Yellow Ribbon Program (Post 9/11 GI Bill® Only)
Baylor University is a committed participant in the Yellow Ribbon Program, extending this benefit to all qualifying undergraduate students. Those who have been honorably discharged from active duty with full Post 9/11 benefits, or dependents who have received Transfer of Entitlement, may be eligible for this program. It is important to note, that at present, the Yellow Ribbon Program does not extend to graduate students at Baylor University.
What is Baylor University’s Yellow Ribbon Program?
Baylor University, a private institution, adheres to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) guidelines which establish an annual maximum amount for tuition and fees, commonly known as the "VA cap." This cap represents the limit of VA contributions towards tuition and fees each academic year. When this limit is reached, the Yellow Ribbon Program is activated. Baylor University participates in this program by matching 50% of the VA's Yellow Ribbon contribution, effectively reducing the balance to zero for eligible tuition and fees. It is important to note, however, that students are responsible for additional expenses such as housing, meal plans, and other fees as these are not covered by the VA. However, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a monthly housing allowance that may help cover some of these costs.
Who is eligible for Yellow Ribbon Program?
To be eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program (YR):
- You must be an undergraduate student.
- You must be approved by the VA to receive Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill® benefits at the 100% level. For questions concerning your eligibility percentage visit the VA's page detailing how they determine eligibility percentage here.
- You can be receiving benefits under the John Fry Scholarship.
- You must be accepted to the University.
- You must provide the Baylor VA Benefits Office with a VA issued Certificate of Eligibility stating you are 100% eligible under the Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI Bill®.
- Accepted students must upload a copy of their VA issued Certificate of Eligibility to the Baylor VA Benefits Office: VA COE Submission
- You must remain in good academic standing with Baylor University. Baylor University is not required to continue making Yellow Ribbon contributions if a student is not making Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)
- For additional information: Yellow Ribbon Program.
When can I apply for the Yellow Ribbon Program?
At Baylor University, undergraduate students who qualify for 100% of the Post 9/11 benefits are automatically eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program. There is no need for a separate application process. Additionally, the program offers an unlimited number of positions, ensuring that all qualifying students have the opportunity to benefit. Eligible students will be granted Yellow Ribbon funding unless they choose to decline it.
How does the Yellow Ribbon apply with institutional awarded scholarships such as academic scholarships and/or need based scholarships?
Important notes to consider when using the Yellow Ribbon Program:
- The Yellow Ribbon Program is NOT available to graduate students.
- Expenses such as accommodation, meals, and parking permits are the student's responsibility. However, the Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a monthly housing allowance that may help cover some of these costs.
- You will continue to use months of eligibility when using the Yellow Ribbon Program. Once your months of eligibility are exhausted, you are no longer eligible to receive the Yellow Ribbon Program payments.
- Starting on August 1, 2022, you may become eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program if you’re currently an active-duty service member who qualifies at the 100% level (you already served on active duty for at least 36 months) or if you’re a spouse using the transferred benefits of an active-duty service member who meets these qualifications.
‘‘GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill."