Enrollment Requirements

For New Veterans and New Chapter 35 Dependents

In order to receive G.I. Bill educational benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs, eligible students must complete the following steps.

1. Call for Appointment at Merced College Veterans Services Desk located in the Admissions & Records Office (209)384-6113:
   • Bring a copy of Discharge Papers (Form DD214)
     • Reservists (Ch 1606) also bring Form DD2384
2. Make appointment with the Veterans Counselor (209) 381-6478
   • During your initial appointment you will:
     • Review Prior College Transcripts (bring copies)
     • Evaluate use of Military Credit for your major (bring transcript)
     • Declare your Major and Develop an Educational Plan
3. Complete Standard Enrollment Process
   You may complete this step at any time. However, in order to assure that the courses you are taking will meet the VA benefit requirements, it is better to do this after seeing the Veterans Counselor.
   • If you enroll before seeing the Veterans Counselor only register for classes required for your major.
   • V.A. does not pay for elective or suggested classes.
4. Bring to Merced College Veterans Services Desk
   • A copy of your Discharge Papers (DD214)
   • A copy of the printout showing class registration
     
     During your first semester you will also complete some additional paperwork at the Veterans Services Desk,
5. Receive first check in 4-8 weeks
   • 6-8 units Half Time Status
   • 9-11 units 3/4 Time Status
   • 12+ units Full Time Status

Consult with Veterans Services if taking fewer than 6 units.

Merced College Veterans Services
Admissions and Records Office
Lesher Student Service Center
3600 M Street
Merced, CA 95348
(209) 384-6113