Veterans (VA) Benefits

Applying for VA Benefits

Sonoran University’s ND and MS programs are approved programs of study by the Arizona State Approving Agency (ASAA) for eligible students. Eligibility for VA benefits is determined by the appropriate VA Benefits Office. Students must contact the VA Office and complete the required approval forms to determine eligibility. After the student has completed the process, the student must submit their notice of eligibility and status of benefits to the Registrar’s Office.

Yellow Ribbon Program

Sonoran University is an approved participant in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Yellow Ribbon program. Individuals who qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill^® at the 100% rate may be eligible for this additional funding to help them achieve their educational goals.

The Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program (Yellow Ribbon Program) is a provision of the Post-9/11 GI Bill^® that allows veterans to attend private schools and graduate programs costing more than the annual state tuition cap. Under the program, Sonoran University offers a veterans-only scholarship which the VA will then match. This benefit is offered to a limited number of students on a first-come, first-served basis. Veterans should contact the Registrar’s Office for further information on the benefits and submission of the Yellow Ribbon Program application.

VA Eligibility

VA Benefits are not considered Estimated Financial Assistance when determining eligibility for Title IV aid. Veterans must continue to achieve Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) toward their educational program(s) each term in order to remain eligible for benefits. Sonoran University must report to the VA Office if a student is not making SAP or if there is any change in enrollment status, see Satisfactory Academic Progress for the prescribed program of study.

Students who served on Active Duty may be eligible for education benefits offered by the Department of Veteran Affairs. Students should check their eligibility status and the amount for which they qualify prior to enrolling. For additional information, refer to the Financial Aid page, and Veterans Benefits section on Sonoran University's website.

Please be advised that the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSCMHC) Program does not currently qualify for VA Benefits. We encourage prospective students who are veterans or active military personnel to consult with our admissions team for guidance on available resources and alternative programs that are approved for VA Benefits.

VA Principles of Excellence

Sonoran University has agreed to comply with the Principles of Excellence as issued in Executive Order 13607 and signed on April 27, 2012.

Any individual covered by VA benefits is eligible to attend or participate in courses during the period beginning on the date on which the individual provides Sonoran University a certificate of eligibility for entitlement to educational assistance under Chapter 31 or 33 (a “certificate of eligibility” can also include a “Statement of Benefits” obtained from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) website – eBenefits, or a VAF 28-1905 form for chapter 31 authorization purposes) and ending on the earlier of the following dates:

1. The date on which payment from the VA is made to Sonoran University.
2. Ninety (90) days after the date Sonoran University certified tuition and fees following the receipt of the certificate of eligibility.

Sonoran University will not impose any penalty, including assessment of late fees; the denial of access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities; or the requirement that a covered individual borrow additional funds on any covered individual because of the individual’s inability to meet their financial obligations to the institution due to the delayed disbursement funding from VA under Chapter 31 or 33. For more information see the Military Leave of Absence and the Withdrawal Refund Policy.