How to Use VA Benefits

To start using your GI Bill benefits at Loyola, please follow the steps below:

1. Apply for benefits through the VA.
2. Upload your Certification of Eligibility (COE) to the secure upload portal. This document is only needed once.
   • If using Chapter 31, upload a Letter of Approval or Statement of Benefits.
   • If using Chapter 35, include the sponsoring service member’s VA file number (SSN) and full name on the COE.
3. Complete and upload the VA-Request for Enrollment Certification (VA-REC) form and upload to the secure upload portal. Completing this form correctly is essential for processing benefits; failure to do so may delay your payment. This form must be submitted every semester you wish to be certified.
   • If completing the form as a first year student, please contact FSYAdvising@luc.edu for the advisor signature.

Note: We cannot accept physical copies of your COE or VA-REC form nor can we submit them for you. 

You will be responsible for any late fees applied to your account if you do not submit your VREC or contact our office about potential delays to your benefits before the term begins.

Chapter 33: Student Health Insurance is not covered by the VA unless the student has no other insurance (including but not limited to private or VA Healthcare).