Military and Veterans Benefits
Military Training or Experience
Cleary University recognizes college credit for military training and experience. Four and one-half credits are awarded for each year of active military service (Reserve and National Guard service are excluded) up to a maximum of 20 hours.
To receive credit for military service, students need to submit a copy of the discharge form (DD-214). Should a review of a student's military training records indicate there is potential for greater credit award, then copies of the military training records and/or a copy of the transfer or discharge form (DD-214) will be submitted to the American Council on Education, Department of Military Evaluations for a credit recommendation.
Who is Eligible for VA Benefits?
From the days when Owen Cleary, son of the University's founder, served in the United States Army during World War I, Cleary University has been committed to the veterans that have served our country. In a number of cases, dependents of veterans may also be eligible for financial aid.
VA students are those who expect to receive education benefits from the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs under VA education programs such as:
- Chapter 30: Montgomery G.I. Bill Active Duty
- Chapter 31: Vocational Rehabilitation
- Chapter 32: Veterans Educational Assistance Program Educational Assistance Test Program (Sec. 901) VEAP
- Chapter 35: Survivors’ and dependents’ Educational Assistance Program
- Chapter 1606: Montgomery G. I. Bill - Selected Reserve
- Hostage Relief Act of 1980
- Restored Entitlement Programs for Survivors (REPS)
- Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP) chapter 1607
- Omnibus Diplomatic Security and Antiterrorism Act
- State of Michigan Children of Veterans Tuition Grant Program NEW
Certification Request
VA students must complete a Request for Certification Form which must then be submitted to the Records Office at Cleary University. A Codes of Conduct Form must be submitted to the VA certifying official, as well as a copy of the DD-214 Form for Chapter 30 students. The certifying official in the Records Office will complete the enrollment certification and submit it to the Department of Veterans Affairs. To receive these eligibility benefits, the Cleary University VA Certifying Official can be reached at (517) 338-3011, to facilitate the process for you. Failure to provide complete information will result in a delay of certification from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Eligibility for VA benefits is determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs, not by the certifying official. Submission of the certification request does not guarantee payment of benefits by the VA.
Benefit Payments and Enrollment
VA benefits are payable for approved courses and programs only. Restrictions apply to some courses and/or programs under some or all VA regulations. The Cleary University certifying official is required to report to Department of Veterans Affairs the complete details of enrollment and any other status changes. VA students must promptly notify Cleary’s certifying official of any change in enrollment, including official and unofficial withdrawals. VA students who fail to successfully complete a course are required to notify the Department of Veterans Affairs of the last date of attendance. Failure to do so will result in Cleary reporting that the student never attended the course.
Determination of Benefits and Contact Information
Cleary University cannot determine eligibility or payment of VA benefits. VA students having questions concerning the type or amount of the VA benefits must direct them to the Department of Veterans Affairs. The VA office serving this area is: VA Regional Office P. O. Box 66830 St. Louis, MO 63166-6830 888.442.4551.
Cleary Veteran Scholarships
Veterans With Full Pell Eligibility
Veteran students who are taking up to 12 credits per term, and are eligible for a full Pell Grant (file a FAFSA form & have a verified "0" expected family contribution) are eligible for a scholarship equal to out of pocket tuition costs after other grants/scholarships and Veteran's Education benefits have been applied. This scholarship is only eligible for use in an undergraduate degree program up to 12 credits per term.
- Veterans need to be honorably discharged and provide a copy of their DD214
- File a VA benefit form 22-1990 to determine eligibility for benefits.
- Other grant and Veteran’s Education benefit eligibility will be used to determine remaining tuition charges eligible for VA grant amount.
Funds are limited, we can only allow one Cleary grant/scholarship per eligible student. This grant may not be used in conjunction with any other Cleary Grant/Scholarship. Grant funds are not refundable.
For application click here.
30% Grant for Military Service
All other veterans not eligible for a full Pell Grant, may be eligible for the 30% military discount for Cleary undergraduate or graduate programs. Other grant/VA education benefits will be used to determine remaining tuition charges eligible for Military Service Grant.
Funds are limited, we can only allow one Cleary grant/scholarship per eligible student. This grant may not be used in conjunction with any other Cleary Grant/Scholarship. Grant funds are not refundable.
Guaranteed Tuition Rate
If you are called into active duty while you are taking classes at Cleary, and you aren't able to finish your degree, we will hold your tuition rate for up to nine months after you have been released from active duty. You will need to bring in a copy of your release papers to verify.
Online Resources
Department of Veterans Affairs Forms
Online Application for VA Education Benefits
National Resource Directory (an online partnership for wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, their families and those who support them.)
Michigan Army and Air National Guard Grants and Scholarships
- Be admitted to a degree-granting program at Cleary University;
- Be a Michigan resident;
- Be a member of the Michigan Army or Air National Guard;
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress at Cleary University.
