The Army Reserve offers a range of education benefits to its soldiers, designed to help them achieve their educational and career goals. These benefits are an essential part of the Army Reserve's commitment to supporting the personal and professional development of its members. In this article, we will explore the various education benefits available to Army Reserve soldiers, including the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR), the Army Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP), and the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
One of the primary education benefits available to Army Reserve soldiers is the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR). This benefit provides up to 36 months of education benefits, which can be used to pursue a degree or certificate program at a college, university, or vocational school. The MGIB-SR pays a monthly stipend of up to $384, which can be used to cover tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses. To be eligible for the MGIB-SR, soldiers must have a six-year contract with the Army Reserve, be in good standing, and have completed their initial entry training.
Key Points
- The Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) provides up to 36 months of education benefits
- The Army Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP) provides up to 36 months of education benefits for soldiers who have served on active duty
- The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides up to 36 months of education benefits for soldiers who have served on active duty after September 10, 2001
- Soldiers must have a six-year contract with the Army Reserve to be eligible for the MGIB-SR
- The MGIB-SR pays a monthly stipend of up to $384
Army Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP)

The Army Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP) is another education benefit available to Army Reserve soldiers. REAP provides up to 36 months of education benefits for soldiers who have served on active duty, either in the Army Reserve or on active duty in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard. The REAP benefit pays a monthly stipend of up to $897, which can be used to cover tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses. To be eligible for REAP, soldiers must have served on active duty for at least 90 consecutive days after September 10, 2001, and be in good standing with the Army Reserve.
Post-9⁄11 GI Bill
The Post-9⁄11 GI Bill is a more comprehensive education benefit that provides up to 36 months of education benefits for soldiers who have served on active duty after September 10, 2001. The Post-9⁄11 GI Bill pays a monthly stipend of up to $1,920, which can be used to cover tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses. The benefit also includes a housing stipend and a book stipend, which can be used to cover living expenses and textbook costs. To be eligible for the Post-9⁄11 GI Bill, soldiers must have served on active duty for at least 90 consecutive days after September 10, 2001, and be in good standing with the Army Reserve.
Education Benefit | Monthly Stipend | Duration |
---|---|---|
MGIB-SR | up to $384 | up to 36 months |
REAP | up to $897 | up to 36 months |
Post-9/11 GI Bill | up to $1,920 | up to 36 months |

Applying for Education Benefits

To apply for education benefits, Army Reserve soldiers must submit an application to the Veterans Administration (VA). The application process typically involves completing a VA Form 22-1990, which can be downloaded from the VA website or obtained from a VA regional office. Soldiers must also provide documentation of their military service, including their DD Form 214, and proof of enrollment in a degree or certificate program at a college, university, or vocational school.
Education Benefits for Dependents
The Army Reserve also offers education benefits for dependents of soldiers, including spouses and children. The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program provides up to 45 months of education benefits for dependents of soldiers who have died or are permanently disabled as a result of their military service. The DEA benefit pays a monthly stipend of up to $1,224, which can be used to cover tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses.
What is the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)?
+The Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) is an education benefit that provides up to 36 months of education benefits for Army Reserve soldiers who have a six-year contract with the Army Reserve and have completed their initial entry training.
How do I apply for education benefits?
+To apply for education benefits, Army Reserve soldiers must submit an application to the Veterans Administration (VA) using VA Form 22-1990, and provide documentation of their military service and proof of enrollment in a degree or certificate program.
Can I use my education benefits for online or distance learning programs?
+Yes, Army Reserve soldiers can use their education benefits for online or distance learning programs, as long as the program is approved by the VA and the soldier is enrolled in a degree or certificate program.
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