Oakton is committed to helping veterans obtain educational benefits through various programs offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC).
Various government regulations require adherence to a strict set of procedures.
Copies of the DD-214 Member 4 must accompany your application if this is the first time you are applying for veterans benefits.
Educational claims are processed through the Department of Veterans Affairs office in St. Louis, Missouri. The DVA will notify you of your benefit entitlement in approximately six to eight weeks. You should begin to receive GI Bill benefits approximately eight to 10 weeks after classes begin.
Benefit entitlement is approved only for those courses required to complete an Oakton degree. Every 30 days, enrollment is checked and changes impacting your eligibility for benefits are reported to the DVA.
Contact the financial aid advisor before making any changes to your schedule or program. The DVA requires that all academic programs be approved before you can receive any VA benefits. After the GI Bill Certification has been submitted, do not make changes during that semester to your program of study.
To change your program of study, complete VA Form 22-1995, Request for Change of Program or Place of Study. Forms are available in the Enrollment Center, Room 1860 (Des Plaines) and Room A100 (Skokie) or on the Department of Veterans Affairs website.
We're here to support you navigate these processes. Reach out to us at:
Oakton Veterans Representatives
Alexis Alvarez
Veterans Certifying Official
847.635.1257
aalvarez@oakton.edu
Elizabeth Gilbert
Veterans Certifying Official
847.635.1712
egilbert@oakton.edu
Tracy Williams
Veterans Certifying Official
847.635.2623
twilliams@oakton.edu
Cecilia Gomez
Academic Advisor
847-376-7654
cgomez@oakton.edu
Brooke Roche
Veterans Academic Advisor
847.635.2626
broche@oakton.edu