Veteran's Assistance
FAQ's for Veterans Using VA Educational Benefits
If all other steps for certification are complete, once a student submits his/her Blue Sheet the processing time is 1-2 weeks. However, during peak registration processing time can take up to 3 weeks.
How often am I required to submit the Veteran’s Statement of Responsibility to Veterans Services, and why?
You are required to submit a 'Blue Sheet' every term that you plan to collect benefits. Turning this in allows the college to certify you for your courses and prevents drop for non-payment.
What do I do if I drop or add classes after I turn in my Blue Sheet?
You will need to notify Veterans Services immediately! Failure to do so can affect your monthly payments.
How will I know my courses have been certified?
If you provide your e-mail address, you will receive an email notification once your certification is processed. However, the best way to check on your certification status via the WAVE website at http://www.gibill.va.gov/wave/index.do (except chapters 33 and 35).
Why am I required to submit transcripts from other schools attended and the military?
All prior credit must be evaluated before a veteran can collect educational benefits at the college. Veterans are not able to receive payment for a course that has previously been completed successfully or that is not required on their VA Student Educational Plan (SEP). Also, a VA SEP cannot be prepared until all transcripts are submitted.
Am I required to submit High School transcripts?
The only reason HS transcripts must be submitted are to obtain certain Ed Plans. For instance, transferring to a UC and various program of studies require an evaluation of HS transcripts.
How do I schedule an appointment to meet with a Counselor?
If you want to meet with a Counselor to discuss choosing a program of study you can make an appointment with the Counseling Dept. Veterans Services staff can also give you a Counselor Referral form to take to the Counseling Dept. to schedule an appointment.
However, in order to make an appointment with a Veterans' Counselor to review your VA Student Education Plan you must first ensure your transcripts have been received by the college. You can log into WebAdvisor at www.rcc.edu to check the status of incoming transcripts.
What is a VA SEP and why is it necessary to obtain one before I am certified?
A VA SEP is a Student Educational Plan that is prepared by a Veterans’ Counselor for Veterans. This form lists the courses that are needed, in progress or have already been completed for a VA approved program. The VA will only pay a Veteran to take courses listed on the VA SEP. Therefore, students will only be eligible for payment if registered for courses listed.
How do I obtain a VA Student Education Plan (VA SEP)?
Log into WebAdvisor at www.rcc.edu to check the status of incoming transcripts. Once all transcripts have been received call Veterans Services at Riverside (951)222-8607and request a transcript evaluation. Be prepared to tell Veterans Services your intended “Program of Study”. Once the VA SEP is complete, you will receive notification via your RCCD e-mail. This email will direct you to contact the Counseling Dept. at the college you attend to schedule a counseling appointment to review and receive a copy of your VA SEP.
What do I do if I want to change my Major?
You will need to submit a 22-1995/5495 form to Veterans Services.
Does RCC have a VA Work Study Program?
Yes, and occasionally there are positions open for VA work study; please contact RCC Veterans Services at 951-222-8607 for more information.
Can I apply for any other type of Financial Assistance in addition to GIBILL?
Yes, you can also apply for financial aid via http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/. For more information please refer to Student Financial Services website or contact 951-222-8710.
How do I know if I qualify for priority registration?
Veterans are eligible for priority registration for four years after being discharged from active duty. In order to be assigned a priority registration date Veterans must take a copy of their DD214 discharge papers to RCC Veterans Services. Staff will tell eligible Veterans their priority registration dates. Priority registration dates are also available on the Veterans Website.
Note: Students collecting benefits at Riverside City College are now also eligible to receive a priority registration date, please contact Veterans Services to inquire.
Am I required to notify Veterans Services at my college if I fail a course?
Yes. If you fail a course, you will receive a letter from Veterans Services that must be completed and returned promptly. If you do not receive this form it is important that you contact Veterans Services immediately.
I am a student and am interested in taking classes required on my VA SEP at a different college/university, what would I need to do to get those courses certified? (Parent School Letter)
A Parent School letter is required in order to collect benefits for courses taken while concurrently enrolled in another college. If you plan to maintain RCC as your primary school, Veterans Services can create the Parent School Letter. You will need to provide the course descriptions, amount of units, and fees paid for each course you are registered for to Veterans Services at your home college. Once this information has been received a Parent School Letter can be provided to the other college so you can be certified for your course/s. This information also pertains to the schools within the RCCD district.
If I am called to Active Duty and am unable to finish my courses, what should I do and what will happen to my record at the college?
Students called to active duty can drop their classes, get refunds for fees and books, and receive an MW on their transcript. The MW grade is not counted as punitive towards probation or dismissal. Documentation is required – You will need to submit your active duty or reserve duty orders with an ECP to Admissions to start this process. If you are using your GIBILL benefits, you must also let Veterans Services staff know.
If I change my address will I also need to notify the VA in addition to RCCD?
Yes, please also contact them online through the GI Bill website, through WAVE, or by phone at (888) 442-4551.
