The BAH rate (aka MHA rate (Monthly Housing Allowance)) if you are enrolled full-time through the post 9/11 GI Bill at an online college, school or distance learning program is $684 as of 2013. Even though BAH Rates are effective as of January 1st, 2013 the effective date for the adjustment of the MHA received under the Post-9/11 GI Bill is the beginning of the academic year, August 1, 2013. The 2013 BAH Rate for online students is estimated to be 3.8% higher than 2012 or $709.99 (estimate only) effecitve August 1.
How is BAH calculated for online education or distance learning students?
The basic housing allowance for online students is half the national average BAH for an E-5 with dependents.
What if you’re attending part time?
The amount is less if you’re not enrolled full-time but students must be enrolled at least 51% of full-time to be eligible for MHA benefits.
How does the Department of Veterans Affairs calculate part time BAH rates?
The VA will prorate less than full-time enrollment by dividing the hours enrolled by 12 and rounding to the nearest tenth.
What is the BAH Rate if you’re attending online and on-campus classes?
A full-time student taking at least one classroom course will get the full BAH rate based on the zip code of the school.
Is the correct, I have read elsewhere including on government sites that online students get BAH?
Yes, the Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Improvements Act (GI Bill 2.0) made this change effective effective October 1, 2011. Many sites have not updated this information and still inaccurately reflect that online students are not eligible.
Click here for more information on BAH Rates.
