**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 38**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 May 26, 2005**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Page 4-i:** Remove this page and substitute page 4-i attached.

**Pages 4-3 and 4-4:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 4-3 and
4‑4 attached.

Paragraph 4.02 is updated to clarify delimiting date extensions based on
recent General Council staff interpretations. Rather than getting an
extension of a current delimiting date, a service member is now granted
a completely new delimiting period ONCE RELEASED FROM ACTIVE DUTY. This
affects eligibility when a person returns to active duty after the
expiration of their original delimiting date.

The NOTE in paragraph 4.03 is deleted. Only certain chapter 35 spouses
have no delimiting date as determined by the CAVC Ozer decision.

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new material.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

JACK McCOY

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 37**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 August 31, 2004**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages iii and iv:** Remove these pages and substitute pages iii and iv
attached.

**Pages 11-A-1 and 11-A-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-A-1 and 11-A-2 attached. This change adds the October 1, 2004,
subsistence and assistance allowance rates for the Educational
Assistance Test Program (section 901 of Public Law 96-342).

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new and revised material.

**RESCISSION**: M22-4, part III, change 36.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Jack McCoy

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 36**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 August 20, 2003**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages iii and iv:** Remove these pages and substitute pages iii and iv
attached.

**Pages 11-A-1 and 11-A-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-A-1 and 11-A-2 attached. This change adds the October 1, 2002 and the
October 1, 2003, subsistence and assistance allowance rates for the
Educational Assistance Test Program (section 901 of Public Law 96-342).

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new and revised material.

**RESCISSION**: M22-4, part III, change 31.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Judith A. Caden

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 35**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 April 3, 2002**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 1-i, 1-ii and 1-iii:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
1-i and 1‑ii attached.

**Pages 1-1 through 1-4:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 1-1
through 1-4 and 1‑4a attached.

Paragraph 1.01 is updated. RPOs have the option of consolidating the
chapter 32 refund function for claimants within their jurisdiction. As
of October 1, 2000, chapter 30 CEST processing no longer establishes a
chapter 30 folder in BIRLS but instead establishes an EDU (Education)
folder.

Paragraph 1.02 is revised to include new jurisdiction rules for
licensing and certification claims and Tuition Assistance Top-Up claims.

Paragraph 1.03 is revised to clarify that the Manila RO will process
only chapter 35 claims if the school is in the Philippines.

Subparagraphs 1.04a and b are revised to show updated permanent transfer
procedures.

Figures 1.01 and 1.02 are updated to reflect changes in jurisdiction.
The jurisdiction for Arkansas is changed to Muskogee effective April 1,
2002. The jurisdiction for Louisiana is scheduled to be changed to
Muskogee effective July, 1, 2002.

Brackets \[ \] are used to identify new or revised material.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

JUDITH A. CADEN

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 34**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 December 17, 2001**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Page 7-i:** Remove this page and substitute page 7-i attached.

**Pages 7-1 through 7-8:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 7-1
through 7-8 attached.

Paragraphs 7.01 and 7.02 are revised for consistency with the
regulations.

Figure 7.01 is updated to include preparatory courses, licensing and
certification tests, and Tuition Assistance Top-Up. This figure remains
organized in alphabetical order. Previous footnotes 2 and 5 had
references to Selected Reservists\' having to make a 6‑year commitment
to the Selected Reserve after September 30, 1990. These references are
deleted. Previous footnote #3 is renumbered as footnote #2. Previous
footnote #4 is renumbered as footnote #3.

References to Adjudication have been updated to the Education Division.
References to Adjudicators has been updated to claim examiners.
References to Selected Reservists\' having to make a 6-year commitment
to the Selected Reserve after September 30, 1990 are deleted. The last
Selected Reserve member who would have had eligibility without having a
6-year commitment after September 30, 1990 would have had a delimiting
date of September 30, 2000. All currently eligible Selected Reserve
members meet this criterion.

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new and revised material.
Exceptions are made for minor editorial changes and revised footnotes
within figure 7.01. Brackets are not used within figure 7.01 due to
space limitations.

By Direction of the Acting Under Secretary for Benefits

WILLIAM D. FILLMAN, JR.

Acting Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 33**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 September 28, 2001**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages iii and iv:** Remove these pages and substitute pages iii and iv
attached.

**Page 6-i:** Remove this page and substitute page 6-i attached.

**Pages 6-1 through 6-8:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 6-1
through 6-9 attached.

Paragraph 6.01 is amended to show a basic principle that a claimant must
be enrolled in a program of education at all times in order to receive
VA education benefits, with the exception of individuals using Section
901 and the chapter 30 program referred to as TAT (Tuition Assistance
Top-Up).

Paragraph 6.01 and all other references to programs of education are
updated to reflect that individuals using TAT need not be enrolled in a
program of education. Additionally, course approval is not an issue for
TAT courses.

Paragraph 6.02 is updated to include licensing and certification tests
in the definition of a \"program of education.\"

Paragraph 6.04 is updated to indicate that it primarily contains
background information for claim examiners.

Paragraph 6.05 is updated. Subparagraphs c, d, and e contained obsolete
information and are reserved for future use. Subparagraph f is updated
to reflect OLAF changes.

Editorial changes are made throughout the change to show updated
information (such as replacing the Adjudication Division with the
Education Division and the Adjudication Officer with the Education
Officer).

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new or revised material.

**RESCISSION**: M22-4, Part III, change 4.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

WILLIAM D. FILLMAN, JR.

Acting Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 32**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 September 5, 2001**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages iii and iv:** Remove these pages and substitute pages iii and iv
attached.

**Pages 4-i through 4-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 4-i
through 4‑10 attached.

This chapter is revised to include only material claims examiners must
know.

Figure 4.01 is corrected to indicate that involuntary separation is a
basis for chapter 1606 delimiting date extension only. This figure is
changed to apply to claimants under chapters 30, 32, 1606 and Sections
901 and 903.

In Ozer v. Principi, the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans
Claims decided that chapter 35 spouses have no delimiting date.
Therefore, extension of delimiting date is not an issue for chapter 35
spouses. Figure 4.02 pertains to chapter 35 surviving spouses and
children and for claimants under the Omnibus Diplomatic Security and
Antiterrorism Act of 1986. References to eligibility of chapter 35
spouses qualifying for an extension of their delimiting dates have been
removed from this chapter.

Paragraphs 4.02 c and d now refer to part V procedures for determining
qualifying separation reasons and verifying subsequent service.

Paragraph 4.02e is revised to reflect VA Precedent Opinion 9-2001 adding
procedures where a veteran has already qualified for basic educational
assistance under chapter 30, 32 or section 903 based on an honorable
period and then has another period of service ending with an "other than
honorable" discharge.

Paragraph 4.03 is amended to remove obsolete information and include
references to appropriate PCGL (Personal Computer Generated Letter)
letters. Rating procedures are removed as they duplicate established
M21-1 procedures.

Paragraph 4.04 shows the basic steps to determine computing of an
extension to the end of a term or course. Monthly rates change often and
are now deleted from the procedures.

Paragraph 4.07 removes unnecessary procedures but has a reference to
part VIII for chapter 1606 procedures.

Paragraph 4.11 updates chapter 30 and 1606 procedures.

Editorial changes are made throughout the change to show updated
information (such as updating chapter 106 to chapter 1606, updating
references to the current chapter 1606 system, M21-1 references, and
changing Target to BDN).

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new or revised material.

**RESCISSION**: M22-4, Part III, change 3.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

WILLIAM D. FILLMAN, JR

Acting Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 31**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 August 8, 2001**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages iii and iv:** Remove these pages and substitute pages iii and iv
attached.

**Pages 11-A-1 and 11-A-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-A-1 and 11-A-2 attached. This change adds the October 1, 2001,
subsistence and assistance allowance rates for the Educational
Assistance Test Program (section 901 of Public Law 96-342).

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new and revised material.

**RESCISSION**: M22-4, part III, change 29.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

WILLIAM D. FILLMAN, JR.

Acting Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 30**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 March 8, 2001**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages iii and iv:** Remove these pages and substitute pages iii and iv
attached.

**Pages 11-A-1 and 11-A-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-A-1 and 11-A-2 attached. This change adds the October 1, 2001,
subsistence and assistance allowance rates for the Educational
Assistance Test Program (section 901 of Public Law 96-342).

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new and revised material.

**RESCISSION**: M22-4, part III, change 29.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

WILLIAM D. FILLMAN, JR.

Acting Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 30**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 March 8, 2001**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages i through iv:** Remove these pages and substitute pages i
through iv attached. (To show the correct signature block on page ii and
to add both circular 20‑90‑9 and part III, changes 6 & 18 to page iii.)

**Page 8-i :** Remove this page and substitute page 8-i attached.

**Pages 8-1 through 8-13:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 8-1
through 8-18 attached.

Paragraph 8.01 is updated and revised for clarity.

Figure 8.01 is updated and revised.

Paragraph 8.03 is updated to remove subparagraph d. Information is
included in paragraph 8.03A. Paragraph 8.03a and 8.08i are revised for
clarity.

Paragraph 8.03A is added to include procedures for processing changes in
enrollment reported by the student. This paragraph applies to chapter 30
verifications as well as noncollege degree programs under chapter 32 and
35. This paragraph will apply to chapter 1606 as verifications of
enrollment will be sent to these claimants when regulations are
finalized. This paragraph also reflects the revised mitigating
circumstances procedures. Procedures previously contained in part V,
chapter 6 are updated and clarified.

Paragraph 8.04 reflects the RPOs processing new chapter 32
correspondence awards. References to the Alternate Means of Input are
updated to the CHAIRS (Chapter 35 Alternate Input Replacement System)
Training Guide.

Target is changed to BDN. Chapter 106 is updated to 1606. The
Adjudication Division is updated to the Education Division. Brackets \[
\] are used to show new or revised material.

**RESCISSIONS**: M22-4, part III, changes 6 and 18; circular 20-90-9.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 29**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 September 15, 2000**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 11-A-1 and 11-A-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-A-1 and 11-A-2 attached. This change adds the October 1, 2000,
subsistence and assistance allowance rates for the Educational
Assistance Test Program (section 901 of Public Law 96-342).

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new and revised material.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 28**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 June 2, 2000**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages iii and iv:** Remove these pages and substitute pages iii and iv
attached.

**Pages 11-i and 11-ii:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 11-i
through 11‑ii attached.

**Pages 11-1 through 11-28:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-1 through 11‑27 and pages 11-A-1 and 11-A-2 attached.

Figure 11.01 has a NOTE reflecting the correct telephone number for
Section 901 inquiries. (The M30 screen has not yet been updated for this
new telephone number.)

Paragraph 11.06 has been updated to include references to appendix A,
which now includes the section 901 rates.

Paragraph 11.07 has been updated to eliminate references to chapter 34.

Paragraph 11.09 has been updated to refer to the current version of VA
Form 22-1999. Figure 11.04 has been updated to the current version of VA
Form 22-1999.

Paragraph 11.19 has been updated to require notification to the CELO
(Chief Education Liaison Officer) by e-mail of a section 901 award.
Figure 11.05 has been eliminated as a formal memo is no longer required
for such notification.

Paragraph 11.25 has been updated for clarification.

Appendix A is added with section 901 rates.

Brackets \[ \] are used to identify new or revised material. References
to chapter 106 are updated to chapter 1606. References to Target are
updated to BDN (Benefits Delivery Network). References to VA Form
21-8046 are updated to VA Form 22-8046. References to the Adjudication
Division and the Adjudication Officer are updated to Veterans Service
Center and the Veterans Service Center Manager.

**RESCISSIONS:** M22-4, Part III, changes 5 and 27.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 27**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 August 25, 1999**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 11-7 through 11-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-7 through 11-10 attached. This change adds the October 1, 1999,
subsistence and assistance allowance rates for the Educational
Assistance Test Program (section 901 of Public Law 96-342).

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new and revised material.

**RESCISSION:** M22-4, Part III, Change 24.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 26**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 July 20, 1999**

Part III, \"Claims Processing---General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Page iii:** Remove this page and substitute pages iii and iv attached.

**Page 2-i:** Remove this page and substitute page 2-i attached.

**Pages 2-9 through 2-13:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 2-9
and 2-10 attached.

Paragraphs 2.09 and 2.10 are reserved for future use. Information in
paragraph 2.09 is moved to paragraph 3.02D. Information in paragraph
2.10 is moved to paragraph 3.02E. Paragraph 2.11 is updated. Stations
can use Form Letter 22‑899, the BDN 205 screen or the PCGL letter to
notify claimants about the need to submit evidence in support of
mitigating circumstances. Each of these means contains adequate notice.
Figure 2.01 is updated.

**Pages 3-i and 3-ii:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 3-i and
3-ii attached.

**Pages 3-1 through 3-12:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 3-1
through 3-18 attached.

References to M21-1 are updated throughout this chapter. References to
chapter 106 are updated to chapter 1606 throughout this chapter. Target
is changed to BDN where not previously changed. Brackets \[ \] are used
to indicate changes.

Paragraph 3.01 adds reference to new paragraph 3.04A with information
concerning initial actions in claim processing. This paragraph also adds
reference to new appendix A with general rules of evidence. These new
items contain information extracted from M21-1 but are updated for
education processing.

Subchapter I is changed to address changes in the regulations concerning
formal and informal claims. Subsequent subchapters are renumbered.
Paragraphs 3.02A through 3.02D are added to subchapter I to address
these issues.

Paragraph 3.03 adds a Note that photocopies and fax copies of original
claims are acceptable in certain instances. Paragraph 3.03c adds a Note
stating that claimants do not have to file a request for a change of
school or change of program on any specific form. Paragraph 3.03d
includes a reference to circular 22-75-25 for chapter 32 refund
instructions.

Paragraph 3.04 adds a Note before subparagraph a stating that if an
education claim is received by a regional office that does not process
education claims, that station should immediately forward that claim to
the appropriate RPO. Subparagraph e adds a Note that if an individual is
eligible for two benefits and applies for the lower one (in the amount
of benefits payable), that VA must advise him or her of the greater
benefit.

Paragraph 3.04A refers to material from M21-1 on initial claim
processing.

Paragraph 3.05c includes the current means of requesting VA Form 21-7131
using PIES (Personnel Information Exchange System.)

Paragraph 3.07b adds a Note concerning the VADS indicator of \"D\".

Paragraph 3.08 adds a summary of the statutory bars to benefits applying
to all VA benefits regardless of the character of discharge contained in
M21-1, part IV, paragraph 11.01.

Paragraph 3.13 adds a Note concerning the Air Force Academy Preparatory
School.

Paragraph 3.19 is revised to include general steps to determine the
amount of a claimant\'s prior training.

Paragraph 3.20 is revised to expand the general steps shown in paragraph
3.19.

Paragraph 3.21a includes procedures when microfilm records of education
awards under the World War II and Korean War Era GI Bills are destroyed
under VA disposal authority.

Paragraph 3.22 deletes details for prior training taken during the World
War II and Korean Conflict education laws. Stations should follow the
instructions contained in M22-2, Part II, paragraph 5.05. (Stations were
asked to maintain at least one copy of M22-2 when Education Service
initially published M22-4.)

**Pages 3-A-1 through 3-A-7:** Insert these pages.

Appendix A includes general rules of evidence pertaining to education
claims. These procedures have been extracted from M21-1, part III,
chapter 1 but are updated for education claims.

**RESCISSIONS**: M22-4, Part III, change 2.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 25**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 October 7, 1998**

Part III, \"Claims Processing---General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages iii and iv:** Remove these pages and substitute page iii
attached.

**Pages 7-i and 7-ii:** Remove these pages and substitute page 7-i
attached.

**Pages 7-1 through 7-13:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 7-1
through 7-15 attached.

Paragraph 7.01 is updated and reorganized for clarity. Paragraph 7.01c
gives current requirements for open circuit TV courses. Subparagraphs h
through j add new references to existing course restrictions. Paragraph
7.01h adds the restriction that VA students may not take unapproved
courses. Paragraph 7.01i adds the restriction that courses must be part
of an approved program. Paragraph 7.01j adds the restriction that a VA
student may not take a course at a proprietary school if he or she is an
official at that school.

Paragraph 7.02 is updated and reorganized for clarity. Paragraph 7.02a
gives current restrictions on nonaccredited correspondence courses.
Paragraph 7.02i adds the restriction on nonaccredited independent study
courses.

Figure 7.01 is updated and reorganized in alphabetical order. The figure
now clearly indicates that alternate teacher certification programs are
[not]{.underline} available under chapter 35. The figure now includes an
item for Small Business Administration programs. The figure deletes the
item for Undergraduate or Professional Programs since these programs are
equally available under all the VA laws discussed in this chapter.

Paragraph 7.04 is revised for clarity. Alternate teacher certification
programs are not available under chapter 35.

Paragraph 7.06 is revised for clarity and to stress that \"already
qualified\" means already qualified for the [objective]{.underline} of
the requested program of education.

Paragraph 7.16 is revised for clarity. Paragraph 7.16a deletes the
requirement (except for chapter 35) that a student may take noncredit
refresher, remedial, and deficiency courses only if VA receives a
certification as to the need for such courses. From now on, based on
changes to the regulations, VA assumes the need for such courses except
in chapter 35 cases.

Paragraphs 7.17 and 7.18 are revised for clarity.

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new and revised material.

**RESCISSIONS:** M22-4, part III, changes 7, 15, and 19; Circular
22-93-3, paragraph 5.

By direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 24**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 August 20, 1998**

Part III, \"Claims Processing---General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 11-7 through 11-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-7 through 11-10 attached. This change adds the October 1, 1998,
subsistence and assistance allowance rates for the Educational
Assistance Test Program (section 901 of Public Law 96-342).

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new and revised material.

**RESCISSION:** M22-4, Part III, Change 21.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 23**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 April 1, 1998**

Part III, \"Claims Processing---General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 11-7 through 11-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-7 through 11-10 attached. This change adds the October 1, 1998,
subsistence and assistance allowance rates for the Educational
Assistance Test Program (section 901 of Public Law 96-342).

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new and revised material.

**RESCISSION:** M22-4, Part III, Change 21.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 23**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 April 1, 1998**

Part III, \"Claims Processing---General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 1-i and 1-ii:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 1-i and
1-ii attached.

**Pages 1-1 through 1-8:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 1-1
through 1-8 attached.

This change reverses change 22 as to requiring consolidation of chapter
30 and EDU folders into an EDU folder.

Figure 1.01 is revised to include the Los Angeles and Oakland ROs with
the Muskogee RPO. These ROs had their education processing initially
consolidated to the San Diego RO during 1993. The San Diego RO then had
its education processing consolidated to the Muskogee RPO during 1996.

Paragraph 1.05 is revised to update the E-mail address for requesting
RMC to delete folders from BIRLS. RPOs can send Exchange E-mail to
\"VAVBASTL/RMC/UPD.\"

Paragraph 1.18 is revised. Change 22 stated that if a veteran had
applied for two benefits and had two education folders (an EDU folder
and a chapter 30 folder), RPOs had to process the claim using the
veteran\'s EDU folder. This change reverses that requirement. This
change gives RPOs two options. The first option is for the RPO to retain
both the EDU and chapter 30 folders. The second option is for the RPO to
destroy one folder and retain the other folder.

**Pages 3-i and 3-ii:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 3-i and
3-ii attached.

**Pages 3-3 and 3-4:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 3-3, 3-4
and 3-4a attached.

Paragraph 3.03e is revised to include information on denying more than
one benefit when a claimant checks more than one education benefit or
indicates \"unknown\" or \"unsure\" on his or her application form. If
the claimant is not entitled to the benefit sought, disallow the claim
in BDN. This will to establish a disallowed master record. Send the
claimant a dictated letter explaining why he or she is not eligible for
each benefit denied.

Paragraph 3.05e is revised to add a NOTE specifying that payments for
terminal leave cases should begin on the first day of the term in which
the individual begins training as a serviceperson and later becomes a
veteran.

Paragraph 3.06 is revised to state that the commanding officer\'s
certification was a procedural requirement to assist in the processing
of a serviceperson\'s application for education benefits and is not
available on VA Forms 22-1990, dated March, 1997. Procedures are stated
to verify a serviceperson\'s service.

All references to Target have been changed to BDN (Benefits Delivery
Network) on the pages within this change.

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new and revised material.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 22**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 December 9, 1997**

Part III, \"Claims Processing---General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages iii and iv:** Remove these pages and substitute pages iii and iv
attached.

**Pages 1-i and 1-ii:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 1-i and
1-ii attached.

**Pages 1-1 and 1-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 1-1 and
1-2 attached.

Paragraph 1.01 is revised to state that ROs should not request return of
education folders from education processing offices except in certain
instances. The education processing offices are the RPOs (Regional
Processing Offices), and the Baltimore, Manila and Waco ROs (Regional
Offices). Paragraph 1.01 also states that when a claimant has both EDU
(education) and chapter 30 folders, the RPO will delete the chapter 30
folder and process all of the veteran\'s claims using the EDU folder.
RPOs will have Records Management Center delete the chapter 30 folder
from BIRLS.

**Pages 1-7 and 1-8:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 1-7 and
1-8 attached.

Paragraph 1.18 is revised so that when a claimant has both EDU
(education) and chapter 30 folders, the RPO will delete the chapter 30
folder and process all of the veteran\'s claims using the EDU folder.
RPOs will have Records Management Center delete the chapter 30 folder
from BIRLS.

**Page 2-i through 2-11:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 2-i
through 2-13 attached.

Subchapter I is retitled.

Paragraph 2.01 has the references to M21-1 chapters placed in numerical
order. This paragraph also explains that this chapter applies only to
education processing stations.

Paragraph 2.03 includes examples of administrative error. (These
examples are currently in part IV, paragraph 11.02 but will be removed
in a future change to part IV.)

Paragraph 2.07 is revised to include information concerning appeals of
equitable relief decisions. Claimants do not have the right to appeal
equitable relief decisions to the Board of Veterans Appeals. ROs should
include this information when advising claimants of the CO decision.

Paragraph 2.09 shows that chapter 30 regulations now provide an
extension of the one year time limit when the initial notice did not
include the time limit.

Paragraph 2.10 is reorganized for clarity. It also shows chapter 35
extensions for good cause are allowed on or after May 24, 1996. Evidence
not submitted timely (when considered for retroactive adjustment) can
still be considered for current or future benefits.

Paragraphs 2.10 and 2.11 add information about letters generated by the
PCGL (Personal Computer Generated Letter) system. The PCGL system
provides ROs with an additional means of sending claimants appropriate
development letters.

**RESCISSIONS:** M22-4, part III, changes 1, 12 and 14.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 21**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 October 22, 1997**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 11-7 through 11-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-7 through 11-10 attached. This change adds the October 1, 1997,
subsistence and assistance allowance rates for the Educational
Assistance Test Program

(section 901 of Public Law 96-342).

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new and revised material.

**RESCISSION:** M22-4, Part III, Change 16.

By Direction of the Acting Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 20**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 May 28, 1997**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages iii and iv:** Remove these pages and substitute pages iii and iv
attached.

**Page 5-i :** Remove this page and substitute page 5-i attached.

**Pages 5-1 through 5-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 5-1
through 5-4 attached.

Brackets have not been used because of the extensive nature of the
changes in this chapter.

Applicants who are educationally disadvantaged no longer require a
direct personalized offer of counseling.

Paragraph 5.02 includes revised procedures for Adjudication to send
counseling requests to VR&C.

Paragraph 5.03 includes the full eligibility criteria for a claimant to
receive counseling. Before the enactment of Public Law 102-16, a
claimant had to be eligible for education benefits to qualify for
counseling. After the enactment of PL 102‑16, a claimant may qualify for
counseling without being eligible for benefits.

Paragraph 5.04 points out that all requests for counseling will be
routed to VR&C. If VR&C cannot determine eligibility for counseling,
they will initially consult with the local Adjudication Division. If the
local Adjudication Division cannot determine eligibility for counseling
without a benefit eligibility determination, the local Adjudication
division will refer the counseling request to the RPO Adjudication
Division for that decision.

Paragraph 5.05 provides RPO Adjudication procedures for processing
counseling requests sent to the RPO. The Baltimore RO retains
jurisdiction over the Omnibus Antiterrorism Act and will follow
counseling procedures the same as RPOs.

Paragraph 5.06 does not carry forward procedures for affording
educationally disadvantaged applicants a direct personalized offer of
counseling. Applicants were considered educationally disadvantaged if
they applied for a high school program or any deficiency, remedial, or
refresher course preparatory to a program of education.

Paragraph 5.08 provides for ROs to dispose of material in a counseling
folder when counseling is complete or a claimant fails to report for
counseling. It also eliminates the requirement that VR&C always notify
Adjudication of the results of counseling; VR&C will only notify
Adjudication of the results of required counseling.

**RESCISSION**: Circular 22-92-3, paragraph 5.

By Direction of the Acting Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 19**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 February 28, 1997**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages iii and iv:** Remove these pages and substitute pages iii and iv
attached.

Pages iii and iv are updated to reflect change 11 rescinding change 10
and change 16 rescinding change 11.

**Pages 7-5 and 7-6:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 7-5 and
7-6 attached.

Paragraph 7.04 is updated to show the provisions of Public Law 104-275.
Paragraph 7.04c shows that cooperative program rates are changed from
80% to 100% of the institutional rate for full-time training effective
October 9, 1996. This public law reduced but did not eliminate the
difference between the cooperative rate and the residence rate for
chapter 30, category II. Specific chapter 30 rates are shown in circular
22-97-1 and will be included in a future change to part V. Part IV,
paragraph 7.08, will be updated in the future. Paragraph 7.04e shows
that the alternative teacher certification program is a permanent
program.

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new or revised material.

**RESCISSION**: Circular 22-97-1, paragraph 7.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 18**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 February 7, 1997**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 8-11 through 8-13:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 8-1
through 8-13 attached.

Paragraph 8.06 changes procedures when a certification shows that the
trainee is still below the journeyman wage but the interim trainee wage
has changed over the years.

References to chapter 106 are updated to chapter 1606. References to
Target are updated to BDN.

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new or revised material.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 17**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 December 11, 1996**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 1-15 and 1-16:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 1-15
and 1-16 attached.

Paragraph 1.32 is changed to include the requirement for three
signatures on awards in excess of \$4,000. This requirement was
previously shown in part IV, paragraph 13.23. Other changes are made for
clarity.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 16**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 October 7, 1996**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 11-7 through 11-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-7 through 11-10 attached. This change adds the October 1, 1996,
subsistence and assistance allowance rates for the Educational
Assistance Test Program

(section 901 of Public Law 96-342).

**RESCISSION:** M22-4, Part III, Change 11.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 15**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 August 14, 1996**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 7-3 through 7-6:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 7-3
through 7-6a attached.

Figure 7.01 is updated to show alternative teacher certification program
information. Footnotes are renumbered based on adding this information.
The new footnote 3 clarifies that DEA claimants can only take
alternative teacher certification courses if offered by an IHL
(Institution of Higher Learning). Footnote 7 adds chapter 1606
restrictions for independent study. Footnote 8 adds information for
chapter 1606 restrictions concerning update refresher training.

Paragraph 7.04 is updated to show the provisions of Public Law 103-446
concerning the alternative teacher certification program.

Paragraph 7.05 is updated to show the provisions of Public Law 103-446
which deleted the requirement that courses offered outside the United
States must be offered in residence on the campus of the school. Courses
which are part of a standard college degree offered by an IHL outside
the United States may now be approved without regard to the mode of
instruction. Another note is added to give a cross reference to 38 CFR
21.4206(b) which has foreign medical school requirements. A different
Education Service staff now approves foreign training; references are
updated from \"225B\" to \"225A.\"

**Page 7-13:** Remove this page and substitute page 7-13 attached.

Paragraph 7.18c is updated to show that reservists who served a period
of active duty before qualifying under

chapter 1606 are eligible for update refresher training (subject to
certain restrictions).

References to chapter 106 are updated to chapter 1606.

Brackets \[ \] have been used to identify new or revised material.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 14**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 July 1, 1996**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 1-1 and 1-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 1-1 and
1-2 attached.

Paragraph 1.02 reverses Change 13 as to jurisdiction of correspondence
school cases. The change in jurisdiction required by Change 13 would
have an adverse effect on claims processing. Correspondence claims will
remain with the RPO having jurisdiction over the claimant\'s address.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 13**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 May 22, 1996**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Page iii:** Remove this page and substitute pages iii and iv attached.

**Pages 1-i and 1-ii:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 1-i
through 1-iii attached.

**Pages 1-1 through 1-16:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 1-1
through 1-16 attached.

M21-1 References are updated throughout.

References to Target are updated and changed to BDN (Benefits Delivery
Network).

Paragraph 1.01 adds procedures for ROs to create an EDU (Education)
folder for original chapter 32 or 1606 claims. It includes a reference
to paragraph 1.04 for stations to review claim folders and establish EDU
folders if the claims folder has other than education material. This
paragraph also reflects that education processing is consolidated to
four RPOs (Regional Processing Offices). All ROs will continue to handle
counseling requests, claims for work-study benefits, and chapter 32
refunds. It includes a note that St. Louis will continue to process
chapter 30 death benefit claims and claims for accrued based on the
death of servicepersons.

Paragraph 1.02 reflects the consolidation of education benefits into the
RPOs. If an education application shows enrollment in a specific school
(to include a correspondence school), the RPO having jurisdiction over
the school\'s address will have jurisdiction over the claim.

Paragraph 1.03 reflects the consolidation of foreign training into the
Buffalo RPO. (Other offices retain certain foreign claims.)

Paragraph 1.05 adds new procedures for requesting education material
from an RO.

Paragraphs 1.06 through 1.10 and 1.15 are removed and reserved for
future usage. (Information in paragraphs 1.06 through 1.10 is
consolidated into paragraphs 1.02 through 1.04.)

Paragraphs 1.18c has been added to state procedures to establish EDU
folders.

Paragraphs 1.19b and c update the order of documents filed in claims,
education, and DEA folders. (Par. 1.19c shows that the St. Louis
regional office no longer maintains chapter 30 documents in chapter 30
folders. These documents are maintained on the optical disk Prototype
system.)

Paragraph 1.22 has been amended to require regional offices to establish
pending issues for chapter 1606 claims in the same manner as for other
education benefits. An exception is made for chapter 1606 supplemental
claims when no development is required. Subparagraph b modifies the date
of claim entered into BDN to be the first date received in any RO rather
than the date that it was received by the office that has jurisdiction
for processing the claim.

Paragraph 1.28 has been amended to reflect a more complete list of
education forms.

Paragraph 1.32 has been retitled and amended to reflect modified
criteria for single signature authority. For establishing DEA
eligibility, the Adjudication Officer can delegate this authority to
selected claims examiners.

Subchapter VI is added to specify procedures for file number adjustment
actions.

Due to the extensive changes, brackets are not used to show changes.

**Page 9-i:** Remove this page and substitute page 9-i attached.

**Pages 9-7 through 9-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 9-7
through 9-10 attached.

Figures 9.03 through 9.06 are reformatted into reader focused writing
format. Figures 9.04 and 9.05 have new chapter 35 disallowance
information.

**RESCISSIONS**: Circular 22-92-13, paragraph 2; Circular 22-94-3
(Revised) dated

September 30, 1994 to include change 1; Circular 22-94-7, paragraphs 1
through 6 and 10 through 14; and Circular 22‑95-3 to include change 1.
This completes the rescission of Circular 22-94-7.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 12**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 October 3, 1995**

Part III, \"Claims Processing-General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 2-7 through 2-11:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 2-7
through 2-11 attached. (This change discusses the provisions for
extending the one-year time limit for the submission of [supporting
evidence]{.underline} of mitigating circumstances. Previously, the
regulations allowed an extension only for submitting a
[statement]{.underline} of mitigating circumstances. The change also
contains editorial corrections to update the names of the different
education benefit programs.)

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 11**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 October 3, 1995**

Part III, \"Claims Processing-General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 11-7 through 11-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-7 through 11-10 attached. This change adds the October 1, 1995,
subsistence and assistance allowance rates for the Educational
Assistance Test Program (section 901 of Public Law 96-342).

**RESCISSION:** M22-4, Part III, Change 10.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 10**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 Decmber 6, 1994**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 11-7 through 11-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-7 through 11-10 attached. This change adds the October 1, 1994,
subsistence and assistance allowance rates for the Educational
Assistance Test Program (section 901 of Public Law 96-342).

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 9**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 October 26, 1994**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Page iii:** Remove this page and substitute page iii attached.

**Page 9-i:** Remove this page and substitute page 9-i attached.

**Page 9-1 through 9-12:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 9-1
through 9-14 attached.

Paragraph 9.01a permits regional offices to use a locally generated
version of VA Form 22-1993a rather than stocking this form.

Paragraph 9.02a clarifies suggested wording on a Certificate of
Eligibility for dual entitlement cases.

Paragraph 9.03b clarifies who must approve the issuance of a Certificate
of Eligibility.

Paragraph 9.04 gives a cross reference to part IV, paragraph 13.15,
concerning due process in adverse action cases.

Paragraph 9.05 also gives a cross reference to part IV, paragraph 13.15,
and includes a reference to new figures 9.08 through 9.10.

Paragraph 9.07 clarifies when non-Target disallowances are required.
Procedures provide for clearing the proper supplemental end product.

New figures 9.08, 9.09, and 9.10 are added to give suggested wording for
disallowing claims when an education program is not approved for the
payment of educational assistance and when an education program cannot
be approved for the payment of educational assistance. These pattern
letters replace VA Form Letter 22-89, Disallowance Letter-Course or
Program Not Approved, and VA Form Letter 22-153, Disapproval Letter.
These form letters will be discontinued.

**RESCISSION**: Circular 22-92-13, paragraph 5.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 8**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 August 4, 1994**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Page iii:** Remove this page and substitute page iii attached.

**Page 10-i :** Remove this page and substitute page 10-i attached.

**Pages 10-1 through 10-3:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
10-1 through 10-3 attached.

Procedures are added for chapter 106 tutorial assistance.

**RESCISSION:** Circular 22-93-3, paragraph 14.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

M22-4, Part III, Change 7 July 19, 1994

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Page 7-i and 7-ii:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 7-i and
7-ii attached.

**Page 7-1 through 7-14:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 7-1
through 7-13 attached.

Paragraph 7.01f(2) is corrected to state that evidence must be submitted
to prove that a course is not avocational or recreational.

A NOTE has been added to paragraph 7.02 indicating that nurse\'s aide
courses can be approved effective October 29, 1992 if the SAA approves
the courses as meeting requirements by the Secretary of Health and Human
Services.

Table 7.01 is updated to show revised status of restrictions applying to
chapter 106 graduate training and nonaccredited independent study.
Footnotes are renumbered.

Paragraph 7.17 clarifies the definitions of refresher courses.

Paragraph 7.18 clarifies the restrictions on refresher courses under
chapters 35 and 106.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

M22-4, Part III, Change 6 July 12, 1994

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Page iii:** Remove this page and substitute page iii attached.

**Page 8-i :** Remove this page and substitute page 8-i attached.

**Pages 8-1 through 8-13:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 8-1
through 8-13 attached.

Paragraph 8.01 adds figure 8.01 summarizing the certification forms.

Paragraph 8.03 is updated to reflect the replacement of VA Form 22-6553a
by VA Form 22-8979.

Paragraph 8.04c(3) is rewritten for clarity.

Paragraph 8.05d(6) deletes references to reason codes 59 and 78.

Paragraph 8.09 adds information concerning the availability of the
printed versions of the certification forms. Regional offices may use
these printed versions when a claimant has not received or has lost the
form that Hines Benefit Delivery Center sent. This paragraph also
includes the exceptions to mandatory use of these forms.

**RESCISSIONS**: Circular 20-90-9, Appendix C, and Circular 22-92-5.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

Change 5 March 30, 1994

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Pages 11-i through 11-4:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-i through 11-4 attached. This change removes the list of military
contact points for section 901 of Pubic Law 96-342 (chapter 107 of Title
10 U. S. Code). Central Office and the Waco Regional Office will
maintain the contact point addresses. A display of the M30 Target Screen
is substituted for the list of contact points in figure 11.01.

**Pages 11-7 through 11-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
11-7 through 11-10 attached. This change adds the October 1, 1992, and
the October 1, 1993, subsistence and assistance allowance rates for
section 901.

**Pages 11-15 and 11-16:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 11-15
and 11-16 attached. This change shows the correct telephone number for
the Veterans Services Division at the Waco Regional Office and the
correct citations in the M22-4 and M21-1 regarding the procedures for
appeals.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

M22-4, Part III, Change 4 March 7, 1994

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Page iii:** Remove this page and substitute page III attached.

**Page 6-i :** Remove this page and substitute page 6-i attached.

**Pages 6-1 through 6-7:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 6-1
through 6-8 attached.

Paragraph 6.04 is amended to include revised procedures for determining
when non-degree certificate programs may be considered educational
objectives.

Paragraph 6.05 is amended to revise procedures as to when enrollment
certifications from IHLs are exempt from approval review. Suggested
wording for denial letters on approval matters will be incorporated into
paragraph 9.05.

Paragraph 6.07 is added to specify procedures when a course is not
approved. A similar procedure already exists for chapter 30 in part V,
paragraph 4.18. The ELR must now review all proposed denials based on a
course not being approved.

**RESCISSION**: Circular 22-92-13, paragraph 9.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

M22-4, Part III, Change 3 March 3, 1994

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Page 4-i :** Remove this page and substitute page 4-i attached.

**Pages 4-1 through 4-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 4-1
through 4-10 attached.

M21-1 references are updated throughout.

Paragraph 4.01 is amended to include specific paragraph references.
Figure 4.01 has been updated to address additional issues.

Paragraph 4.03 is amended to delete the reference to a specific end
product code as different codes are used for different benefits. This
paragraph also eliminates the requirement that each regional office
maintain a listing showing the disposition of applications for extension
of delimiting date based on disability. This paragraph also states the
chapter 106 requirement that the disability must be incurred in or
aggravated by service in the Selected Reserve.

Paragraph 4.04 describes the extension of chapter 106 delimiting dates
in flight cases.

Paragraph 4.05 is amended to provide references for POW/MIA extensions
(chapter 30 only).

Paragraphs 4.07 through 4.10 are added to include additional types of
extensions.

Paragraph 4.07 provides specific chapters 30 and 106 procedures for
extensions because of involuntary separations.

Paragraph 4.09 provides a new cross reference to part VI, paragraph
1.03, as 38 CFR 21.3042(b) requires that no benefits under chapter 35
will be provided unless the individual\'s discharge or release from each
period of service is under conditions other than dishonorable.

Paragraph 4.11 includes procedures for extending delimiting dates for
Target and out-of-system processing.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

M22-4, Part III, Change 2 February 25, 1994

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Page iii:** Remove this page and substitute page iii attached.

**Page 3-i:** Remove this page and substitute pages 3-i and 3-ii
attached.

**Pages 3-1 through 3-11:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 3-1
through 3-12 attached.

References to M21-1 are updated throughout this chapter. Brackets \[ \]
are used to indicate changes.

Paragraph 3.02b is amended to conform with part IV, chapter 12, for
effective dates when an application is filed with a U.S. embassy or
consulate.

Paragraph 3.03e adds a Note stating that a claim for Dependency and
Indemnity Compensation may [not]{.underline} be considered a claim for
chapter 35 benefits. This is based on a General Counsel precedent
opinion.

Paragraph 3.04d deletes the name and reference numbers of the specific
pamphlets. These are given in part I, paragraph 5.10.

Paragraph 3.05 is amended to include specific cross references for
review of prior training and extension of delimiting date.

Paragraph 3.07 no longer lists what is acceptable documentation of
service. The list in M21-1 is cross referenced instead. Paragraph 3.07
also no longer contains a subparagraph concerning fraud. This issue is
now in chapter 2.

Paragraph 3.12 is amended to cross reference M21-1 on Reserve and
National Guard service. An exception for chapter 30 is added based on
changes in Public Law 101-510.

Paragraph 3.13 clarifies the effect of service at service academy
preparatory schools.

Paragraph 3.14 clarifies the effect on chapter 30 eligibility of service
academy service and training at a \"civilian school.\" This paragraph
also clarifies the effect of excess leave.

Subchapter IV is added to specify procedures concerning training under
prior benefit programs. Although this information was previously
included in part V, chapter 9, it has been updated to reflect all
benefit programs.

**RESCISSIONS**: Circulars 20-79-24 and 22-91-9, paragraph 6.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**Veterans Benefits Administration M22-4, Part III**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 1**

**Washington, DC 20420 February 8, 1994**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General,\" Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22-4, \"Education Procedures,\" is changed as
follows:

**Page iii:** Remove this page and substitute page iii attached.

**Page 2-i:** Remove this page and substitute page 2-i attached.

**Pages 2-1 through 2-8:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 2-1
through 2-11 attached.

M21-1 references are updated throughout the chapter.

Paragraph 2.03a(2) clarifies the administrative error provisions for
chapter 30.

Paragraph 2.03b updates the amount in administrative error cases
requiring approval of the Adjudication Officer from \$1,000 to \$2,000.
This is consistent with M21-1.

Paragraph 2.04i gives a cross reference for fraud issues.

Paragraph 2.05c adds a NOTE for chapter 106 Statements of the Case when
VA makes its decision based on a DOD/DOT determination of ineligibility.

Paragraph 2.06a and b are revised to be consistent with M21-1.

Paragraph 2.07d(1)(a) deletes the requirement in equitable relief cases
that the claimant\'s statement be certified.

Subchapter III is added to specify procedures concerning the time limits
for the submission of evidence.

Paragraph 2.11a clarifies the requirement to notify claimants of time
limits.

Paragraph 2.11b reflects the regulations extending the \"good cause\"
provisions of law to chapter 32/section 903, chapter 35 and chapter 106;
it also shows the adjustment of the effective date for applying this
provision of law (from April 19, 1991 to August 1, 1990).

Paragraph 2.11c instructs stations to use the 205 screen for development
of mitigating circumstances for chapter 30, chapter 32/section 903, and
chapter 35. Stations should use Form Letter 22-899 for development for
mitigating circumstances in chapter 106.

**RESCISSION**: M22-4, part III, chapter 2 dated June 30, 1992 and
Circular 22-92-10.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

![](media/image1.emf){width="2.8875in" height="0.8277777777777777in"}

> **M22-4, Part III**
>
> Education Procedures
>
> **Claims Processing - General**

Part III, \"Claims Processing - General\" to Veterans Benefits
Administration Manual M22‑4, \"Education Procedures,\" is published for
the compliance of all concerned.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

CELIA P. DOLLARHIDE

Director, Education Service

Distribution: RPC: 2225

FD EX: ASO and AR, 1 each

**RESCISSIONS**

1\. **Manuals**

M22-2, Part I, Chapters 2, 3, 4, and 5

M22-2, Part II, Chapter 1

M22-2, Part II, Chapter 2, paragraph 2.02

M22-2, Part II, Chapter 3, paragraph 3.05d

M22-2, Part II, Chapter 4, paragraph 4.09

M22-2, Part II, Chapter 5, paragraph 5.08

M22-2, Part II, Chapter 8

M22-2, Part II, Chapter 9

M22-2, Part III, Chapters 1, 2, 3

M22-2, Part III, Chapter 8, paragraph 8.11

M22-2, Part IV, Chapter 2

M22-2, Part IV, Chapter 3, paragraphs 3.01, 3.02, and 3.04

M22-2, Part IV, Chapters 10, and 12

M22-2, Part V, Chapter 10, paragraphs 10.18 through 10.35

M22-2, Part VIII, Chapter 1, paragraph 1.06

M22-2, Part VIII, Chapter 2, paragraph 2.07

M22-4, Part III, Changes 1-7, 10-12, 14-16, 18-19, 21, 24, 27, 29, 31
and \[36\]

PG21-1, Section M-11

PG21-1, Section M-31

PG21-1, Section M-37

PG21-1, Section M-40

PG21-1, Section M-48

*NOTE: All of PG21-1 has been rescinded.*

2\. **Interim Issues**

3\. **Circulars**

Circular 20-79-24

Circular 20-83-8, Basic with changes 1 and 2

Circular 22-88-4

Circular 20-89-10, paragraphs 6c and 8 of basic and Appendix A

Circular 20-89-17, Basic and Appendix A

Circular 20-90-9,

Circular 20-90-9, Appendix B (Revised February 15, 1991, paragraphs
4e(1), 5a(1), 5b, 7a, and Exhibits 1 through 7) and Appendix C

Circular 22-90-1

Circular 22-91-9, paragraph 6

Circular 22-92-3, paragraph 5

Circular 22-92-5

Circular 22-92-10

Circular 22-92-13, paragraphs 2, 5, and 9

**Circulars (Continued)**

Circular 22-93-3, paragraphs \[5\] and 14

Circular 22-94-3, (Revised) Basic and change 1

Circular 22-94-7

Circular 22-95-3, Basic and change 1

Circular 22-97-1, paragraph 7

> **CONTENTS**
>
> **PART III. EDUCATION PROCESSING - GENERAL**
>
> CHAPTER PAGE
>
> 1\. ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES 1-1
>
> 2\. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES 2-1
>
> 3\. PROCESSING APPLICATIONS FOR BENEFITS 3-1
>
> 4\. DELIMITING DATE EXTENSIONS 4-1
>
> 5\. COUNSELING 5-1
>
> 6\. PROGRAMS OF EDUCATION 6-1
>
> 7\. RESTRICTIONS ON TRAINING 7-1
>
> 8\. PERIODIC EDUCATION CERTIFICATIONS 8-1
>
> 9\. CERTIFICATES OF ELIGIBILITY AND DISALLOWANCES 9-1
>
> 10\. TUTORIAL ASSISTANCE 10-1
>
> 11\. SECTION 901 11-1
>
> 12\. THE ANTITERRORISM ACT 12-1