VA Form 22-1995: Change Program or School (2025 Guide)

VA Form 22-1995: Change Program or School (2025 Guide) – VA Form 22-1995: Request for Change of Program or Place of Training is a key document for veterans, service members, and eligible dependents using VA education benefits like the Post-9/11 GI Bill who need to switch schools, programs, or make other adjustments to their benefits.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the form, including eligibility, how to complete it, submission options, and tips for a smooth process. Whether you’re transferring to a new college or changing your degree program, understanding VA Form 22-1995 helps you maintain continuous education benefits.

What Is VA Form 22-1995?

VA Form 22-1995, officially titled Request for Change of Program or Place of Training, allows eligible individuals to request updates to their VA education benefits. The form was revised in September 2024 and now combines previous separate forms for veterans and dependents.

It is primarily used by those already receiving benefits under programs such as:

  • Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
  • Montgomery GI Bill – Active Duty (Chapter 30)
  • Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)
  • Other qualifying programs, including certain transferred benefits or Fry Scholarship/DEA for dependents.

Download the latest VA Form 22-1995 here: Download VA Form 22-1995 PDF

Who Should Use VA Form 22-1995?

You should submit this form if you are a:

  • Veteran or service member currently using VA education benefits, or
  • Dependent using Fry Scholarship, Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA/Chapter 35), or transferred Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.

Common scenarios include:

  • Changing to a new school or training facility
  • Switching your educational, professional, or vocational program/goal
  • Re-entering the same program after a break due to unsatisfactory attendance, progress, or conduct
  • Transitioning from veteran status benefits to receiving benefits while on active duty.

Note: This is now the primary form for most change requests following the combination with VA Form 22-5495.

When Do You Need to Submit VA Form 22-1995?

Submit the form before starting at a new school or beginning a new program to avoid interruptions in payments. It is especially important if:

  • You last received an education decision before August 15, 2018 (for Rudisill-related reviews)
  • You want to switch benefits or request a new Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
  • Your enrollment has lapsed for a significant period.

For Post-9/11 GI Bill users, the online tool often handles many updates efficiently.

How to Fill Out VA Form 22-1995: Step-by-Step Guide?

The form is straightforward and divided into clear sections. Gather your:

  • Social Security number or VA file number
  • Current and new school details
  • Benefit information
  • Direct deposit details (recommended)
  • Military service records if needed.

Key Sections Include:

  • Part I: Personal identification, contact info, and VA file number.
  • Part II: Benefit type, training method (e.g., school attendance, apprenticeship, flight training), new and previous school details, program name, and reason for stopping prior training.
  • Part III: Direct deposit information (strongly encouraged for faster payments).
  • Part IV: Miscellaneous info (dependents for pre-1977 service, other benefits, remarks).
  • Part V: Certification and signature.

Tips for Completion:

  • Be accurate and complete all relevant fields.
  • Provide clear reasons for changes in remarks if needed.
  • Attach supporting documents like DD-214 copies if reporting new service periods.
  • Opt-out of information sharing with schools if preferred (via related processes).

Many prefer the online application for guided prompts and faster processing: VA Online Change Request.

How to Submit VA Form 22-1995?

Preferred Method: Online — Use the VA’s online tool for quickest processing.

By Mail:

  • Send to the appropriate VA Regional Processing Office based on your new school’s location (Eastern or Western Region) or your home address.
  • Find addresses on the form or VA resources.

Additional Steps:

  1. Notify your new school’s Veterans Certifying Official so they can submit enrollment certification (VA Form 22-1999 or electronic equivalent).
  2. Wait for VA approval and a new COE if applicable.
  3. Coordinate with both old and new schools for smooth transition.

Processing times vary but can take several weeks depending on volume. Follow up via VA channels if needed.

Common Reasons for Using the Form and Potential Impacts

  • School Changes: Ensures benefits transfer without gap.
  • Program Changes: Allows pursuit of new goals (e.g., from bachelor’s to a certification program).
  • Rudisill Decision: May unlock up to 48 months of combined benefits for eligible veterans with multiple qualifying service periods.

Always check your Statement of Benefits or contact VA for entitlement questions.

Tips for a Successful Submission

  • Submit early — ideally before the new term starts.
  • Keep copies of everything.
  • Update direct deposit information to avoid payment delays.
  • Contact VA at 1-888-GI-BILL-1 (1-888-442-4551) or use online chat for assistance.
  • Work with a School Certifying Official or accredited representative if complex.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can dependents use VA Form 22-1995?
Yes, it now covers many dependent scenarios previously handled by 22-5495.

Is the form still required for all changes?
For many Post-9/11 updates, online tools or school certifications may suffice, but 22-1995 is the standard for formal program/school changes and COE updates.

What if I need help filling it out?
Reach out to VA counselors, your school’s VA office, or accredited VSO representatives.

For the most current information, visit the official VA page: VA Form 22-1995 Overview.

Download VA Form 22-1995: Get the PDF Here