Military Benefits VR&E

Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E)

What is the VR&E Program?

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.

Am I Eligible for VR&E Benefits?

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 for the VR&E Program

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 with a smooth and streamlined enrollment.

1) Apply Today

Complete our easy online application for the CIAT degree or certificate program of your choice.

2) Get Approved

Request a customized Education Plan to present to your VR&E counselor. Having the proper paperwork prepared will help to expedite the approval process.

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.

4) Enroll

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

VR&E Program Benefits 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 VR&E benefits for veterans and servicemembers include:

  • Support for starting your own business or entrepreneurship

  • Independent living services if severely disabled and unable to work

  • Tax-free vr&e stipend or subsistence allowance during your program

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.

VR&E Benefits for Family Members

As a family member supporting a veteran or servicemember with a service-connected disability facing employment challenges, affording your own higher education and career advancement can be difficult.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:

VR&E FAQs

Eligibility means meeting basic requirements like having a service-connected disability rating. Entitlement means the VA has determined you have an employment handicap from your disability, making you eligible for VR&E services.

There is no set time limit, but you must make satisfactory progress toward meeting the goals in your rehabilitation plan, which is reviewed annually.

Yes, the VR&E program allows and provides support for online and remote education options as part of an approved rehabilitation plan.

You can request to have your VR&E case temporarily interrupted and reopened later. However, extended periods of non-participation may require re-evaluating your entitlement.

No, the VR&E program provides a reduced subsistence allowance for part-time students based on their rate of attendance.

Have more questions? Reach out today and admissions advisor will answer any other questions you have!

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California Institute of Applied Technology has shared ownership and management of two distinct institutions. California Institute of Applied Technology located in California, and California Institute of Applied Technology located in New Mexico.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill. CIAT is approved to offer VA benefits. *Financial aid is available for those who qualify. *Students are encouraged to take certification exams while actively enrolled in their Certificate or Degree program. Unlimited certification exam attempts expire 180 days after graduation. Select exams are not eligible for unlimited retakes - see certification exam policy for details. Certifications or courses may change to address industry trends or improve quality