S.Amdt. 2923

SA 2923, submitted by Mr. Coons, aims to add a section to bill S. 2296 that allows people entitled to veterans educational assistance to use that assistance to pay for covered examinations and assessments. The purpose is to allow these individuals to receive credit toward degrees from institutions of higher learning for approved programs of education.

Key Changes and Additions

• Payment Coverage: The amendment allows veterans educational assistance to cover the cost of specific exams and assessments, but the amount is limited to the lesser of the actual charge or $500.

• Covered Examinations: The assistance applies to:

  • DANTES Subject Standardized Test Program (DSST) examinations.
  • College Level Examination Program (CLEP) examinations.
  • National Career Readiness Certificate examinations.
  • Other similar exams specified by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
  • Assessments by higher learning institutions of a student's portfolio or written narrative that shows prior military training or learning.

• Entitlement Charges: The number of months of entitlement charged for these exams is calculated by dividing the cost of the exam by the individual's monthly rate of veterans educational assistance.

• Protections: Using assistance under this section for laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs will not affect entitlement to assistance administered by the Secretary of Defense, such as the Department of Defense Tuition Assistance Program.