Continuing Student Checklist

This checklist is for those students who have completed at least one semester while using their military education benefits at UMBC.

NOTE: Returning students need to submit the Request for Certification each semester that they are enrolled in classes.

1. Register for Classes

2. Submit your Request for Certification. You will submit this form to us with your “Certificate of Eligibility” once you have registered for classes for the upcoming semester.  It can be found at veterans.umbc.edu/forms or linked HERE

3.  If you change the number of credits that you have registered for, you will need to resubmit your Request for Certification with your updated credits. Please submit this form AS SOON AS you change your schedule to avoid debts from the VA

Spring 2021 Registration and Certification Information and Updates

As we wrap up the Fall 2020 semester and look ahead to Spring 2021, would like to take this opportunity to go over a few friendly registration and VA-related reminders and dates to help ensure your success.

Advance registration for the Spring 2021 semester has concluded. Below are some helpful resources if you still need to register or adjust your schedule.

Registration Information
Registration Deadlines
Departmental Advising Information

Please remember: VA certification requests for the semester should be submitted as soon as possible after you have registered for classes. Initial certification for books and housing will take place within 14 business days after receiving your request.

The final certification process for tuition and fees for all VA students begins following the add/drop deadline and can take up to 30 days. This does not include VA processing time to send tuition payment to UMBC which can additionally take 3-4 weeks.

Students using GI Bill® benefits wishing to register for upcoming terms with an overdue balance for the current term can contact the VA Certifying Official requesting permission to register.

Additional Information

With regards to questions pertaining to book and housing allowance payments due to COVID, law S.3503 provides the VA with temporary authority to continue GI Bill® payments uninterrupted during an emergency. The law allows the VA to pay education benefits regardless of the fact that a program has been converted from in-person to online modality. These special COVID rules have been extended to December 21, 2021.

Please be mindful that all classes taken must be required towards the degree being pursued as shown in your degree audit. You should consult with your academic advisor if you have questions regarding degree requirements. You can also contact the Registrar’s Office degree audit team.

As always, we work closely with the VA to ensure enrollments are accurately certified and processed. Should you have questions about the certification process, please reach out to our VA certifying official. Your patience during peak times is greatly appreciated. Best wishes for a safe and successful semester..