Chapter 35 & California College Fee Waiver
Chapter 35 – Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) and the California College Fee Waiver (CalVet Fee Waiver) are separate programs that may help eligible dependents pay for college. Students who qualify for Chapter 35 may also be eligible for the CalVet Fee Waiver, and many students choose to use both benefits together. However, eligibility for the CalVet Fee Waiver does not require eligibility for Chapter 35. Students may qualify for the CalVet Fee Waiver based on the veteran sponsor's status and the requirements established by the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet).
If you believe you may be eligible for either program, the West Valley College Veterans Resource Center (VRC) can help you understand your options, complete the required steps for VA certification, and connect you with your local County Veterans Service Office to apply for or renew the CalVet Fee Waiver.
Chapter 35 (DEA)
Chapter 35 provides a monthly education benefit to eligible spouses and dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability, or who died as a result of military service or a service-connected condition. Students using Chapter 35 must submit a VA Educational Benefits Request Form each semester so the West Valley College Veterans Resource Center School Certifying Official (SCO) can certify their enrollment with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Apply for VA Education Benefits
- Meet with an academic counselor for a 30-minute guidance appointment. Call to schedule at (408) 741-2009 to request an appointment with Jim Winkler.
- Register for classes at West Valley College
- Complete the VA Benefits Request for Certification form
California College Fee Waiver (CalVet)
The CalVet Fee Waiver waives mandatory tuition and enrollment fees for eligible dependents attending California Community Colleges, California State University, and University of California campuses. Students must apply through their local County Veterans Service Office (CVSO) and renew the fee waiver each academic year.
To apply, download an CalVet Application, then go to your local CalVet Veteran Services CVSO Locations. For more information, you can also contact the West Valley College Admissions office or the Veterans Resource Center.
Once you receive your notice of eligibility for Cal Vet, please complete the California Community College Promise Grant Application.
Maximize Your Benefits
If you qualify for both Chapter 35 and the CalVet Fee Waiver, we encourage you to use both benefits. The CalVet Fee Waiver can significantly reduce tuition costs, while your Chapter 35 monthly education benefit can help pay for books, supplies, housing, transportation, and other educational expenses.
We're Here to Help
The West Valley College Veterans Resource Center can:
- Certify your Chapter 35 enrollment with the VA each semester.
- Answer questions about using Chapter 35 benefits at West Valley College.
- Explain how Chapter 35 and the CalVet Fee Waiver work together.
- Connect you with your local County Veterans Service Office to apply for or renew your CalVet Fee Waiver.