Alma College is pleased to announce its participation in the Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program (Yellow Ribbon Program) effective July 1, 2009.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill covers tuition and fees not to exceed the maximum in-state tuition & fees at a public Institution of Higher Learning. The Yellow Ribbon Program will match tuition and fees in excess of the portion funded by the GI Bill which are waived by Alma College.
Yellow Ribbon Eligibility Requirements:
You may be eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program if:
- You served an aggregate period of active duty after September 10, 2001, of at least 36 months;
- You were honorably discharged from active duty for a service connected disability and served 30 continuous days after September 10, 2001;
- You have dependents eligible for Transfer of Entitlement under the Post-9/11 GI Bill based on a veteran’s service under the eligibility criteria listed above;
There is no minimum number of credit hours required for participation and awards will continue in subsequent years in which the student maintains satisfactory progress, conduct and attendance.
Yellow Ribbon Benefits:
Alma College Tuition and Fees $26,068
- Less: Post-9/11 GI Bill ($25,970)
- Less: Alma College Yellow Ribbon Award ($1,500)
Remaining Student Obligation $0.00
** The Yellow Ribbon Program does not include room and board or books and supplies that are provided for separately under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. These benefits will replace merit scholarships awarded at the time of acceptance.
Do I have to be a Michigan resident to receive these funds?
No! Tuition and fees will be covered regardless of your state of residence. Out-of-state veterans will have a larger portion of their funds paid by Alma College as opposed to in-state residents who receive funds from the State of Michigan.
What are the benefits of attending Alma College under the Yellow Ribbon program?
- Free tuition.
- Yellow Ribbon pays for all College fees, and there is also a book allowance of up to $1,000 per year.
- No cap on number of Yellow Ribbon participants.
- Other GI Bill benefits provide funds for living expenses such as room and board.
How do I find out if I'm eligible for the Yellow Ribbon Program?
Please visit the VA's Yellow Ribbon Web site to determine your eligibility.
Can I share or give my Yellow Ribbon educational benefit to my spouse or children?
The Department of Defense is still considering regulations regarding sharing the Yellow Ribbon benefit with dependents. We will update this FAQ on our website as soon as we have received the directive from the Department of Defense.
If I'm not eligible under the Yellow Ribbon program, do I have other benefits under the regular GI Bill?
The Department of Veterans Affairs has complete information on the GI Bill Web site.
What are Alma College's admissions requirements for Yellow Ribbon participants?
The same standards apply for anyone seeking admission to the College. Click here to visit our Admissions Web page.
What steps do I have to complete to apply to Alma College as a Yellow Ribbon participant?
- Review the VA's Yellow Ribbon Web site. This site gives you instructions regarding eligibility and applying for your Certificate of Eligibility through the Department of Veterans Affairs. NOTE: You must start the process by applying for your Certificate of Eligibility through the VA. You may wish to seek assistance from your base Education Specialist, Family Readiness Center or from your VA representative.
- Apply to Alma College and be accepted as a student.
- Once you receive your Certificate of Eligibility from the VA, please fax, email, mail or hand deliver the certificate to:
** Faxes can be sent to (989) 463-7993. Mark them "Attn: Matt Norrod." Email may be sent msnorrod@alma.edu.

