One course from completing degree. Do not qualify for MHA. Any update on the rounding out rule?

SSgt Martina Moncada — Wed, 30 Mar 2022 11:51:23 -0400

Veterans last term, only needs 1 course to complete degree. No other course options (electives or otherwise) remaining in degree plan. Veteran will not qualify for MHA. Any options?

Response by SrA John Monette made Mar 30 at 2022 12:08 PM

SrA John Monette — Wed, 30 Mar 2022 12:08:41 -0400

Does your state offer any tuition assistance? In Connecticut, Veterans get their tuition paid by the state if attending a state school. The Veteran is only liable for books, fees, etc.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2022 12:15 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 30 Mar 2022 12:15:10 -0400

Googling this is the latest 29 April 2021.

The Round-Out Rule is not in statute or regulation but is located within in the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs School Certifying Official Handbook.The VA School Certifying Official Handbook is intended for School Certifying Officials and others engaged with the certification of recipients of VA education benefits. The manual is maintained by the three Processing Offices and Education Service and is meant to be the official resource of information for VA School Certifying Officials.Even though the Round-Out Rule has been in place for many years, the VA has wanted to change its course on how they address this issue by redacting the guidance. After a House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs meeting on April 14th, VA Secretary Denis McDonough announced the department will no longer sunset the rule and will allow the practice to continue with modification.

Legislators and education supporters welcomed the decision to not discontinue the Round-Out Rule as an affirmative move in the direction of aiding military-affiliated students obtain the maximum amount of their GI Bill benefits. “Under the new proposal, it appears they’ll be able to continue providing students with ongoing flexibility in their final term but tightening the policies on requirements to bring them in line with the GI Bill’s intent,” said Justin Hauschild, legal fellow for Student Veterans of America. Members of the House Veterans Affairs Committee will continue collaborating with the VA in finding improvements to the GI Bill without damaging veterans’ degree completion plans.