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Find out how to apply for VA Chapter 36 benefits to get free Veteran educational and career counseling services. You may be eligible if you’re leaving active service soon, if you’ve been discharged within the past year, or if you’re the dependent of a Veteran.
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Educational and career counseling (VA Chapter 36)

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Personalized Career Planning and Guidance (PCPG), or VA Chapter 36, offers free educational and career guidance, planning, and resources to Veterans and their dependents who are eligible for a VA education benefit. Find out how to apply for this program if you’re leaving active service soon or have been discharged within the past year.

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Questions

What benefits can I get?

  • Career counseling to help you decide which civilian or military jobs you want
  • Educational counseling to help you find a training program or field of study
  • Academic and adjustment counseling to help you address issues or barriers that get in the way of your success
  • Resume support and goal planning 

For more information, play our Personalized Career Planning and Guidance video (YouTube)



How do I get these benefits?

There are 3 ways to apply for these benefits:

  • You can apply online, or
  • You can apply by mail using VA Form 28-8832, or
  • You can take your application to your nearest regional office or VetSuccess on Campus counselor

Apply for career counseling

You can also apply by mail

Fill out an Educational/Vocational Counseling Application (VA Form 28-8832).

Get VA Form 28-8832 to download

If you qualify, we’ll invite you to a career and guidance appointment.