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Serving Those Who Served
VETERANS & MILITARY
Lawson State honors your service. We make it easy to use your VA benefits and transition to civilian academic life.
Getting Started
HOW TO ENROLL
Apply to Lawson State
Submit your free admissions application. Under enrollment type, indicate your veteran or active duty status.
Submit VA Documents
Provide your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA, DD-214 (if applicable), and any other benefit-specific documents to the Veterans Services Office.
Meet with a Veterans Advisor
The Veterans Services Office will verify your benefit type, explain your entitlements, and certify your enrollment to the VA each semester.
Register for Classes
Once admitted and certified, register through MyLawson. Notify Veterans Services of any schedule changes — adding or dropping courses affects your VA payments.
GI Bill & VA Benefits
EDUCATION BENEFITS
Lawson State is approved for all VA education benefits. Our Veterans Certifying Official (VCO) processes your VA enrollment each semester.
Post-9/11 GI Bill® (Chapter 33)
Covers tuition and fees in full for qualifying veterans. Also provides a monthly housing allowance and an annual book stipend. Most commonly used benefit at Lawson State.
Montgomery GI Bill® – Active Duty (Chapter 30)
Monthly education benefit paid directly to the veteran while enrolled at least half-time. Amount varies by length of active duty service.
Montgomery GI Bill® – Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)
For members of the National Guard and Reserve who have a 6-year obligation. Benefit paid monthly for qualifying enrollment.
Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (Chapter 35)
For dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled or who died while on active duty. Contact the VA for eligibility details.
Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Chapter 31)
For veterans with service-connected disabilities. VR&E can cover education costs and provide additional support services. Must be approved by the VA.
Hazlewood Act (State Benefit)
Alabama does not offer a Hazlewood-equivalent exemption. Contact the Veterans Services Office for information on Alabama state veteran education benefits.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at va.gov (opens in new tab).
Veteran Support
BUILT FOR VETERANS
Cougar Professional Wear for Veterans
Free professional clothing for veterans attending job interviews or career events. Ask at the Veterans Services Office.
Priority Registration
Qualifying veterans receive priority course registration each semester — register before the general student population.
Veterans Lounge
Dedicated space on the Birmingham Campus where veterans can study, connect with peers, and access resources.
Academic Advising
Veterans have access to dedicated advisors who understand military transcripts, credit for service training (AARTS/SMART), and accelerated pathways.
Counseling Services
Mental health and personal counseling available at no cost to LSCC students. Veterans are encouraged to connect with counselors who understand military service transitions.
Veterans Services Office
205.929.6360 · veterans@lawsonstate.edu · Birmingham & Bessemer Campuses
READY TO BEGIN?
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