FAQ Frequently Asked Questions Veterans

Question: What benefits are available to veterans at CCBC?

Answer: 

CCBC offers a variety of educational benefits for veterans, including:

  • Access to GI Bill® benefits (Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, etc.)
  • Financial aid programs and scholarships specifically for veterans and their families
  • Dedicated Veteran Services to assist with transitioning from military to civilian student life
  • Participation in distance learning options, including online courses and telecourses

Supporting Document/Information: Veterans and Military Benefits

Question: Who is eligible for GI Bill® benefits at CCBC?

Answer: Veterans, active-duty military personnel, and eligible dependents (spouses and children) may qualify for GI Bill® benefits. Eligibility depends on service history, discharge status, and other criteria set by the VA. To confirm your eligibility, visit the VA website or contact CCBC’s Veteran Services office.

Supporting Document/Information: Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) | Veterans Affairs

Question: How do I apply for GI Bill® benefits at CCBC?

Answer: You can apply for GI Bill® benefits through the VA website or by submitting VA Form 22-1990. Once approved, bring your approval letter to CCBC’s Veteran Services office to ensure your benefits are applied to your tuition and fees.

Supporting Document/Information: Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) | Veterans Affairs

Question: How long do I have to use my GI Bill® benefits?

Answer: The time frame to use GI Bill® benefits varies depending on the program

  • Post-9/11 GI Bill®: If your service ended before January 1, 2013, your Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) benefits will expire 15 years after your last separation date from active service. You must use all of your benefits by that time or you’ll lose whatever’s left.
    • If your service ended on or after January 1, 2013, your benefits won’t expire thanks to a law called the Forever GI Bill - Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act. 
  • Montgomery GI Bill®: Benefits expire 10 years after separation.
  • Dependent Education Assistance (DEA – Chapter 35): Time limits vary based on eligibility.

For specific questions, contact the VA at 1-888-GIBILL-1 (888-442-4551), Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Central Time.

Quality: Can I use the GI Bill® for online or distance learning at CCBC?

Answer: Yes! Veterans and their dependents can use the GI Bill® for CCBC’s online and distance learning programs. However, payment rates may differ between in-person and online courses. Contact CCBC’s School Certifying Official (SCO) to determine how this may impact your benefits.

Question: What scholarships and financial aid programs does CCBC offer to veterans?

Answer: In addition to GI Bill® benefits, CCBC offers scholarships and financial assistance programs specifically for veterans and their families. Check with CCBC’s Financial Aid office for details.

Question: What is the Military Spouses Benefit (MyCAA Scholarship)?

Answer: The My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) Scholarship provides up to $4,000 in tuition assistance to eligible military spouses.

Question: What are the DoD-approved programs under MyCAA include?

Answer:

  • Medical Billing
  • Medical Front Office
  • Nursing Assistant / Geriatric Nursing Assistant
  • Polysomnographic (Sleep) Technologist

To apply, visit the MyCAA website for more information.

Question: Can family members of veterans receive education benefits at CCBC?

Answer: Yes, eligible family members (spouses and children) may receive GI Bill® benefits for degree and vocational training programs at CCBC.

Question: What programs are  (GI Bill®-eligible workforce development programs)

Answer: CCBC now offers new continuing education workforce development programs eligible for GI Bill® benefits:

  • CNC Machine Tool
  • Medical Assistant
  • Commercial Vehicle Operator A and B
  • Nursing Assistant
  • Polysomnographic (Sleep) Technologist (Not approved for Chapter 35 recipients.)

For more details, contact Veteran Services.

Question: Are there specific programs or courses for veterans at CCBC?

Answer: CCBC offers specialized programs, including online and fast-track courses, tailored to veterans. Contact Veteran Services for program details.

Question: Who are the CCBC’s Veteran Services Representatives

Answer: For additional questions or to submit required documentation, contact:

CCBC Essex

  • Jackie Cymek
    Phone: 443.840.2106 | Email: jcymek2@ccbcmd.edu
  • Keith DeFontes
    Phone: 443.840.4966 | Email: kdefontes2@ccbcmd.edu

CCBC Dundalk

  • Danielle Horney
    Phone: 443.840.3103 | Email: dhorney@ccbcmd.edu

CCBC Catonsville

  • Starletta Phillips
    Phone: 443.840.4305 | Email: sphillips2@ccbcmd.edu
  • Kelvin Sanchez
    Phone: 443.840.4305 | Email: Ksanchez@ccbcmd.edu