🎓 Education
Montgomery GI Bill – Active Duty (MGIB-AD, Chapter 30)
Monthly education benefit for members who paid the $1,200 buy-in.
Official sourceU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Official website Last verified 2026-07-13·Effective 1985-07-01
What it is
Provides up to 36 months of education benefits paid directly to the student. Requires the $1,200 pay reduction taken during first 12 months of service. Delimiting date is generally 10 years from last discharge.
How much it pays
Monthly rate published annually by VA (see VA MGIB-AD rate tables).
Who qualifies
- Enrolled in MGIB-AD and paid the $1,200 buy-in.
- Honorable discharge (or currently serving with qualifying service).
- High school diploma or equivalency by end of first obligated period of service.
How to apply
- 1Apply on VA.gov with VA Form 22-1990.
- 2Provide school enrollment to VA certifying official.
- 3Receive monthly payments during enrollment.
Frequently asked questions
MGIB-AD vs Post-9/11 — which is better?
For most post-9/11 members, Post-9/11 pays more. VA's GI Bill Comparison Tool estimates both. Once you elect Post-9/11 in exchange for MGIB-AD you cannot switch back.