Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)

The Veterans Readiness and Employment Program (previously known as the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program), sometimes referred to as VR&E, Chapter 31 or Voc-Rehab, helps veterans with service-connected disabilities and employment handicaps prepare for, find, and keep suitable jobs. For veterans with service-connected disabilities so severe that they cannot immediately consider work, VR&E offers services to improve their ability to live as independently as possible.If the VA determines that an employment handicap exists as a result of a service-connected disability, you will be entitled to services. You and the VRC will then continue counseling to select a track of services and jointly develop a plan to address your rehabilitation and employment needs.

The rehabilitation plan will specify an employment or independent living goal, identify intermediate goals, outline services and resources needed to achieve these goals. You and the VRC will work together to implement the plan and achieve successful rehabilitation.

Eligibility

Eligibility and entitlement are two different things. You may be eligible for VR&E due to having a service-connected disability rating, yet not be entitled to services. The first step in the VR&E process is to be evaluated to determine if you qualify for services. To receive an evaluation for VR&E services, a veteran must meet the following “eligibility” criteria:

  • Have received, or will receive, a discharge that is other than dishonorable.
  • Have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10%.

How To Apply

Eligible Veterans and Servicemembers may apply for either Veteran Readiness and Employment benefits or for Education/Career Counseling on-line through VA eBenefits website. Our staff of dedicated Admissions and VA Certifying officials can help provide you a smooth and streamlined enrollment. Get started today!

Step 1

Apply Today

Complete the CIAT online application to take your first step to gaining entry approval into CIAT’s Degree or Certificate programs

Step 2

Get Approved

Request a customized Education Plan to present to your VR&E counselor. The more you can be prepared with the right paperwork, the faster your approvals are likely to be.

Step 3

Meet With Your Counselor

Set up a meeting with your VR&E counselor. You will need approval and a PO authorization prior to enrollment.

Step 4

Enroll

Complete your CIAT financial aid consultation, enrollment paperwork, readiness course, and new student orientation.

For Veterans and Servicemembers

You may receive Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) (Formerly known as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment) services to help with job training, employment accommodations, resume development, and job seeking skills coaching. Other services may be provided to assist Veterans and Servicemembers in starting their own businesses or independent living services for those who are severely disabled and unable to work in traditional employment. To learn more about the VR&E program, review the VR&E Process page, and the tabs and links on this page. Click on the “How to Apply” tab to apply for VR&E services.VA’s Education and Career Counseling program is a great opportunity for Veterans and Servicemembers to get personalized counseling and support to help guide their career paths, ensure the most effective use of their VA benefits, and achieve their goals.

For Family Members

If you support a Veteran or Servicemember with a service-connected disability, who faces difficult employment challenges, there may be little left in the household budget for your higher education and career advancement. VA may offer assistance to help you assess your career goals and abilities, find your next job, further your education and skills, and identify places where you can get job training.VA may extend vocational counseling and support to family members on topics including:

  • Education and Career Counseling
  • Readjustment Counseling
  • Career Assessments
  • Benefits for Children with Disabilities (Chapter 18)
  • Dependent Educational Assistance (Chapter 35)
  • Choosing a School


Talk to an Advisor

Request an appointment with one of our IT expert Admissions Advisors for personalized guidance on building your education plan. You’ll be able to book an appointment instantly for a time that fits your schedule. 

Enrollment Deadline - July 24, 2023!

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