FAQ

Which is the best benefit to use?

There is no “best” benefit. Every benefit is different and every person has a different situation. I encourage you to do research on each benefit before making a choice. To compare benefits, utilize the GI Bill® Comparison Tool.

I’m a veteran or want to use a sponsor’s benefits, what do I need to get started?

There are a couple of benefits a student could be eligible to use and want to discuss these further. Please email a copy of the veteran’s DD-214 (member-4) and veteran’s disability rating letter if applicable to veterans@odessa.edu or visit the OC Veterans Affairs Office in Rm 202B of the Saulsbury Campus Center. 

I don’t have a copy of my DD-214. Where can I get a copy of it?

I applied for benefits and have not heard from the VA. What should I do?

The Regional Office in Muskogee takes a minimum of 30 days to process first-time applications and a Certificate of Eligibility will be mailed to you. If you have not received your COE please call their office at 1-888-442-4551. 

Is my tuition and fees paid for by VA as soon as I register?

No, VA education benefits are not paid out immediately. Tuition and fees are due at the time of registration, always apply for financial aid and set-up a payment plan to avoid being dropped from classes. The only exception is if the student is receiving Ch.33-Post 9/11 benefits at 100% or Ch. 31 Vocational Readiness & Employment and a Certificate of Eligibility is on file to show this.

What is my responsibility as a VA student?

Update any changes such a dropping/adding, complete withdraws, major changes, address/phone number changes within 5 working days to the OC Veterans Affairs Office and the Muskogee Regional Office.

Can I use my GI Bill® for the class(es) at Odessa College to pursue a degree at another college/university?

Yes, you can. Provide a certificate/degree plan from the school you wish to complete the certificate/degree plan. The Veterans Affairs Coordinator will advise accordingly and place you into a plan which closely relates. It is the students’ responsibility to follow-up with the certificate/degree granting instution all classes will transfer over. 

Can I attend two schools at the same time?

Yes, you can. Remember a Parent Institution Letter (degree granting institution) from the VA Certifying Official will be needed for the secondary school (institution providing the classes but not granting the degree) for each semester of enrollment. This must be turned in before the payment deadline. If it is past the deadline, the PIL will need to be turned in withint 24 hours of registering.