Getting Benefits Started
Here's How It Works
If you are active military, a veteran or a dependent/survivor and have not used VA educational benefits before at any institution of higher education, this is where you start.
If you're not sure which benefit you're eligible for or have any other questions about VA benefits, eligibility or processing timelines, feel free to contact us at 352-395-5505.
Apply for benefits:
1. Locate your supporting document(s).
| VA Benefit Type | Supporting Document |
| Military Members except 1606 | DD-214 Military Discharge Document |
| Chapter 1606* | DD-2384 NOBE (Notice of Basic Eligibility) |
| Dependents/Survivors | Award Letter, Proof of dependency |
*All active duty service members are required to speak with their Educational Service Officer or military counselor to receive approval before enrolling at SF. SF admissions and financial aid counselors are also available to answer any questions you might have.
2. Submit your application and documents directly to the VA using one of these methods.
- Online with VA.gov (easy to do and fastest processing)
- Mail to: Department of Veterans Affairs, PO Box 8888, Muskogee, OK 74402-8888
3. Choose and complete your qualifying benefit.
| VA Benefit Type | VA Application |
| Chapter 30, 33, 1606 | Form 22-1990 |
| Chapter 33 TOE (Transfer of Entitlement) | Form 22-1990E |
| Chapter 35 | Form 22-5490 |
| Chapter 31 | Eligibility/Application determined by DVA |
4. Once submitted, print the Confirmation Code (online applications only) for yours and our records.
Next, apply to Santa Fe College.
You can apply to SF and use your VA benefits as a freshman, transfer or transient student before receiving your Certificate of Eligibility from the VA.
If you have questions about applying to SF or how SF resources and the Veterans Services staff can help you succeed, please contact us at 352-395-5505.
Once you've been admitted to SF, go to steps for Newly Admitted Students to start your benefits file with Veterans and Military Success Services.