What is Chapter 31 VR&E?｜Veterandegrees

For many veterans, the transition out of the military is not just about finding a job. It is about rebuilding a career, rediscovering your strengths, and figuring out what kind of civilian work truly fits your life after service. For veterans with service-connected disabilities, that process can be even more complicated. That is exactly why Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E), also known as Chapter 31, exists.

VR&E is not simply another education benefit. It is one of the most powerful and comprehensive programs the VA offers, because it focuses on one thing: helping you achieve meaningful, long-term employment that aligns with both your abilities and your goals.

Here, we will walk you through what VR&E is, who qualifies, what it covers, and how to apply. If you are trying to understand whether Chapter 31 or the GI Bill is the better route, you will get clarity here.

What Is VR&E (Chapter 31)?

Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E) is a VA program designed to help veterans with service-connected disabilities prepare for, secure, and maintain stable employment.

It covers a wide range of services such as:

Career counseling
Tuition and training costs
Books, supplies, and equipment
Resume and job placement support
Apprenticeships and OJT
Self-employment assistance
Independent living support for veterans unable to work

While the Post-9/11 GI Bill is built around funding education, VR&E is built around career outcomes. If education is part of your career path, VR&E will pay for it, but the program goes much further than tuition.

Who Is Eligible for VR&E Benefits?

VR&E is specifically for veterans with service-connected disabilities, but eligibility is broader than many people expect.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

You may qualify for VR&E if:

You have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10 percent, and
The VA determines that you need rehabilitation services to achieve employment

A rating of 20 percent or higher makes approval more likely, but veterans with a 10 percent rating are still fully eligible for consideration.

Active Duty Service Members May Also Qualify

Active-duty service members can also apply if:

They have a memorandum rating of at least 20 percent, or
They are anticipated to receive an honorable discharge

12-Year Eligibility Window

Normally, veterans must use VR&E benefits within 12 years of:

Receiving a VA disability rating, or
Leaving active duty

However, this 12-year rule can be extended if the VA determines you have a serious employment handicap.

What Does VR&E Cover?

One of the reasons many veterans prefer VR&E over the GI Bill is because it covers more, lasts longer, and adapts to your personal situation.

Tuition and Training

VR&E can cover full tuition for:

Associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees
Professional programs (law, counseling, social work, etc.)
Certifications and licenses
Apprenticeships and on-the-job training
Technical and vocational schools

The VA pays 100 % of approved tuition, which often includes private universities that would exceed GI Bill limits.

Books, Supplies, and Equipment

VR&E covers essentials such as:

Textbooks
Technology (laptop, software, assistive devices)
Lab equipment
Tools required for your field
Licensing exam fees
Uniforms or safety gear

Monthly Subsistence Allowance (MSA)

Instead of GI Bill MHA, VR&E offers a monthly subsistence allowance, which in many cases is higher than GI Bill housing payments.

Career Counseling and Job Placement

VR&E counselors help:

Identify your strengths and career goals
Create a training plan
Connect you to internships or apprenticeships
Network with employers who prefer hiring veterans

Self-Employment Assistance

For veterans who want to start a business, VR&E may provide:

Business training
Tools, supplies, and equipment
One-on-one support with business planning

Independent Living Services

For veterans who cannot immediately return to work, VR&E offers independent living services such as:

Home modifications
Assistive technology
Counseling and life-skills support

Chapter 31 vs. Post-9/11 GI Bill: What’s the Difference?

Many veterans qualify for both, so understanding the difference matters.

Key Advantages of VR&E

Often covers more tuition than GI Bill
May fund graduate or professional degrees
Includes career placement services
Provides subsistence allowance (often higher than GI Bill MHA)
Supports equipment, tools, and technology
Helps veterans with employment limitations

When Veterans Choose VR&E Instead of the GI Bill

Veterans often choose VR&E when:

They plan to pursue a graduate degree
They want job placement support from the VA
They need additional accommodations
Their school’s tuition exceeds GI Bill caps
They want a longer benefit period (up to 48 months)

How To Apply for VR&E (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Apply Online

Submit an application through VA Form 28-1900.
You can apply:

Online at VA.gov
Through your eBenefits account
With help from a VSO (Veterans Service Organization)

Step 2: Attend Orientation and Initial Appointment

A VR&E counselor will contact you to schedule an evaluation where they:

Review your service-connected disabilities
Assess your employment barriers
Discuss your skills and goals

Step 3: Complete a Vocational Assessment

This assessment determines:

Whether you qualify
What types of jobs suit your background
Whether training is needed
What accommodations you may require

Step 4: Receive a Customized Rehabilitation Plan

If approved, you and your counselor create a Rehabilitation Plan, which may include:

College degree programs
Vocational training
Apprenticeships
Supported employment
Independent living services

Step 5: Begin Training and Receive Support

Once enrolled, VR&E will:

Pay tuition directly to the school
Provide supplies and equipment
Deposit your monthly subsistence allowance
Track your job progress

What Careers Can VR&E Support?

VR&E focuses on employment outcome, so careers with strong job demand are common choices:

Business and management
Nursing and healthcare
Information technology and cybersecurity
Government and public service
Skilled trades and technical fields
Law, counseling, or social work
Education and training roles

If the career is realistic, achievable, and connected to your abilities, VR&E may approve it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is VR&E better than the GI Bill?

It depends on your goals. VR&E may pay more, last longer, and support more career tools. Many veterans prefer VR&E for graduate school.

Can I use VR&E for online or hybrid programs?

Yes. VR&E approves many formats as long as they support your rehabilitation plan.

Does VR&E pay for housing?

Yes. You receive a subsistence allowance, which is sometimes higher than GI Bill MHA.

Can VR&E pay for a master’s or doctorate degree?

Yes. Many veterans complete graduate programs through Chapter 31.

Can I switch from GI Bill to VR&E?

Yes. Many veterans start with VR&E even after using part of the GI Bill.

How long does the application process take?

It varies, but most veterans receive a decision or an intake appointment within a few weeks.

What if I am already working?

If your disability limits your current employment or advancement, you may still qualify.

Connect with a GI Bill Navigator

Free one-on-one support to help you understand your benefits.

VeteranDegrees.com Navigators help you:

Understand GI Bill® tuition coverage
Interpret your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Learn how BAH works for hybrid, online, and in-person programs
Verify whether a program type is VA-approved
Know which questions to ask a School Certifying Official (SCO)
Explore education paths based on your goals

What is Chapter 31 VR&E?

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