Overview

The Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance (DEA) program provides education and training opportunities to eligible dependents and spouses of veterans who are permanently ant totally disabled due to a service-related condition or of veterans who died while active duty or as a result of a service-related condition.

The DEA program offers up to 45 months of education benefits.

Note: The monthly benefit amount is paid directly to the student as a monthly stipend. No payments are sent to UCSB. Current and past rates for this benefit can be found on the US Department of Veteran Affairs website under Rate Tables.

Eligibility

To be eligible, you must be the son or daughter (typically between ages 18 and 26), or spouse of:

  • A Veteran who died or is permanently and totally disabled as the result of a service-connected disability. The disability must arise out of active service in the armed forces.
  • A Veteran who died from any cause while such permanent and total service-connected disability was in existence.
  • A Service member missing in action or captured in line of duty by a hostile force.
  • A Service member forcibly detained or interned in line of duty by a foreign government or power.
  • A Service member who is hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment for a service connected permanent and total disability and is likely to be discharged for that disability. This change is effective Dec. 23, 2006.

 

More Information and How to Apply

For further detailed information and eligibility requirements, visit the DEA area of the Department of Veteran Affairs website or view the online DEA Program Pamphlet (PDF).