Veterans Affairs

The federal government offers a wide variety of services to veterans through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. CT State is committed to improving the resources available for student veterans on our campuses by fostering an encouraging environment to strengthen institutional and individual goals.

Veterans Affairs at CT STate

The Veterans Certifying Official can help eligible students apply for VA (Veterans Administration) benefits. You are advised to apply for veterans benefits as soon as you apply for admission to the College using this information. To be eligible for VA benefits, you must be enrolled in a degree or certificate program. Most credit programs and some non-credit programs offered by the College are eligible for VA benefits. Approved programs can be found at the CT Office of Higher Education. Once you have registered for classes and submitted your request for certification, the College will certify your enrollment to the VA. Your continued certification by the College is contingent upon meeting academic progress guidelines (please see the section below). If you are a student whose Combined Academic Standing indicates suspension you are academically ineligible to receive VA educational benefits.

If you are receiving VA benefits you must complete and submit a Certification/Enrollment Contract to your campus Certifying Official each semester and notify them of any changes in your course load and/or program of study. Courses must meet the requirements of the degree or certificate in which you or your dependent is enrolled.

Veterans Affairs on Your Campus

Choose from the list of campuses above for more information about your local veterans services, including information about Veterans OASIS (Operation Academic Support for Incoming Service Members) Centers, veterans clubs and more.

Asnuntuck Veterans Affairs

CT State Asnuntuck is nationally ranked in the top 20% of veteran-friendly schools!

The Veterans OASIS Center

The Veterans OASIS Center on the Asnuntuck campus is a place solely for veteran students to study, relax, and meet other veteran students. You can use the computers to prepare for classes, watch a movie on the large-screen TV or enjoy a cup of coffee before class. You can participate in programs and services that will help you access supportive veterans' programs through state and Federal agencies to encourage success in the academic setting.

Veterans Task Force

CT State Asnuntuck cares about its veterans. The Task Force comprises faculty, staff and student veterans who want to ensure the needs of our students are being met.

Student Veterans Society

Get involved! Meet and work with other veterans to create programming and events geared toward veteran students. Advocate on behalf of student veterans at the institutional, local, state and national levels.

Capital Veterans Affairs

CT State Capital salutes and supports our veterans and service members. We have been recognized as a Military Friendly School, which honors the top 15% of colleges, universities and trade schools in the country that are doing the most to embrace America’s military service members, veterans and spouses and ensure their success on campus.

Veterans Oasis

Location: Room 424

The Veterans OASIS Center on the Capital campus is a place for veterans to meet each other, receive peer support and learn about VA programs and benefits. It is equipped with computers, a lounge area with TV, Keurig, microwave, refrigerator and comfortable furniture.

Veterans Club

The Veterans Club on the Capital campus is a club for veterans who support each other. Veterans can network, team-build, socialize, fund-raise, provide community service and share experiences. CT State Capital is also a member of the Student Veterans of America (SVA)

Gateway Veterans Affairs

Since 2012, CT State Middlesex (formerly Middlesex Community College) has been recognized as a Military Friendly School, which honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools in the country that are doing the most to embrace America’s military service members, veterans and spouses as students and ensure their success on campus.

Counseling, Advising and Referrals

Veterans can schedule career counseling and advising appointments with the Director of Veterans' Services. The office works closely with faculty advisors and academic counselors to assist students in developing their educational and career plans. Veterans' Services staff can make referrals to partner agencies in the Greater New Haven area to assist veterans with housing, employment, disability claims and compensation.

Veteran Oasis

Location: Room N208

The Veteran Oasis on the Gateway campus is a space designated for veteran students to gather, study and socialize with fellow veteran students. The Oasis has two computers and a study area. Check the office door for opening hours. All veterans are welcome!

Veteran Resource Fairs

Veterans' Services hosts an annual resource fair on campus. The fair brings in community service providers from a variety of areas, including mental health, disability claims and compensation, housing, employment, and other Veteran-specific services.

Veteran and Armed Forces Club

This Student Government Association (SGA) sanctioned club is open to Veterans and non-veteran students. The club meets bi-weekly to plan and organize community events and activities. For more information contact the Veterans' Services office.

Department of Labor (DOL) Veteran Outpost

A DOL Veteran Employment Representative hosts a monthly outpost in the Veterans' Services office. The outpost is designed to connect Veterans with employment opportunities with companies who have identified hiring vets as a priority.

Housatonic Veterans Affairs

CT State Housatonic is committed to supporting our veteran and military-affiliated students in their pursuit of academic success.

Veterans Resource Center (VRC)

Location: Beacon Hall, Room 371
Contact: Christopher LaBrecque, Community Engagement Coordinator, Veteran Student Affairs
Hours of Operation: By Appointment
Phone: 203-332-5087
Email: HO-VetRep@hcc.commnet.edu

Our Veterans Resource Center (VRC) is dedicated to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment, offering a range of services and resources to help veterans thrive both academically and personally.

Services Offered:

Academic Support:
- Academic advising tailored to veterans' unique needs.
- Assistance with GI Bill® benefits and other educational benefits.
- Tutoring and study groups.
Transition Assistance:
- Workshops and seminars on transitioning from military to college life.
- Information on credit transfers for military training and experience.
- Access to career counseling and job placement resources.
Community and Networking:
- and activities for veterans to connect with peers and build a sense of community.
- Opportunities to engage with faculty, staff, and alumni who have military experience.
- Veterans-centric study spaces.
Wellness and Support:
- Mental health resources and counseling services.
- Health and wellness workshops.
- Access to physical fitness facilities.
Financial Assistance by CT State Housatonic's Office of Financial Aid
- Assistance with applying for financial aid and scholarships.
- Information on VA benefits and services.
- Emergency financial assistance for qualified veterans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Who is eligible to use the Veterans Resource Center?

The Veterans Resource Center is open to all veteran and military-affiliated students, including active-duty service members, veterans, and their dependents.

What do I need to bring to receive assistance with my GI Bill® benefits?

Please bring your DD-214 (or equivalent) and any relevant documentation related to your military service to CT State - Housatonic's Office of Financial Aid.

Are there any scholarships available specifically for veterans? - Maybe. Please visit the Financial Aid Office for more information.

Can I use the Veterans Resource Center for studying and accessing resources even if I'm not a veteran?
While the center primarily focuses on serving veterans, it is open to all students. However, priority is given to veterans and military-affiliated individuals.

Manchester Veterans Affairs

CT State Manchester welcomes all veterans, service members and their families. We are committed to your academic success and professional development. This site is dedicated to providing you with the tools and resources to be successful students.

Veterans OASIS

Location: Student Services Center, SSC L101
Phone-Front Desk: 860-512-3362
Phone-Benefits Information/Certification: 860-512-3375

The Veterans OASIS provides a dedicated, supportive space for veterans and military service men and women to network, socialize, study and share, as they integrate into the college experience.

For more information about the OASIS, or to speak with Michelle LaBelle, Manchester’s primary School Certifying Official, regarding the use of your veterans educational benefits, GI Bill®, or Tuition Waiver, please call 860-512-3375 or email michelle.labelle@ctstate.edu.

The OASIS is used by the VETS Club to host its monthly meeting. The VETS Club is governed by Student Activities. For more information about the VETS Club, please also contact Michelle LaBelle or James Gentile (VETS Club faculty advisors).

Middlesex Veterans Affairs

The Veterans OASIS Center at Middlesex

Location: Chapman Hall, Room 715
Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m.-8 p.m. | Friday: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Saturday: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

The Veteran’s OASIS Center is a space on the Middlesex campus that is open to help veterans and military service men and women with their academic studies and create a friendly environment where veterans can interact with each other and integrate into school and society.

The OASIS Center features computers, a study room and an open lounge area where veterans can network, socialize and study.

For additional information, please contact Melissa Michaud at 860-343-5797 or melissa.michaudmaltese@ctstate.edu or Sara Hanson at 860-343-5883 or sara.hanson@ctstate.edu.

Naugatuck Valley Veterans Affairs

Welcome home, service member, and thank you for your courage and dedicated service to our country. Whether you'd like help applying for financial aid, need a quiet place to study, or are looking for an on-campus club to reunite with other veterans, we hope you'll find what you're looking for here.

We are committed to helping you reach your educational and career goals.

Veteran's Oasis

Location: Room S411 (accessed through the Student Center Building on Naugatuck Vallley's Waterbury campus)

The Veteran's OASIS offers a flat-screen TV, four computer stalls, table, sofa and chairs for veteran use, sink and refrigerator. The Oasis is used for numerous veteran functions and as a study area. As of today, over 350 veterans of CT State Naugatuck Valley are grateful to have the OASIS to call their own.

History

The Veterans’ Oasis opened on May 5, 2009 to welcome and serve current and future veterans, a collaboration between the Office of the Governor, the Connecticut Veterans Association, the Chancellors of the State’s public colleges and universities, and NVCC President Daisy Cocco DeFilippis. On February 10, 2011, Naugatuck Valley Community College hosted an Open House to celebrate the renovation and grand opening of the Veterans’ Oasis. This renovation was completed with the generosity of Pilgrim Furniture, Walmart, and numerous local companies that provided their goods and services.

Contact

Johanis Gonzalez, Financial Aid Specialist I, VA Certifying Official
Location: Room K512
Phone: 203-596-2188
Email: jojo.gonzalez2@ctstate.edu

Jim Barrett, Collection Agent, Bursars Chapter 33
Location: Room K508
Phone: 203-596-8624
Email: james.barrett@ctstate.edu

Jian Zhu, Assistant Accountant, Bursars Tuition Assistance
Location: Room K508
Phone: 203-596-8616
Email: jian.zhu@ctstate.edu

Beth Egan, VA Certifying Official
Email: bethanne.egan@ctstate.edu

Justin Slater, VA Certifying Official
Email: justin.slater@ctstate.edu

Northwestern Veterans Affairs

CT State Northwestern is proud to have a large number of students who have valiantly served our country. We welcome them from all branches of the military and admire their dedication to pursuing their post-service dreams.

Veterans’ Oasis

Location: Robert C. White Building

The Veteran's OASIS is a drop-in center for Northwestern veterans and reservists to come together through the common bonds of serving our country. Lending support to one another as you re-enter civilian life at CT State Northwestern.

Norwalk Veterans Affairs

It’s with great pleasure that we welcome you back from your service and congratulate you on wanting to begin or continue your education at CT State Norwalk.

Veterans Lounge

Location: West Campus, Room W120

Veterans Club

The Veterans Club is a CT State Norwalk-affiliated club of like-minded students, whether a veteran or not, who strive for high academic achievement, giving back to the community, and broadening relations with military, veteran, and civilian affairs.

The club is dedicated to actively engaging in various community events to support and honor our military and veteran community. However, while our primary focus is serving our local military and veteran community, we also participate in any event that we believe can make a positive impact. Some of these notable events include Toys for Tots, Wreaths Across America, Fresh Check Day, and numerous initiatives in collaboration with Homes for the Brave.

How to Join

The Veterans Club encourages all students, part-time or full-time, to join our club. Whether you are active military, veteran, know a veteran, or are interested in giving back to the veterans throughout our community, please reach out to Dr. Michele Nye if you are interested in joining.

Quinebaug Valley Veterans Affairs

As a Military Friendly Gold ranked campus, CT State Quinebaug Valley is happy to welcome all veterans, service members and their families. The Veteran Services department is here to help you smoothly transition into a college career and to provide the necessary support and resources for continued success.

Three Rivers Veterans Affairs

As a student at CT State Three Rivers, you are joining a proud contingent of veteran and active military students who have pursued higher education here for over 50 years. Three Rivers, as a member of a community that is home to the Groton Submarine Base and the Coast Guard Academy, has the experience to support you in your successful pursuit of a degree, certificate, or workforce training. You’ll find that many of our professors, staff, and administration are veterans who know the journey you are taking. We’re here to help ensure your success. Welcome!

The Veterans OASIS Center at Three Rivers

Location: Room F203

At the center of veteran life at CT State Three Rivers is the OASIS Center (Operation Academic Support for Incoming Service Members). The OASIS is a place for veterans to socialize, study, receive mentoring, or become mentors to other veterans. The Center also serves as the focal point for veterans' activities and is where student veterans can access services such as academic advising, Veterans Administration benefits and counseling.

Veterans Organization Membership

Veterans Organization membership is free and is not exclusive to veterans only. Any person who has a vested interest in meeting the needs of veterans is encouraged to join. For more information about the Veterans Organization, please contact Andrew Cullan at 860-215-9229.

Tunxis Veterans Affairs

Welcoming all veterans and military service members to our Tunxis OASIS community.

Please join us for camaraderie, coffee, conversation and college success.

Location: Founders Hall
The Veterans’ OASIS (Operation Academic Support for Incoming Servicemembers) is the place on campus for student veterans to connect with each other while working to achieve their educational goals. Established in 2009, the OASIS has turned into a community for student veterans. “It is a place to surround myself with people who get me, it’s more like a family,” says a student. The OASIS thrives on community support and donations. Karen DeBari, Veterans’ Mentor, has established the Tunxis OASIS as an outstanding example for community colleges in how they support servicemen and women transitioning from military service to civilian life.

From the busy calendar of events, to the wall of remembrance, to the laughter spilling over the walls, the OASIS reflects the unique population it serves. The OASIS is filled with the camaraderie and shared experiences of the veterans and servicemembers who meet there. The relaxed atmosphere allows for student veterans to feel at home in a place that respects their military service. The OASIS staff helps veterans navigate the college system, connect with outside veteran services and organize social events that bring our veterans together on and off campus.

Take a Virtual Tour of the OASIS Center

Additional Information for Veterans

Policy Protecting Students from Fees and Penalties Due to VA Payment Delay

By Title 38 US Code 3679 subsection (e), this school adopts the following additional provisions for any students using U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Post 9/11 G.I. Bill® (Ch. 33) or Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (Ch. 31) benefits, while payment to the institution is pending from the VA. This school will not:

Prevent the students' enrollment; Assess a late penalty fee;
Require students secure alternative or additional funding;
Deny their access to any resources (access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities) available to other students who have satisfied their tuition and fee bills to the institution.

However, to qualify for this provision, such students may be required to:

Provide Chapter 33 Certificate of Eligibility (or its equivalent) or for Chapter 31, VA VR&E’s contract with the school on VA Form 28-1905 by the first day of class.
Note: Chapter 33 students can register at the VA Regional Office to use E-Benefits to get the equivalent of a Chapter 33 Certificate of Eligibility. Chapter 31 students cannot get a completed VA Form 28-1905 (or any equivalent) before the VA VR&E (The Veteran Readiness and Employment) case manager issues it to the school.
Provide written request to be certified;
Provide additional information needed to properly certify the enrollment as described in other institutional policies

In addition, the VA GI Bill Comparison Tool will identify schools that have additional requirements.

Academic Progress (AP)

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) regulations require that all students receiving VA educational benefits meet the College’s academic standing policy as stated in the CT State college catalog. Students who are suspended for failing to meet the College’s academic standing policy will be reported to the VA. Students may appeal their academic suspension in accordance with CT State policy (Please see the “Academic Suspension” section of the handbook). Should the appeal be successful, the student’s enrollment will be reported retroactively to VA for the enrollment period to which the appeal applies.

Veterans Tuition Waiver

A waiver of general fund tuition is extended to all eligible Connecticut Veterans with service during certain wartime periods. Members of the Connecticut National Guard may also be eligible for waivers of tuition.

To be eligible for a tuition waiver, veterans must:

be honorably discharged or released under honorable conditions for active service in the U.S. Armed Forces (U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard). National Guard members, activated under Title 10 of the United States Code, also are included.
have served at least 90 or more cumulative days active duty in time of war (please see Periods of Service below), except if separated from service earlier because of a federal Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) rated service-connected disability; or the war, campaign, or operation lasted less than 90 days and service was for the duration.
be accepted for admission at CT State.
be domiciled in Connecticut at the time of acceptance, which includes domicile for less than one year.

Veterans must submit their DD-214 (Discharge Papers) to their campus Certifying Official. Tuition waivers are not provided for summer sessions, winter intersessions, or credit-free courses.

Periods of Service

Only those who served in the following manner may qualify:

Active duty for at least 90 days during:
World War II Dec. 7, 1941 – Dec. 31, 1946
Korean Conflict June 27, 1950 – Jan. 31, 1955
Vietnam Era Feb. 28, 1961 – July 1, 1975
Persian Gulf War Aug. 2, 1990 – Until an ending date prescribed by Presidential proclamation or by law (no end date at this time). All military war service subsequent to August 2, 1990, is covered, including but not limited to, Enduring Freedom, Noble Eagle, Iraqi Freedom, Somalia, and Bosnia.
Engaged in combat or in a combat support role in:
Lebanon July 1, 1958 – Nov. 1, 1958, or Sept. 29, 1982 – March 30, 1984
Grenada Oct. 25, 1983 – Dec. 15, 1983
Operation Earnest Will July 24, 1987 – Aug. 1, 1990 (escort of Kuwaiti oil tankers flying the U.S. flag in the Persian Gulf)
Panama Dec. 20, 1989 – Jan. 31, 1990
Reservists must be mobilized in times of war for other than training purposes.

Connecticut National Guard Tuition Assistance

CT National Guard members will need to file an application with their unit before the beginning of each semester. The Certificate of Eligibility that is issued by the CT National Guard must be on file with the campus Certifying Official before the registration process can be completed. Tuition waivers are not provided for summer sessions, winter intersessions, or credit-free courses.

Dependent Children/Surviving Spouse Waivers

State statutes also provide that tuition at Connecticut public colleges and universities may be waived for:

any Connecticut resident who is a dependent child or a surviving spouse of a member of the Armed Forces killed in action on or after September 11, 2001, who was a Connecticut resident; and
state residents who are dependent children of a person whom the Armed Forces have declared to be either missing in action or a prisoner of war while serving in the Armed Forces after January 1, 1960.

Courses Subject to Waiver

Tuition waivers are for credit courses during the spring and fall semesters ONLY and are not provided for summer sessions, winter intersessions, or continuing education/credit-free courses.

Expenses Not Covered

College costs other than tuition - such as for books, student activity, course fees, and parking - are not waived. Waivers may also be reduced by the amount of education reimbursement you may receive from your employer.

Principles of Excellence

CT State adheres to the principles outlined in the Principles of Excellence executive order.

Provide students with a personalized form covering the total cost of an education program.
Provide educational plans for all military and veteran education beneficiaries.
End fraudulent and aggressive recruiting techniques and misrepresentation.
Provide accommodations for service members and reservists absent due to service requirements.
Designate a point of contact for academic and financial advising.
Ensure accreditation of all new programs prior to enrolling students.
Align institutional refund policies with those under Title IV.

Foreign schools, high schools, on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs, residency and internship programs, and those who do not charge tuition and fees were not asked to comply with the Principles of Excellence.

The VA's Comparison tool will let you see if the school you are interested in attending participates in the Principles of Excellence program.

Veterans OASIS (Operation Academic Support for Incoming Service Members)

CT State is dedicated to supporting our military community with its transition from service members to students. Each CT state campus provides a safe space specifically for veterans to study, relax and build comradery with other student veterans. Campuses also offer information on how to access Veteran Administration benefits for all who are eligible.

Additional information about OASIS centers is available in the "Veterans Affairs on Your Campus" section of this page.

For more information, please contact Beth Egan
at 860-253-3023 or bethanne.egan@ctstate.edu.

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 Web site.