Hawaii Office of Veterans Services
HIHawaii state veterans affairs office providing benefits counseling, claims assistance, and connections to state veteran programs.
Veteran Education Benefits in Hawaii
Find veteran education benefits in Hawaii. GI Bill, state tuition programs, vocational training, and veteran-friendly schools for Hawaii veterans.
Education benefits are among the most valuable rewards of military service. Hawaii veterans have access to federal programs like the GI Bill plus state-specific education benefits that can cover tuition, fees, and living expenses. With approximately 110,000 veterans in the state, Hawaii has built support systems to help veterans succeed academically.
This guide covers every major education benefit available to Hawaii veterans, including federal programs, state tuition benefits, vocational training, and how to find veteran-friendly schools.
Federal Education Benefits
Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides up to 36 months of education benefits including full tuition and fees at public institutions (or up to $27,120.05/year at private institutions in 2026), a monthly housing allowance, and a $1,000 annual book stipend. Benefits can be used at colleges, universities, and vocational programs in Hawaii.
Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30)
Provides up to 36 months of education benefits for veterans who contributed $100/month for 12 months during active duty. The 2026 full-time rate is approximately $2,054/month. Covers degree programs, certificate programs, and apprenticeships.
VR&E / Chapter 31
Veterans with service-connected disabilities can access education, training, and career services through Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment. Benefits include tuition, books, supplies, and subsistence allowance.
Hawaii State Education Benefits
Hawaii provides in-state tuition for veterans at University of Hawaii campuses. The state offers the Hawaii National Guard Tuition Assistance program. UH Manoa and other campuses have dedicated veteran services offices
State tuition programs: in-state tuition at University of Hawaii
Veteran-Friendly Schools in Hawaii
When choosing a school in Hawaii, look for institutions with dedicated Veterans Services offices, student veteran organizations, academic counseling for veterans, and flexible credit-transfer policies for military training. Use the VA's GI Bill Comparison Tool at va.gov to compare schools.
Apprenticeships & Vocational Training
The GI Bill covers approved apprenticeships and on-the-job training programs in Hawaii. Veterans receive a monthly allowance while learning a trade. Programs are available in construction, healthcare, IT, manufacturing, and other fields. Check apprenticeship.gov for listings.
Key Resources
- GI Bill Hotline: 1-888-442-4551
- GI Bill Comparison Tool: va.gov/gi-bill-comparison-tool
- OVS: Contact for state education benefits
Education Resources in Hawaii
Hawaii Military and Veterans Family Support Program
HISupport services for military and veteran families in Hawaii including counseling and family readiness programs.
Hawaii Department of Labor Veterans Services
HIEmployment and training services for Hawaii veterans including job placement and career counseling.
Legal Aid Society of Hawaii Veterans Project
HIFree civil legal assistance for low-income veterans in Hawaii.
Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation
HIState housing finance agency providing mortgage assistance, rental programs, and housing resources for Hawaii residents including veterans.
VA Pacific Islands Health Care System
HIVA health care system serving Hawaii veterans with medical, mental health, and specialty care services.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What education benefits does Hawaii offer veterans?
- Hawaii offers in-state tuition at University of Hawaii in addition to federal GI Bill benefits. The OVS can help you understand all available education benefits.
- Can I use the GI Bill in Hawaii?
- Yes, the Post-9/11 GI Bill and Montgomery GI Bill can be used at any approved institution in Hawaii. The Post-9/11 GI Bill covers full tuition at public schools and up to $27,120.05/year at private schools.
- Does Hawaii offer free tuition for veterans?
- Hawaii provides in-state tuition for veterans at University of Hawaii campuses. Contact the OVS for eligibility details.
- What vocational training options exist for veterans in Hawaii?
- GI Bill-funded apprenticeships, VR&E training programs, community college certificate programs, and state workforce development programs are all available in Hawaii. Check apprenticeship.gov for listings.
- How do I transfer GI Bill benefits to my family in Hawaii?
- Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits can be transferred to spouses and children if you had at least 6 years of service and committed to 4 more years at the time of transfer. Contact the VA at 1-888-442-4551 for eligibility.
Related guides in Hawaii
Education in nearby states
Related resources
Recently verified education resources serving Hawaii, ordered by most recent verification.
Hawaii Department of Labor Veterans Services
HIEmployment and training services for Hawaii veterans including job placement and career counseling.