Ask Jeni: Can I Use my GI Bill to Repay My Student Loans

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I’m a veteran of the US Navy. I don’t know why I didn’t take advantage of the GI Bill for college, but I got talked into taking out regular student loans. Is there a way to have my student loans covered by the GI Bill or is it too late?

Thank you for your service in the Navy.

Are you finished taking out student loans? If you’re still going to college and taking courses you can use your GI Bill for new tuition and other qualifying college expenses.

If you’re done with school and strictly wondering about repayment, unfortunately the GI Bill can’t be applied to repay student loan debt.

There is a benefit program available for military folks who enlist for three years of active duty that repays a capped amount of student loan debt. I believe that benefit may be targeted to new enlistment not veterans but you could check with your VA office or a recruiter. It also means you would have to re-enlist for three years which may interrupt your current career track.