Student Resources

Maximize your military education benefits and build a high-impact tech career! Our Military Benefits Brief gives you a clear look at how to fund your education and maximize your hard-earned benefits. Check out the recording and presentation resources below to see how CIAT supports our military students from enrollment to job placement.

Presentation Link:

YouTube Link:

Student Support Links:

• Canvas Overview: https://www.ciat.edu/student-resources/canvas-overview 

• Technical Support (CIAT Systems): https://www.ciat.edu/student-resources/technical-support 

• New Student Handbook (Military 2026): https://frontend.ciat.edu/assets/downloads/handbooks/2026-General-Student-Handbook-Military.pdf

• Setting Up Microsoft 365: https://www.ciat.edu/student-resources/setting-up-your-microsoft-365-account 

• Student Portal Overview: https://www.ciat.edu/student-resources/student-portal-overview 

• Student Resources Hub: https://www.ciat.edu/student-resources 

• Self-Service Onboarding: https://www.ciat.edu/student-resources/welcome-to-your-self-service-onboarding 

Hardware & Software Requirements: 

Required: 

• PC Laptop, Notebook, or Desktop 

• USB and Ethernet ports 

• Minimum 100GB free hard drive space 

Not Supported: 

• Macs 

• Chromebooks 

• iPads 

• Tablets 

• Mobile Devices 

Full System Requirements: https://www.ciat.edu/student-resources/system-requirements 

Course Materials / Textbooks: 

Textbook List: https://www.ciat.edu/student-resources/textbook-list 

Book Stipend Information: 

Chapter 31 (VR&E): 

• Purchase your first book out of pocket. 

• Submit your receipt to your VRC for reimbursement. 

Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill): 

• Monthly book stipend issued once certified. 

• Annual cap: $1,000 per year 

Chapter 35 (DEA): 

• Book stipend not applicable. 

Military Housing Allowance (MHA): 

GI Bill Comparison Tool: https://www.va.gov/education/gi-bill-comparison-tool/ 

When Will I Be VA Certified? 

• Your Finance Coordinator will certify you during Week 4 of class. 

• Certification may be delayed if you are at risk of failing (below 74%). 

When Will I Receive My MHA? 

• MHA is typically disbursed within 30 days of certification. 

Course Credit & MHA Impact: 

• 4 Credit Course → Full-Time → 100% MHA 

• 3 Credit Course → ¾-Time → 75% MHA 

Academic Calendar & Breaks: 

• MHA is only paid for days school is in session. 

• You will not be paid during academic breaks or holidays. 

Academic Schedule: https://www.ciat.edu/schedules/ 

VA Education Monthly Verification Process: 

Verification Methods: 

1. Verify enrollment via text message or email from the VA. 

2. If unavailable, call the Education Call Center: 1-888-GIBILL-1 (1-888-442-4551) 

Consequences of Non-Verification: 

• Failing to verify for two consecutive months will result in a hold on payments until verification is completed. 

Need help? Contact the VA Education Call Center if you do not receive a verification text or email. 

Hybrid Students – Important Information: 

Scheduling Your Hybrid Exam: https://www.ciat.edu/student-resources/how-to-schedule-on-campus-exams

How to Get to Campus: 

• Flying: Arrive at San Diego International Airport 

• Transportation: Uber (https://www.uber.com) or Lyft (https://www.lyft.com) 

• Driving Address: 
  401 Mile of Cars Way, Suite 100 
  National City, CA 91950 

Campus Expectations Upon Arrival: 

• Arrive early (parking may be limited). 

• Admittance begins 30 minutes prior to your scheduled exam time. 

• If arriving well in advance, utilize nearby restaurants or surrounding areas to study while waiting. 

• Maintain military standards of conduct and respect. 

What to Bring to Your Final Exam: 

• Valid Driver’s License or Passport 

• Pencils, computers, and paper are provided 

Running Late? 

• Contact your Student Success Advisor immediately. 

• No waitlists or standby options are available. 

Important Notes: 

1. No-Shows: Missing your on-campus final exam will result in receiving the BAH online housing rate for that term. 

2. Consecutive No-Shows: Missing on-campus testing for two consecutive terms will result in being switched from Hybrid to Online status for the remainder of your program. 

3. Failure to attend on-campus requirements without proper communication may impact academic standing and VA benefits eligibility. 

Where to Stay in San Diego: 

Navy Lodge (If eligible – NAVSTA San Diego or NAS North Island) 

• Best option for eligible service members 

• Affordable and located on base 

• Quiet and convenient 

National City: 
Suggestions:  Best Western Plus Marina Gateway Hotel; Holiday Inn Express San Diego South – National City by IHG 

• Closer to campus 

• Budget-friendly  

• Quieter environment 

Mission Valley – Mission Valley: 

• Centrally located 

• Budget-friendly hotel options  

• Convenient freeway access 

Questions?

Connect with one of our expert Admissions Advisors today for personalized guidance.