VA Form 22-1919: Conflicting Interests Certification (Fillable) – Proprietary (for-profit) schools participating in VA education benefits programs must comply with strict conflict-of-interest rules under U.S. law. VA Form 22-1919, officially titled Conflicting Interests Certification for Proprietary Schools, helps schools certify compliance and maintain approval to enroll veterans and eligible beneficiaries.
This fillable PDF form (revised March 2024, OMB Control No. 2900-0657, expires March 31, 2027) is a required document for many proprietary institutions seeking or maintaining VA program approval.
Why VA Form 22-1919 Matters for Proprietary Schools?
Federal regulations prohibit conflicts of interest that could compromise the integrity of GI Bill® and other VA education benefits. The form addresses two main areas:
- Proprietary Profit Schools Only (Section 1): Under Title 38 U.S.C. 3683, VA and State Approving Agency (SAA) employees cannot own interests in, or receive compensation (wages, salary, dividends, profits, or gifts) from for-profit schools. VA employees also cannot receive services from these schools unless a waiver is granted. Schools must disclose any known associations.
- All Proprietary Schools (Excludes Public Schools – Section 2): Regulations (Title 38 C.F.R. sections like 21.4202(c)) prohibit paying VA education benefits to veterans or eligible persons who are owners, officers, or certifying officials at the school where they are enrolled. Schools must list any such individuals and their details (or enter “none”).
Failing to submit this certification can delay or prevent VA payments to students and risk the school’s approval status.
Who Needs to Complete VA Form 22-1919?
- For-profit (proprietary) schools participating in or applying for VA education programs (GI Bill, VR&E, etc.).
- Schools submitting initial approval applications, renewals, or updates through their State Approving Agency (SAA) or directly to VA (e.g., for foreign programs).
- Public and nonprofit schools are generally exempt or follow different rules (nonprofits may need to provide proof of status).
School presidents, chief administrative officials, or authorized certifying officials typically sign the form.
How to Fill Out and Submit VA Form 22-1919?
The form is straightforward and takes about 10 minutes on average:
- Enter School Information: Provide the full name and address of the institution.
- Section 1 (Profit Schools): List any VA or SAA employees with potential conflicts (name, title, description). Enter “none” if applicable.
- Section 2 (All Proprietary Schools): List any owners, officers, or certifying officials who are veterans receiving VA benefits at your school (name, title, VA file number/SSN, enrollment dates). Enter “none” if none exist.
- Certification: The president or chief administrative official signs, dates, and certifies the information is accurate. Agree to notify VA of any changes immediately.
Download the official fillable form here:
Download VA Form 22-1919 (PDF)
Tip: Many schools submit this and related documents (e.g., VA Form 22-8794 for certifying officials) via the VA Education File Upload Portal or directly to their SAA.
Common Use Cases
- Initial School Approval: Required as part of the application package for VA approval of programs.
- Foreign Schools: Mandatory (except public schools) when applying for program approval abroad.
- Ongoing Compliance: Schools may need to update or resubmit as ownership, staff, or enrollments change.
- Centralized Certification: Often paired with forms like VA Form 22-0831.
Best Practices and Compliance Tips
- Review your staff, ownership, and student records thoroughly before certifying.
- Keep records of your review in case of VA audits or compliance visits.
- Update VA promptly if situations change (e.g., new ownership or a veteran employee enrolls).
- Consult your State Approving Agency for jurisdiction-specific guidance.
- Use the official VA form to avoid processing delays—third-party versions may not be accepted.
For the most current instructions and related resources, visit the official VA pages:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is VA Form 22-1919 required every year?
It is typically submitted with initial applications and as needed for updates or compliance. Check with your SAA for renewal frequency.
What if there are no conflicts?
Simply enter “none” in the relevant sections and certify.
Can I submit it electronically?
Yes—VA encourages electronic submission through approved portals where available.
Where do I send the completed form?
Follow instructions from your SAA or use the VA Education File Upload Portal. Do not send to the OMB email address on the form.
Proprietary schools play a vital role in providing flexible education options for veterans. Completing VA Form 22-1919 correctly ensures continued eligibility for VA benefits payments and helps maintain trust in the system.
For personalized assistance, contact your Education Liaison Representative (ELR) or visit benefits.va.gov/gibill.