HEADQUARTERS AIR FORCE RESERVE TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM OPERATING GUIDE

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HEADQUARTERS AIR FORCE RESERVE

TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

OPERATING GUIDE

POC: HQ AFRC/DPTS

DSN 497-0384/COM 478-327-0384

Authorized and Effective: 1 June 2003

Headquarters Air Force Reserve

Tuition Assistance Program

Operating Guide

GUIDE OVERVIEW:

This guide contains information and guidelines on the Headquarters Air Force Reserve Command (HQ AFRC) Tuition Assistance (TA) Program for use by eligible Air Force Reserve personnel. It is designed as an internal management tool to assist the Wing Education and Training Managers (DPMT), Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) and HQ Air Reserve Personnel Center (ARPC) (for Individual Mobilization Augmentees (IMAs) (DPRPT) in administering the HQ AFRC TA Program.

The following policy directives are utilized as references for this guide: DoD Directive 1322.8, Voluntary Education Programs for Military Personnel, DoD Instruction 1322.25, Voluntary Education Programs, and AFI 36-2306, The Education Services Program.

HQ AFRC, MAJCOM Test Control Officer (TCO), and the Education and Training Support Branch (DPTS), is responsible for updates to this publication. The Chief of Training and Professional Development Division, HQ AFRC/DPT has authorized this publication of HQ AFRC TA Program Operating Guide.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW:

The HQ AFRC TA Program is available to all participating members of the Air Force Reserve (except AGRs who are covered under the Active Duty program). The TA is intended as an educational incentive program for participating selected reserve members. The HQ AFRC TA Program will be used as a tool to recruit and retain members in the US Air Force Reserve.

• Associate/Bachelor Degree (not Certificates). The basic benefit offers 100 percent tuition

reimbursement not to exceed $250.00 per semester hour or $166.67 per quarter hour with a maximum cumulative benefit not to exceed $4,500.00 in one fiscal year.

o Reimbursement for a 3-semester hour course cannot exceed $750.00. o Reimbursement for a 3-quarter hour course cannot exceed $500.01.

• Master Degree (not Certificates). The basic benefit offers 75 percent tuition

reimbursement not to exceed $187.50 per semester hour or $125.00 per quarter hour with a maximum cumulative benefit not to exceed $3,500.00 in one fiscal year.

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TA is an education incentive program, not an entitlement. It will be offered each fiscal year (A fiscal year is defined as 1 Oct – 30 Sep) as long as funding is available. In addition,

enrollments may be stopped when funds are depleted during a fiscal year, and then resumed when additional/new funding is made available. Tuition assistance is paid on a reimbursable basis, after the student successfully completes the course(s) for which TA was requested. TA is subject to disapproval for administrative reason by AFRC/DPTS.

Reimbursable TA eliminates the need to recoup funds from members who fail to maintain their eligibility or fail to successfully complete courses. Tuition Assistance is available to reserve and IMA members for both Distributive Learning and traditional and college courses. The college must be aNational or Regional Accredited Institution and recognized by the U.S.

Department of Education (USDE).

Note: There are colleges and universities that are nationally and regionally accredited, however, some of the courses they teach may not be accredited or recognized by the USDE.

TA is not provided to individuals for courses that do not lead to an associate/bachelor/ master degree, or for courses previously paid for by HQ AFRC TA. In addition, TA is not provided to individuals who are seeking an equivalent degree; exception: Individuals already possessing a degree may receive tuition assistance for courses leading to a Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) Degree, providing the degree is in their current Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC).

ELIGIBILITY:

Members who request TA must meet the following eligibility criteria before application for TA reimbursement can be made:

• Associate and Bachelor Degree Programs: Enlisted (E1-E9) or Officers completing their

bachelor degree must be actively participating and be a member in good standing upon the day when the member completes his/her last course(s). Complete application for TA and sign a Statement of Understanding with servicing wing unit.

• Master Degree programs: Enlisted (E1-E9) and Commissioned Officers (01–06)

members must be actively participating and be a member in good standing upon the day when the member completes his/her last course(s).

o Members must provide a degree plan to their DPMT/DPAT upon the completion of their third TA-funded course or (12 semester/quarter hours or equivalent) or they will no longer be eligible for further TA assistance. All reimbursed courses must be in degree plan on file.

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 Changing degree programs will not be accepted after three (3) completed TA Forms or 12 semester/quarter hours of completed core courses of the degree plan on file. Note: Changing the degree program after 3 completed TA Forms or (12 semesters or quarter hours) will result in a 12 month (1-year)

suspension. Member will be allowed to use TA with the new degree program once the 1- year suspension has expired. NO EXCEPTIONS.

• Commissioned Officers must have a mandatory separation date (MSD) of not less than 24

months of service commitment starting at the end of the last class completed. Commissioned Officers will be required to meet the basic service commitment requirements of 24 months after the end date of the last course (2 years) or HQ AFRC can impose active duty time to be served until obligation service commitment is satisfied.

• DPMT/DPAT, Wing Education and Training DANTES TCO/ATCO, will ensure both

Enlisted and Commissioned Officers are actively participating and in good standing prior to submitting TA enrollment form. Contact Career Enhancement to obtain information on member’s participation.

• TA reimbursement will only be provided for courses that lead to a degree (certificates

do not apply). Members must provide a degree plan to their DPMT/DPRPT kept on file. All reimbursed courses must be in degree plan.

o Prerequisites will be authorized provided a letter is on file from the education

institution stating this course(s) is a requirement/prerequisite for the pursuing degree. Amount of reimbursement will be authorized for degree pursued.

• Undergraduate courses required to enter the Graduate Degree program will be paid at 75

percent reimbursement.

• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

• Individuals will receive reimbursement only for courses successfully completed. Successful

completion is defined as a passing grade that will apply credit toward obtaining a degree. o Associate and Bachelor Degree programs: TA reimbursement is only made if the

student receives a passing grade of “C” or better, “S” for Satisfactory or “P” for Pass where course applies and/or gives credit towards the degree program.

o Master Degree programs: TA Reimbursement will be authorized for grade of “C” or better – NO EXCEPTIONS.

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• Tuition Assistance and Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB-Chapter 30; MGIB-SR-Chapter 1606;

and MGIB-SR Kicker) cannot be used in conjunction for the same courses (Title 38, Chapter 36, Section 3681 of U.S.C.). Use of MGIB benefits and TA for the same course would constitute duplication of benefits. TA and active duty MGIB may be used for the same course under the Top-Up program only.

o Individuals may receive tuition assistance for courses they are not claiming or requesting use of MGIB benefits.

• TA shall be provided only for courses offered by post-secondary institutions accredited by a

national or regional accrediting body recognized by the USDE. If the education institution does not appear in the directory, have the member ask for document proof of accreditation in writing or contact the accrediting body in their region to verify if accreditation exists. The education institution does not qualify if they have applied for accreditation and not yet received authorization of accreditation. The education institution must be National or Regional

accredited. Accrediting bodies can be found at http://www.ed.gov/offices/OPE/

INELIGIBILITY:

Ineligibility would occur if any of the above conditions were not met. Ineligibility would result in denial of tuition assistance reimbursement. Any member not in good standing with the reserve member’s assigned unit will be denied TA. HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO, has the right to deny TA to any reserve member who fails to follow this Operating Guide.

REFUSAL OF TUITION ASSISTANCE:

Refusal of TA would occur if any of the eligibility or application/requirement conditions were not met.

DEPLOYMENT/ACTIVATION:

Any reserve member who gets deployed/activated after TA has been approved will be eligible for active duty TA at the beginning of the next course(s) to be completed - the following apply: 1. Per AFI 36-2306, “Air Force provides TA for: Air Force Reserve personnel on active duty

for periods of more than 179 days will be verified by United States Armed Forces

Identification (ID) Card” or Department of Defense (DoD) Common Access Card (CAC) and orders. Active Duty Education Services Officer (ESO) will verify orders and ID card prior to member submitting for TA benefits. Note: Active Duty TA is for future classes not classes already in session.

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2. Reserve members can elect to complete course(s) in session and receive approved HQ AFRC TA. Active duty TA can be used for classes starting on or after the first day of active duty time if orders are 179 days or more.

3. If reserve member changes, drops or withdraws TA currently approved, member must notify Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO immediately. Original TA form will be corrected by putting a line through the error annotating correction. Form will be faxed to HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO.

4. Individual receiving an incomplete (“I”) grade on a course must attain a passing grade to get reimbursement. Member will notify Wing Education and Training Office DANTES

TCO/ATCO to change completion dates on original form. TA is approved regardless of completion date even if it falls in the next FY funds. Corrected TA form with adjusted end date or course title – NOT BOTH) will be faxed to HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO, with a letter of intent to return back to the reserve unit.

5. In the event active duty (AD) elects to disapprove course(s), a member is currently enrolled due to orders being canceled HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO, will consider processing after-the-fact TA. Each request must be approved by the HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO.

6. TA reimbursement will be authorized for any member actively participating in the TA program deployed or activated and opts to take an “I” for course(s) in session. Each reserve member who takes an “I” due to deployment/activation will voluntarily submit a statement of intent to return to the reserve program. Original copy will be placed in reserve member’s wing education folder. Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO will fax corrected TA form(s) and letter to HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO. HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO will fax form and letter to DANTES.

7. HQ AFRC Training and Professional Development Division web page is available to all Wing Education and Training DANTES TCO/ATCO. Spreadsheet will be annotated “Member Deployed/Activated” for purpose of tracking funds obligated on member.

SPLIT TRAINING OPTION (STO) – TA PRIOR TO ATTENDING FORMAL SCHOOL: Any reserve member who has successfully completed Basic Training and waiting to attend 3-level formal school will be approved to submit TA forms for college courses leading to their filed degree program. Member must be actively participating and meet service obligation of ETS on the graduation date of the last course is completed.

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ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES:

Only after the Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO have verified eligibility will the member complete a DANTES FORM 1562/31 (REVISED 8/02), enrollment form. One form per course is required. IMAs will obtain form from their servicing Education office.

• The member is responsible for ensuring the form is accurately completed, signed, and dated in

Student Certification section. Every section must be completed PRIOR to DPMT/DPRPT assigning a control number and signature of authorized Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO. Note: The cost does not include books or additional fees.

o The Wing Education and Training DANTES TCO/ATCO will sign and date the form as the approving authority and add a (ten-digit) control number to the form. (IMAs will have their servicing Education and Training Office verify all TA forms. HQ ARPC will forward DANTES FORM 1562/31 (REVISED 8/02) to HQ

AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO, after ten-digit control number has been assigned.

 DANTES FORM 1562/31 (REVISED 8/02) is distributed as follows: --- 1 copy to the member

--- 1 copy to HQ AFRC/DPTS (fax to DSN 497-0687)

--- 1 copy to member’s education folder on file at the servicing Wing Education and Training Office

• The Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO will notify member within 5

workdays if their TA has not been approved by HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO. The Wing Education and Training Office will verify status of all approvals/disapprovals on HQ AFRC/DPTS website: https://wwwmil.afrc.af.mil/hq/DP/DPT/default.htmand report any discrepancies to the MAJCOM TCO. The website will provide an explanation for cause of disapproval.

• The member is acknowledges that they are responsible for paying attending

institution the full amount of course tuition costs up front. HQ AFRC TA

reimbursement is deposited directly into the reserve member’s military reserve pay account. Attachment 1, Student TA Benefit Worksheet, may be used by the member to track the amount of tuition assistance received and estimated amount for the fiscal year.

• All paperwork must be completed prior to class start date to be eligible for TA

reimbursement. If registration does not permit you to meet this requirement see your Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO for further instructions. No approval of after-the-fact will be granted for lateness of the student after the course(s) has started - NO EXCEPTIONS WILL BE APPROVED.

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• The member will not be allowed to submit any TA form(s) to the Wing Education and

Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO more than 45 days prior to class start date.

• Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO will create and maintain a log to

identify members who are applying and taking advantage of TA benefits. Log should be for internal management purposes, reporting cancellations and withdraws.

AFTER - THE - FACT TA REQUESTS:

For management purposes, HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO requires that personnel request reimbursable TA before the course begins. This allows HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO, to effectively manage funds. However, HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO will review for possible approval requests (not to include late submissions) after a course has started if a valid reason is warranted for not requesting TA prior to course start date is presented. Individual requesting consideration for after-the-fact will submit justification to assigned Wing Education and Training Office and DANTES TCO/ATCO will forward typed and signed request

(justification) to HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO (FAX DSN: 497-0687, Attention: SMSgt Rebecca M. Delgado). Reimbursement requests will not be approved for courses already completed by the member or because the student did not apply in a timely manner.

REIMBURSEMENT:

Once the member has completed the course(s), it is their responsibility to ensure the school forwards proof of completion to DANTES or his/her servicing Wing Education and Training Office within 30 days. A letter to the attending institution on faxing the grade can be of value, see attachment 6. Grade can be faxed or emailed to members Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO by the student or education institution. The preferred method is to instruct the education institution to email or fax grade to DANTES, see attachment 6. If, HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO receives the grade from the Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO then the email or fax will be forwarded to DANTES for reimbursement.

• DANTES will verify grade that coincides with course(s) submitted on TA Form prior to

class start date. After verification of grade DANTES submits request to DFAS for payment reimbursement. DFAS will reimburse the designated allowable amount by direct deposit to the student’s designated AFRC military pay account.

• If the member is not reimbursed within 60 days of grade submittal, he/she should contact

their respective Wing Education and Training Office first who will then contact HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO.

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o DANTES cannot reimburse payment without official grade. Grade must be an official grade from the attending institution as a direct fax or verification from Wing Education and Training Office. Authorized Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO can verify the information from an official grade transcript or by verifying grade on the institution web site. The Wing Education and Training Office must be present if student is using website to obtain final official grade. Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO can submit grade by fax, or mail. Sample of Grade Verification Letter for USAFR TA Reimbursement is at attachment 3.

o Each member is asked to contact their Wing Education and Training Offices in lieu of contacting DANTES directly to eliminate duplicate calls and avoid stopping the payment process. All student inquiries will go to the Wing Training and Education Office then to HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO to ensure the Wing Education and Training Office documents information pertaining to each student’s inquiries and progress.

o The Wing Education and Training Office has the option to submit grade using one of the following methods:

1. Official grade transcript

2. Education institution website (Wing Education and Training Office must be present if student is using website to obtain final official grade).

3. Grade Certification letter – see attachment 3

• For any questions or concerns, Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO

will contact HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO to assist in resolving, which is preferred.

INDIVIDUAL APPLICANT RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Provide a degree plan to the Wing Education and Training Office upon application for TA. 2. Be actively participating and a member in good standing until completion of the TA

program/benefits.

3. Provide complete and accurate information when applying for tuition assistance and completing required forms.

4. Complete and submit all required paperwork prior to class start date (at least 15 days but no more than 45 days prior).

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5. Ensure grades are submitted within 30 days of class completion. Do not provide any TA forms to your education institution.

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6. Report all incompletes, cancellations, or withdrawals from all course(s) approved for TA immediately to the Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO.

7. Sign a statement of understanding of intent to return to the reserve program in the event of deployment/activation resulting in an “incomplete” for a class that has been approved TA reimbursement.

8. Contact the Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO for all matters concerning tuition assistance reimbursement problems.

DPMT/DPRPT DANTES TCO/ATCO RESPONSIBILITIES

DPMT/DPRPT will be responsible for ensuring applicants meet the eligibility criteria for TA prior to processing applications for TA. Once eligibility has been determined, they will ensure adequate guidance and applications for TA is provided to prospective applicants to complete the application process. Guidance on processing TA applications is covered later in this guide.

1. Advertise and disseminate education information about TA reimbursement benefits (i.e. Flyers, posters, brochures, newsletters, base paper, unit bulletins, commanders' call,

handouts, websites, and member briefings…). See sample, attachment 4, Tuition Assistance Reimbursement flyer which can be used for the purpose of advertising by adding your Wing Education and Training Office information to the bottom of the flyer.

2. Ensure completeness of DANTES FORM 1562/31 (REVISED 8/02) at the Wing Education and Training Office.

3. Create and maintain a student file to contain the following: a. Copy of all initialed and signed student briefings,

b. Copy of all DANTES FORM 1562/31 (REVISED 8/02), requesting TA reimbursement; i) DANTES FORM 1562/31 (REVISED 8/02) must be typed - no forms will be

received handwritten.

ii) Assign unique (10 digit) tracking number to DANTES FORM 1562/31 (REVISED 8/02). This number will be controlled. Call HQ AFRC/DPTS for guidance.

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4. Fax DANTES FORM 1562/31 (REVISED 8/02) to DSN 497-0386, MAJCOM TCO for final approval. Wing Education and Training Office is only responsible for member’s eligibility not approval of funds.

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5. Create and add member to Wing Education and Training Office tracking log. File is used for the purpose of managing and tracking progress of the students and submitted TA forms. As a minimum, the file will contain documents of current degree plan, participation in degree program, signed and initialed briefings, memorandums and grades. The student must provide copy of completed grades to Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO for tracking purpose within 30 days of completion. Failure to provide grades can results in non-reimbursement of TA.

a. The student must verify that the attending institution provided a copy of grade(s) to DANTES for the reimbursement process. Student will provide copy of letter to education institution stating requirements for sending completed course(s) grade, see attachment 6.

b. The Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO have the option to verify grade from original transcript or via the education institution website, complete attachment 3.

c. Payment will be disbursed by DFAS once authorization is provided by DANTES. The normal process time between DANTES and DFAS is six-eight weeks. This time allows for verification of final acceptable grade of course completion to the submitted against the original submitted TA form. Actual reimbursement will be six to eight weeks to deposit in members account once DANTES submits payment amount to DFAS.

d. All, DANTES FORM 1562/31 (REVISED 8/02); TA forms will be typed with the original signatures. Handwritten forms are not legible once faxed.

6. All cancellations and dropped courses will be faxed to HQ AFRC so funds can be

de-obligated. It is the student's responsibility to notify the Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO. Additional requests will not be authorized for new courses if member cannot provide a grade for a course(s) that is longer than 60 days completed. HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO, will take any such delinquent course off

spreadsheet located on the HQ AFRC web site and reallocate funds. DANTES will be notified by HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO of all approved TA forms that will be disapproved for non-payment due to circumstance that does not allow the student to complete the course.

o Wing Education and Training DANTES TCO/ATCO will monitor all entries to verify accurate information. Responsibility will be to notify HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO on any changes to the spreadsheet. Spreadsheet will show DANTES ID number, name, rank, course number and reimbursement authorized for payment, course dates, payment disbursed (in blue) and payment discrepancies (in red).

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7. When member out processes to another unit or to ARPC, folder with contents must be forwarded to the assigned Wing Education and Training DANTES TCO/ATCO.

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HQ AFRC/DPTS ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Ensure adequate funds are provided to DANTES via MIPR to disburse to eligible recipients of tuition assistance.

2. Be the approving authority for TA applications, with notice to student within 5 working days of approval and disapproval of request for reimbursement.

3. Monitor disbursements and total funds spent through the receipt of monthly and quarterly reports provided by DANTES.

4. Provide overall guidance and policy for implementing the HQ AFRC Tuition Assistance Program.

5. Ensure the HQ AFRC Tuition Assistance Program is effectively advertised and publicized by each unit to ensure maximum accessibility and use.

6. Review and approve all requests for after-the-fact TA when the course(s) that is already in session. TA requests will not be approved for after-the-fact for any courses(s) already completed or due to student lateness. Each request will be approved on a one-to-one basis by HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO.

7. Ensure HQ AFRC Education and Training website is current and the latest HQ AFRC TA Program Operating Guide is available.

DANTES ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Accept applications for tuition assistance on DANTES FORM 1562/31 (REVISED 8/02). 2. Maintain a database of all applicants for TA forms to ensure accurate reimbursement is made. 3. Effectively manage HQ AFRC TA funds and notify HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO

prior to exhaustion of funds on hand, or any discrepancies.

4. Disburse tuition assistance funds to eligible members upon satisfactorily completing course(s) for which TA reimbursement was requested. DANTES will verify grade and submit authorization to DFAS for actual reimbursement payment within 6-8 weeks which is considered a reasonable time.

5. Recoup any overpayment of tuition assistance funds made to any member in a single fiscal year.

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6. Provide monthly and quarterly reports of expenditure to HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO.

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CONTACT INFORMATION

DANTES website: http://DANTES.doded.mil/ Mailing address: DANTES Code 20J 6490 Saufley Field Rd Pensacola, FL 32509-5243

POC: Trish Stronko or Jim Rumpler Comm : (850) 452-1085

DSN: 922-1085

email: [email protected]

HQ Air Force Reserve Command website: https://wwwmil.afrc.af.mil/

Mailing address: HQ AFRC/DPTS

1000 Marchbanks Drive, Building 1400 Robins AFB GA 31098-2300

MAJCOM TCO, HQ AFRC/DPTS: MSgt Clayton Miller

Comm: (478) 327- 0384 DSN: 497-0384

TOLL FREE: 1-800-223-1784 Ext 7-0384 email: [email protected]

or Air Reserve Personnel Center

website: http://arpc.afrc.af.mil

Mailing address: HQ ARPC/DPRPT

6760 E. Irvington Pl. #2700 Denver, CO 80280-2700 POC: Ms. Delaina Hull Comm: (303) 676-7891 DSN: 926-6396 FAX: 926-7891

Toll Free: 1-800-525-0102 ext. 71330 email: [email protected]

Chief, Education and Training, HQ AFRC/DPTS: CMSgt (Sel) Mark Brotherton

Comm: (478) 327- 1276 DSN: 497-1276

TOLL FREE: 1-800-223-1784 Ext 7-1276 EMail: [email protected]

Special thanks to the following individuals for use of their program and making this HQ AFRC TA Program Operating Guide for the purpose of managing your internal TA program.

Ella Discoe, Luke AFB, AZ Troy Mills, Robins AFB, GA John Young, Dover AFB, DE J. Lori Stone, Youngstown, OH Delaina Hull, ARPC, Denver, CO Gary Bonus, Selfridge ANGB, MI

Angela Borroum, NAS JRB Fort Worth, TX Gerri Theisen, St Paul ARS - Minneapolis, MN

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STUDENT TUITION ASSISTANCE BENEFIT WORKSHEET This worksheet is designed as a personal record for students and Wing Education and Training DANTES TCO/ATCO to aid in calculating the amount of Tuition Assistance used and a remaining balance. This is for personal financial management purposes only and does not constitute a real or implied balance by HQ AFRC/DPTS.

Undergraduate: TA not to exceed $250.00 per SH or $166.67 per QH with a FY cap of $4,500.00.

Graduate: TA not to exceed $187.50 per SH or $125.00 per QH with FY cap of $3,500.00

Beginning Benefit Total

$3,500 or $4,500

(Circle One) _{(FY Date)}

Tuition Reimbursement (Course Number) -(TA Cost) (Remaining Amount) Tuition Reimbursement (Course Number) -(TA Cost) (Remaining Amount) Tuition Reimbursement (Course Number) -(TA Cost) (Remaining Amount) Tuition Reimbursement (Course Number) -(TA Cost) (Remaining Amount) Tuition Reimbursement (Course Number) -(TA Cost) (Remaining Amount) Tuition Reimbursement (Course Number) -(TA Cost) (Remaining Amount) Tuition Reimbursement (Course Number) -(TA Cost) (Remaining Amount) Tuition Reimbursement (Course Number) -(TA Cost) (Remaining Amount) Tuition Reimbursement (Course Number) -(TA Cost) (Remaining Amount) Tuition Reimbursement (Course Number) -(TA Cost) (Remaining Amount) ATTACHMENT 1

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HQ AFRC TUITION ASSISTANCE (TA) STUDENT BRIEFING SHEET

(This form is a one-time requirement – unless the information changes for a new FY)

The following policies, guidelines, responsibilities and procedures are provided in an effort to streamline and clarify tuition assistance processing. Read the following information, sign at the bottom and turn in with your TA request, DANTES Form 1562/31 (REVISED 8/02).

PROCESSING

-- All forms must be submitted to the Wing Education and Training Office DANTES TCO/ATCO prior to class start date. -- All students are responsible for ensuring their Wing Education and Training DANTES TCO/ATCO receives the completed HQ AFRC TA enrollment form as required above.

-- Identify all other government sources of TA prior to application for AFRC Tuition Assistance with your TCO/ATCO. _______ Members Initials

ELIGIBILITY

-- Must have a degree/diploma plan from school on file by the end date of the 3rd class (12 semester hour or equivalent) requested for TA reimbursement.

-- Must be a participating member of the AFRC in good standing from the beginning of the course to the end of the course. -- Enlisted reserve members must meet the ETS to the end of the last course completed to apply for TA.

-- For Commissioned Officers requesting TA for graduate courses, their Mandatory Separation Date (MSD) must not be less than 24 months from the end of the last course date.

-- TA is not authorized for courses at a lower or lateral level of a degree already attained.

Exception: Courses leading to a CCAF associate degree in the current or primary Air Force Specialty Code is authorized. -- TA is not authorized for repeat or equivalent courses paid for through AFRC TA (MGIB, Kicker etc.).

-- TA cannot be used for the same course in which VA benefits are being used. _______ Members Initials

DOLLAR LIMITATIONS

-- Undergraduate Programs: TA is available at 100 percent of the tuition per semester hour, not to exceed the cap of $250.00 or $166.67 per quarter hour with a cap of $4,500.00 per FY.

-- Graduate Programs: TA is available at 75 percent of the tuition per semester hour, not to exceed $187.50 or $125.00 per quarter hour with a cap of $3,500.00 per FY.

_______ Members Initials

COURSE COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS

-- Student will not be reimbursed tuition assistance for incomplete grades “I” (if not changed to a satisfactory grade after six months), or after receiving failure or withdrawal. Note: You must contact the Wing Education and Training Office if you drop or withdraw from any course where TA has been approved by HQ AFRC/DPTS, MAJCOM TCO.

-- Successful completion of courses is defined, as a minimum grade of “C” is required.

-- Student must ensure school provides grade or other evidence of successful course completion to assigned Wing Education and Training Office and/or DANTES (preferred method) within 30 days. Failure to do so will result in non-payment of TA.

_______ Members Initials

STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING

I ________________________________________ certify that I have read and understand the above information and that all responsible

(Print Member's Name) up-front cost to attending institution is solely my responsibility. In addition, TA reimbursement will not be paid after 60 days if grades are not received by DANTES. (Enlisted Members) My ETS in the Air Force Reserves will fulfill my obligation from my most recent date of application for HQ AFRC Tuition Assistance reimbursement.

(Commissioned Officers) My Mandatory Separation Date (MSD) is not less than 24 months from the course end date of pursuing degree.

I also fully understand that if I should either become an unsatisfactory participant or I am discharged through fault of my own, Tuition Assistance benefits can be immediately ceased or administrative action can occur.

______________________________________ __________ _________________________________________________

Member’s Signature Date Wing Education and Training DANTES TCO/ATCO ATTACHMENT 2

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Grade Verification Letter

FROM: TCO #XXXX – Name of TCO DATE:

_____________

SUBJECT: TA, First & Last Name, SSN, Grade Certification

1. The below information being forwarded to verify member has attended and completed the required course(s) and is eligible for reimbursement:

Branch of Service: Air Force Reserve School Name: ____________University Course Number & Name

ACC 511 Financial Accounting ORG 530 Organizational Behaviors

Grade & Credit: Course Dates:

3 Credit or Quarter Hrs – Grade 3.4 2 Jan 03 – 27 Mar 03 3 Credit or Quarter Hrs – Grade 3.0 2 Jan 03 – 27 Mar 03

2. “I verified the above information is correct and a copy of the Transcript/Grade Report from which the data was taken, has been placed in the member’s education file.”

//Signature// NAME, RANK, USAFR Chief, Education & Training Wing

DSN: ______

Comm.: (XXX) _________

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Tuition Assistance Reimbursement

YOUR G.I. BILL EXPIRED O R

DON’T HAVE ENOUGH TO COVER YOUR TUITION

YOU DO NOT HAVE YOUR CCAF BACHELOR OR MASTER DEGREE?

DON’T BREAK YOUR PIGGY BANK TO PAY FOR YOUR CLASS

USE THE AIR FORCE RESERVE TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

(Apply Before Our Piggy Bank Busts)

REQUIREMENT FOR USING TUITION ASSISTANCE FY 03

1. ENLISTED Members (E1-E9) must have retainability to end of the last class completed and must be actively participating and be a member in good standing.

2. COMMISSIONED Officer’s (01-06) must be actively participating, be a member in good standing and must return 24 months of commitment starting at the end of the last class

completed. Complete application for TA and sign a Statement of Understanding with servicing wing unit.

3. CANNOT have an awarded Master Degree (unless pursuing CCAF in current AFSC).

4. TA cannot be used towards a degree you already hold with the exception of a CCAF degree

except in your current Air Force Specialty Code. (If you have an Associate Degree or any other degree you may not pursue another Associate Degree other than a CCAF Degree)

5. Pays 100 percent after class end date and after completion of class and satisfying grade

requirement outlined in the HQ AFRC TA Operating Guide which is an internal management tool. Maximum of $250.00 per semester hour or $166.67 per quarter hour with a cap of $4,500.00 per year for Associate and Bachelor degree course(s).

6. Pays 75 percent after class end date and after completion of class and satisfying grade

requirement outlined in the HQ AFRC TA Operating Guide. Maximum $187.50 per semester hour or $125.00 per quarter hour with a cap of $3,500.00 per year for the pursuing Master Degree course(s).

7. Cannot use with G.I.Bill for same class.

8. Need a current degree plan by the end date of the third class (12 semester hours or equivalent).

9. Must apply prior to the class starts. Payment will not be disbursed by DFAS until DANTES has

your grade (must be received within 30 days) or non-payment will occur.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CALL OR VISIT THE WING TRAINING OFFICE: Bldg _______ Room _______ Ext __________ Contact: _____________________________

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LETTER FOR DEPLOYED/ACTIVATED RESERVE MEMBERS

MEMORANDUM FOR HQ AFRC/DPTS FROM: Unit

Address

Subject: Letter of Intention – Rank and Name, SSN

1. The purpose of this memorandum is to address the issue of eligibility for the Air Force Reserve Tuition Assistance. I am a reserve member on a ___ year Title 10 Extended Active Duty (EAD) Tour at _____________ AFB, State. Upon completion of this tour, I intend on returning to a reserve unit and meeting the following eligibility requirement for the reserve tuition reimbursement:

a. Mandatory Separation Date (MSD) of two year’s for officers after the graduation date of my last course, or

b. Complete my course grade of “I” (incomplete) within six-months while still assigned to a reserve unit.

2. If you have any questions, contact my Wing Education and Training DANTES

TCO/ATCO at DSN: _______________ or commercial: __________________________.

//Signature//

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GRADE LETTER FOR EDUCATION INSTITUTION TO: Academic Institution DATE:

FROM: HQ ARPC/DPRPT 6760 E Irvington Pl #2700 Denver CO 80280-2700

Subject: Request for Assistance for Air Force Reserve Members To Whom it May Concern,

1. ______________________ is eligible for tuition assistance reimbursement through the DANTES/HQ Air Force Reserve Command Tuition Assistance Program. Reimbursement is dependent upon successful completion of the course(s) attempted.

2. While the student is responsible for initial payment of tuition costs to your institution, he/she needs your assistance to receive reimbursement from DANTES/Headquarters Air Force Reserve Command. In order for the student to be reimbursed, we need you to forward the students grades within 30 days of course completion. Non receipt of grades can result in nonpayment. You may fax, mail or email to 303/676-7891, the address above or

[email protected].

3. You may report these grades by using several methods (include SSN and Air Force Reserve Member on each method): (1) school transcripts or course grade reports, (2) individual letters or memorandums, or (3) typed list of grade information on school letterhead/seal and must be signed and dated by a school official

4. If you need additional information, contact me at 1-800-525-0102, extension 71330. Thank you for your time and assistance.

//signed//

DELAINA HULL

AFR Education Counselor Military Training Branch Directorate of Individual Reserve Programs

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