11 Military Education Benefits for Service Members

5. Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA, Chapter 35) — For survivors and dependents

Dependents' Educational Assistance, often called DEA, offers education and training benefits to eligible dependents and survivors of certain veterans. Qualifying family members may receive help for degree programs, certificate courses, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training. Eligibility typically hinges on the veteran’s service status or disability, such as a veteran who is permanently and totally disabled due to service, or who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-related condition. DEA provides a set amount of months of entitlement and usually requires formal application to the VA and proper proof of relationship and dependency. If you are a spouse or child checking DEA eligibility, gather documentation such as the veteran’s service records and any VA disability decisions before applying. Also confirm time limits and age eligibility rules for children, as these rules can affect planning. Your school’s veterans office or the VA’s education benefits pages can list required forms and next steps to secure enrollment certification.