefits available this year, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
2025 Chapter 35 VA Education Benefits Rates
From October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025, eligible dependents can receive the following monthly education assistance rates:
- Full-time enrollment: $1,536 per month
- Three-quarter-time enrollment: $1,214 per month
- Half-time enrollment: $890 per month
- Less than half-time enrollment: Covers tuition and fees only, up to the half-time rate
These rates are effective until September 30, 2025, and are subject to change based on annual adjustments by the VA.
Who Is Eligible for Chapter 35 Benefits?
To qualify for Chapter 35 VA benefits, an applicant must be the spouse or child of a veteran who meets one of the following conditions:
- Permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition.
- Died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected disability.
- Missing in action (MIA) or captured in the line of duty.
- Forcibly detained by a foreign government or power while in service.
How Long Can You Receive Chapter 35 Benefits?
Eligible dependents can use their benefits for a maximum of 36 to 45 months, depending on individual circumstances. Here’s a breakdown:
- Children of Veterans: Can use benefits between the ages of 18 and 26.
- Spouses of Veterans: Typically eligible for 10 years from the date of eligibility determination.
- Surviving Spouses: May qualify for an extension of up to 20 years under certain conditions.
How to Apply for Chapter 35 Benefits
Applying for Chapter 35 DEA benefits is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Complete VA Form 22-5490 – The application for Dependents’ Educational Assistance.
- Submit online through the VA’s eBenefits portal: www.ebenefits.va.gov.
- Mail a paper application to your regional VA processing office.
- Visit a VA regional office for in-person assistance.
Processing times may vary, so applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible before starting school.
Types of Programs Covered
Chapter 35 benefits can be used for a variety of educational and training programs, including:
- College degree programs (Associate, Bachelor’s, and Graduate degrees)
- Vocational training and technical school programs
- Apprenticeships and on-the-job training (OJT)
- Certification and licensing courses
- Correspondence courses
- Entrepreneurial training
Additional Financial Assistance Options
In addition to Chapter 35 benefits, dependents may be eligible for other financial aid options:
- Federal Pell Grants – Need-based grants for undergraduate students (www.studentaid.gov).
- State-Level VA Benefits – Some states offer additional education benefits for veterans’ dependents.
- Private Scholarships – Many organizations provide scholarships for military families. Check Scholarships for Military Children: www.militaryscholar.org.
Conclusion
The Chapter 35 VA benefits program provides essential financial support for dependents of service members, helping them achieve educational and career goals. With monthly payments reaching up to $1,536 for full-time students in 2025, these benefits significantly reduce the financial burden of education.
Eligible dependents are encouraged to apply early, explore additional financial aid options, and stay updated with any VA policy changes that may affect their benefits.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
A senior at Yale-NUS College with interests in developmental and labour economics, as well as creative non-fiction and poetry. Currently, I’m studying as an Economics major and an Arts and Humanities minor (focusing on Creative Writing) with heavy involvement in the Singaporean journalism scene and involved in research on economic history and educational policy. I’m working as an author for The Octant, Yale-NUS’ student publication, as a writer for Wingspan, Yale-NUS’ alumni magazine, and as a tutor for the NUS Libraries Writer’s Centre. | Linkedin