Education · Virginia
Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP)
By the VetUnlocked editorial team · Updated Oct 22, 2026
Virginia waives tuition and mandatory fees at its public colleges for the spouse or child (ages 16 to 29) of a service member who was killed, missing in action or a prisoner of war, or a veteran rated totally and permanently disabled or at least 90% permanently disabled.
totally and permanently disabled or at least 90 percent permanently disabled
Who qualifies: the service member
Under Va. Code § 23.1-608, the service member must have been killed, become missing in action or become a prisoner of war, or be a veteran VA has rated totally and permanently disabled or at least 90 percent permanently disabled, with a discharge under conditions other than dishonorable.
The service member must also meet Virginia's residency test: domicile in Virginia, or physical presence there, for at least five years before the application or death. Some residency rules differ for the surviving parent or spouse.
Who qualifies: the student
- The service member's spouse, or child between the ages of 16 and 29. The Commissioner of Veterans Services can certify older dependents when extenuating circumstances kept them from using the benefit before age 30.
- A stepchild can qualify if the service member claimed them on a tax return or in DEERS while on active duty.
- The student must be admitted to a Virginia public college or university.
What it covers
Tuition and mandatory fees at Virginia public institutions of higher education, for students certified by the Commissioner of Veterans Services. The section sets no limit on semesters or credit hours; the age cutoff is the only time limit it sets.
How to apply
- Get admitted to a Virginia public college or university.
- Apply to the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, whose commissioner certifies eligibility. Its VMSDEP page has the current application.
- Give your school's financial aid or veterans office your certification.
Deadlines and timing
The age limit is the main time limit: children must be 16 to 29, unless the Commissioner certifies an exception. Apply for certification before the term you want covered.
Common mistakes
- Assuming any rating qualifies. The veteran must be rated totally and permanently disabled, or at least 90% permanently disabled.
- Missing the five-year Virginia residency requirement.
- Choosing a private school. The waiver applies at public institutions.
FAQ
What does VMSDEP cover?
Tuition and mandatory fees at Virginia public colleges and universities for eligible spouses and children.
What rating does the veteran need?
VA must rate the veteran totally and permanently disabled or at least 90% permanently disabled. Children and spouses of service members killed, missing in action or held as prisoners of war also qualify.
Is there an age limit for children?
Yes. Children must be 16 to 29, though the Commissioner of Veterans Services can certify older dependents in extenuating circumstances.
Sources
- Code of Virginia, § 23.1-608, https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title23.1/chapter6/section23.1-608/ (fetched Oct 22, 2026)
Eligibility rules and amounts come from the official source and can change. Always confirm there before you apply.