Nearly six million Americans have served in the military since the 9/11 attacks:
2.8 million of them are still serving
3.2 million are civilians as of early 2013.
Some of those civilian veterans are in college, at home raising children, or retired. Many, though, are trying to find jobs.
In 2012’s sluggish economy, 9.9 percent of post–9/11 veterans were unemployed. That compared to 7.9 percent of non-veteran workers. Unemployment among vets is elevated among the young. One great advantage veterans have today is a G.I. Bill with richer education benefits than ever provided before.
Federal money is complemented by matching funds from many private colleges and from private donors. As a result, nearly all veterans can now afford college tuition, occupational training and certification courses, or graduate instruction. Any remaining barriers are less economic than social.
However, there are gaps in what is covered.
Depending on the state, veterans may have a hard time getting funding to take non-degree programs in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields that can lead to high-paying jobs. In addition, the payment amount varies depending on the GI Bill program a veteran is utilizing. Payment amounts are made quarterly after Veterans Administration receives certification of courses completed from the school.