Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance

About Chapter 35

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.

Usually, these benefits are disbursed monthly to students, with students receiving their VA education benefit payments either on or after the first day of the month following the due date for payment.

For students pursuing a certificate or diploma program and receiving Chapter 35 benefits, it is crucial to verify your enrollment status. The Regional Veteran Affairs Office sends out a monthly verification form (VA Form 22-8979) to these students by mail.

Students who qualify for Chapter 35 benefits, may also qualify for The . If you qualify for both programs, you must make an irrevocable election for one of the programs before you will receive any benefits.

A dependent (child) of a wartime veteran may also qualify for the Tuition Assistance Program. Visit their for more information.

For more information about Chapter 35 click . 

How do I use my Chapter 35 benefits at 91¿ì»îÁÖ?

I have never received VA benefits and I am not a continuing student:
  • Complete an and be accepted into 91¿ì»îÁÖ
  • Apply for your VA benefits with
  • Bring a copy of your schedule to the Veterans Services Office at 91¿ì»îÁÖ 
I have received VA benefits previously, but I am not a continuing student:
  • Complete an and be accepted into 91¿ì»îÁÖ
  • Update your school through
  • Bring a copy of your schedule to the Veterans Services Office at 91¿ì»îÁÖ
I have previously received VA benefits and I am a continuing student:
  • Bring a copy of your schedule to the Veterans Services Office at 91¿ì»îÁÖ

How do I use my Tuition Assistance Program benefits?

I have never received VA benefits and I am not a continuing student:
  • Complete an and be accepted into 91¿ì»îÁÖ
  • Fill out the Application for Tuition Assistance for Certain War Veterans' Children
  • Bring a copy of your schedule to the Veterans Services Office at 91¿ì»îÁÖ 
I have received VA benefits previously, but I am not a continuing student:
  • Complete an and be accepted into 91¿ì»îÁÖ
  • Request a transfer letter by calling 1.803.647.2434
  • Bring a copy of your schedule to the Veterans Services Office at 91¿ì»îÁÖ 
I have previously received VA benefits and I am a continuing student:
  • Bring a copy of your schedule to the Veterans Services Office at 91¿ì»îÁÖ

Still have questions? Contact Us!

Location

91¿ì»îÁÖ Main Campus
Building 5000
3rd Floor, Room 5318

HOURS

M - Th: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
F: 8:00 am - 11:30 am

Contact

Phone: 843.661.8144
Email: VeteranServices@fdtc.edu