Fairfield University launches Veterans Pride Program | Press Releases

Collaboration with "Yellow Ribbon" GI Bill provides veterans with free tuition

Fairfield University has announced a new Veterans Pride Program that offers qualifying veterans tuition-free enrollment at Fairfield.

Because Fairfield has committed to offering the highest amount of supplemental tuition needed, veterans who qualify for full benefits under the new Post 9/11 GI Bill, formally known as the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act, receive a combination of VA, federal and university aid equal to the full cost of tuition for undergraduate and graduate degree programs. The financial aid benefits take effect for fall 2009 enrollment and beyond.

In making the announcement, Rev. Jeffrey von Arx, S.J., university president, said the commitment to returning veterans seems a natural fit for Fairfield, which welcomed its first class in 1947, with nearly half of the student body comprised of returning World War II veterans. "So many of our early graduates who studied under the G.I. Bill used their education to make significant contributions to their families and communities," said Fr. von Arx. "Fairfield is making this deep commitment of university financial aid to veterans in recognition of their service to our country, but also knowing we are investing in the future of exemplary citizens. We look forward to welcoming them to our campus."

To qualify for the total 36 months of education benefits, the equivalent of four academic years, veterans must have served in active duty anywhere from 90 consecutive days, for which 40 percent benefit is allowed, to 36 cumulative months, when 100 percent of the benefit takes effect.

The new benefit program is an alternative to the existing Montgomery GI Bill. Veterans who enroll under the Post 9/11 GI Bill will receive upfront tuition payments directly to the school, a book/supply stipend of up to $1,000 per year and a monthly living stipend when enrolled at least half-time. As part of the Yellow Ribbon Program, Fairfield University has elected to participate at the highest scholarship matching dollar level so that the full cost of a Fairfield education will be covered for qualified veterans at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

In addition, Fairfield University announces bonus benefits for veterans eligible for all other veterans educational benefit programs. Starting in fall 2009, Fairfield will offer a 20% grant on top of eligible benefits to be applied to any Fairfield degree program.

The Office of Graduate and Continuing Studies Admission has been designated as the primary contact for all veterans interested in applying to Fairfield and can assist with questions about academic options. For assistance, please contact Sheila McEnery, Associate Director, Graduate and Continuing Studies Admission (203) 254-4184 or gradadmis@mail.fairfield.edu.

To learn more about Fairfield's Veterans Pride Program, please go to www.fairfield.edu/veterans .