Preparing to Receive Benefits

Download the Veterans Education Benefits booklet

Following are some things you need to know to prepare to receive veterans educational benefits at DMACC.

First complete the online form, or if you will be on the Ankeny Campus, stop in to the Veterans Services office. We are located in Building 1, in the Financial Aid department. The certifying official will be happy to get you started. You can also reach the Veterans Services Coordinator by phone at 515-964-6278 or by email.

Before you can begin receiving VA educational benefits at DMACC, you will need to do the following:

  • Apply to the DVA for the category of benefits you qualify for
  • Enroll in a degree or diploma program at DMACC
  • Inform the Veterans Services Coordinator of actual enrollment and provide the pertinent paperwork (i.e., VA application, DD-214, NOBE, certificate of eligibility, etc.), depending on your category.

If you are a new applicant for veterans benefits, the processing of your claim by the VA will take a minimum of 60 to 90 days from when you submit your paperwork. You do not need to be approved for those benefits before registering for classes. If you are transferring from another college where you received VA benefits and notify the Veterans Services Coordinator in a timely manner (at least 30 days before the term starts), your semester certifying process will go much faster.

Finally, veterans benefits for all categories, except Chapter 31-VA Vocational Rehabilitation, do NOT pay for your schooling. They pay you directly while you are attending school. Therefore, be prepared to pay your bill with DMACC when it comes due each term. If you are a Chapter 1606 or 1607, you may be eligible for tuition assistance through your military component. These payments are made to the college, but applications for this assistance must be done through your units.

We welcome you to DMACC and hope this information will assist you in getting started with your VA benefits. We look forward to meeting you and assisting you in receiving your benefits in a consistent, timely manner as you pursue your educational goals at DMACC.

» Download "Maximizing Your Veterans Education Benefits at DMACC" (PDF)