Military veterans and their dependents wishing to pursue a degree at Midway College may now take part in the new Yellow Ribbon program that is a part of the Post 9/11 GI Bill.
As a Yellow Ribbon Institution, Midway College will help offset the tuition rates for veterans pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, in conjunction with the new GI Bill benefits.
"Midway College is proud to honor our nation’s veterans through this educational benefit program," said Midway College President William B. Drake, Jr. "In concert with the Yellow Ribbon program we will be able to help these men and women earn a bachelor ‘s degree or a MBA in an accelerated format specifically designed to accommodate their very busy life and work schedules."
The program begins August 1, 2009, and payment is based upon the course load managed by the individual and can be applied to traditional or online programs. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will pay a maximum amount based on the highest public college tuition hourly rate under the new benefits. With the Yellow Ribbon program, Midway College will provide those who qualify a scholarship to make up to 50 percent of the difference between the maximum amount paid by the VA and the actual tuition cost. The Yellow Ribbon program will provide the remaining 50 percent of the cost difference.
Midway College is not setting a limit on the number of students who can qualify for this program. The Yellow Ribbon benefits will be available to all qualified students whether taking one class or a full-time schedule.
The new Post 9/11 GI Bill was signed into law on June 30, 2008, and partial benefits will be available to veterans who served at least 90 days on active duty after September 10, 2001. Maximum benefits, including the Yellow Ribbon program, are available to those who have served 36 months of active duty since September 10, 2001.
"This is a great opportunity for veterans and their families. We look forward to working with these heroes to help them find the best educational path at Midway College for their futures," said Drake.
