The Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program, also known as DEA or Chapter 35, offers education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of Veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition or dependents of Veterans who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-related condition.
These benefits are, typically, paid to students on a monthly basis. Students receive their VA education benefit payments on or after the first of the month following the month payment is due.
Students who qualify for Chapter 35 benefits, may also qualify for The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship (Fry Scholarship). If you qualify for both programs, you must make an irrevocable election for one of the programs before you will receive any benefits.
A child of a wartime veteran may also qualify for State Free Tuition. Please call 803.647.2434 for more information.
For more detailed information about Chapter 35 benefits please visit: http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/survivor_dependent_assistance.asp
It is very important for students receiving Chapter 35 benefits who are pursuing a certificate or diploma program to verify their enrollment. Students are mailed a monthly verification form (VA Form 22-8979) by the Regional Veteran Affairs Office.
How do I use my Chapter 35 benefits at FDTC?
If you have not received VA benefits before and are not a continuing student at FDTC:
- Complete an application and be accepted into FDTC
- Apply for your VA benefits with VA.gov
- Bring a copy of your schedule to the Veterans Services Office at FDTC
If you have received VA benefits before, but are not a continuing student at FDTC:
- Complete an application and be accepted into FDTC
- Update your school through VA.gov
- Bring a copy of your schedule to the Veterans Services Office at FDTC
If you have received VA benefits before and you are a continuing student at FDTC:
- Bring a copy of your schedule to the Veterans Services Office at FDTC
How do I use my State Free Tuition at FDTC?
If you have not received these benefits before and are not a continuing student at FDTC:
- Complete an application and be accepted into FDTC
- Fill out the Application for Tuition Assistance for Certain War Veterans' Children here
- Bring a copy of your schedule to the Veterans Services Office at FDTC
If you have received these benefits before, but are not a continuing student at FDTC:
- Complete an application and be accepted into FDTC
- Request a transfer letter by calling 1-803-647-2434
- Bring a copy of your schedule to the Veterans Services Office at FDTC
If you have received these benefits before and you are a continuing student at FDTC:
- Bring a copy of your schedule to the Veterans Services Office at FDTC
The veteran assumes full responsibility when registering for courses. Veterans will only be certified for VA benefits in courses that are required for graduation in their curriculum. Contact your advisor if you have questions concerning curriculum requirements. The student will be responsible for reimbursing the VA if an overpayment situation occurs.
General