Veterans Services

We are here to help you.  The following are examples of services that can be obtained in the VRC:

• Assistance with the Mendocino College application and registration processes
• Eligibility for priority registration
• Textbook Lending Library
• Evaluation of military transcripts and DD-214s for college credit
• Evaluation of transcripts from other colleges/universities
• Information about VA education benefits
• Assistance Applying for VA education benefits
• Certification of enrollment for education benefits upon request
• Evaluation of educational progress toward degree and certificate programs
• Academic Counseling
• Connection with community resources

You must become a student before receiving all services

• Become a student in six steps
• Schedule an appointment with the School Certifying Official - The School Certifying Official will answer questions about your educational benefit, verify the education plan developed meets VA standards, and submit the certification of your enrollment to the VA so that you can begin receiving your benefit.  Certification of your enrollment to the VA is only completed upon your request.  For an appointment, please email: veterans@mendocino.edu

Evaluation and Credit for Transfer Work:

Upon request, Mendocino College will evaluate and award credit for coursework completed at accredited colleges and universities as well as military experience, completion of CLEP and AP, and for industry credentials.  Review pages 68-72 of the current Mendocino College catalog for additional details.

Graduation Rates for Mendocino College:

The graduation rates for Mendocino College can be reviewed through our College Scorecard on the College Navigator webpage.

Job Placement Rates for Mendocino College:

The placement rates for Mendocino College can be reviewed through the California Community College webpage.

Certification of Enrollment to the VA:

Certification for VA educational benefits each semester is not automatic.  Students who wish to receive the benefit must complete the required paperwork with the School Certifying Official and submit a certification request each semester:

VA Monthly Enrollment Verification:

Students using Post 9/11 Benefits (also called Chapter 33) must verify their enrollment at the end of each month.  Please visit the VA verification webpage for detailed information on this requirement and the steps to complete verification

Isakson & Roe Shopping Sheet

Section 1018 of Public Law 116-315, Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020, requires educational institutions to make certain disclosures to students using federal military and/or VA education benefits. To ensure compliance with the law, we have developed the Shopping Sheet Information for Student Veterans/Veteran’s Dependents.

Financial Aid

Paying for College contains helpful information for calculating the cost of attendance, what types of financial aid exist, and how to apply.

Receiving VA benefits does not prevent you from being eligible for financial aid.

Amounts Covered by VA:

Students using educational benefits are encouraged to review the GI Bill® Comparison Tool.  This tool allows you to determine the current educational benefit pay rate based upon the benefit you will use and the college you attend.  It also offers the option to compare colleges to determine which is the best fit for you.

The following links and information will allow you to determine your estimated VA educational benefits, housing allowance, and book stipends:

• VA GI Bill Comparison tool https://www.va.gov/education/gi-bill-comparison-tool/
• VA Payment Rates https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/resources/benefits_resources/rate_tables.asp
• Monthly Housing Allowance & Monthly Stipend Based on Benefit and Enrollment Pursuit Rate https://www.benefits.va.gov/GIBILL/index.asp

Book Stipend Availability:

Mendocino College offers a lending library for Veterans and Dependents.  The lending library provides access to textbooks, Chromebooks, and scientific calculators.  Items may be checked out for the semester and can be requested through the Veterans Resource Center located room 1240 of MacMillan Hall, Ukiah Campus

Mendocino College Residence for Tuition:

Students actively using Chapter 30, Chapter 31, Chapter 33, or Chapter 35 educational benefits are exempt from paying nonresident tuition regardless of when the Veteran separated from the military.  If you are deemed a non-resident at the time of admission, please complete the Residence Questionnaire and submit proof of current California residence and your Certificate of Eligibility to the Admissions and Records Office.

Estimated Amount of Student Loan Debt Upon Completion of a 2-Year Degree or Certificate:

For many students, borrowing in order to finance their college degree is necessary. While student loans may be a necessary part of financing your degree, it’s important to borrow responsibly. This means only borrowing for what you need. College is an investment in your future.  To review estimated student loan debt upon completion, please review the Mendocino College scorecard.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).  More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

For more information visit www.va.gov or call VA Education 1-888-442-4551.

The following are additional resources that may prove helpful to you as you pursue your education at Mendocino College and use your VA educational benefits:

• California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet)
• Department of Veterans Affairs
• eBenefits
• Lake County Veterans Services
• Post 9/11 GI Bill U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facebook Page
• Mendocino County Veterans Services
• Joint Services Transcripts
• United Veterans Council of Lake County, California
• WEAMS