Disabled Veteran Tuition Waiver
Free tuition at RI public colleges and universities (CCRI, RIC, URI) for veterans with 10%-100% service-connected disability.
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Education & Training — Rhode Island
- Who it's for
- Veterans
- VA rating needed
- 10% or higher
- Estimated value
- $5,000-$15,000/year
- Where it applies
- Rhode Island
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is Disabled Veteran Tuition Waiver?
Disabled Veteran Tuition Waiver is a Rhode Island education & training benefit for veterans. Free tuition at RI public colleges and universities (CCRI, RIC, URI) for veterans with 10%-100% service-connected disability. Requires 10%+ VA disability rating. The listed value is $5,000-$15,000/year.
Who qualifies
- Requires 10%+ VA disability rating
- Rhode Island residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
Veteran rated 10% to 100% service-connected disability. Permanent resident of RI. Must apply for and use financial aid (via FAFSA) first; the waiver covers remaining tuition only (exclusive of other fees and charges).
What Disabled Veteran Tuition Waiver covers
Legal Basis
RIGL 30-30.1-1. Apply through the institution's veteran services office with VA disability documentation.
Verified information & sources
Last verified: May 12, 2026
Official source: vets.ri.gov
Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Frequently asked questions about Disabled Veteran Tuition Waiver
Who qualifies for Disabled Veteran Tuition Waiver?▾
What VA disability rating do I need for Disabled Veteran Tuition Waiver?▾
How much is Disabled Veteran Tuition Waiver worth?▾
How do I apply for Disabled Veteran Tuition Waiver?▾
Where can I verify Disabled Veteran Tuition Waiver?▾
Other Rhode Island Education & Training
National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program (STAP)
Tuition waiver for up to 5 classes per semester at CCRI, RIC, or URI for RI National Guard members.
Full tuition per semester at state institutions
In-State Tuition for Veterans and Dependents
In-state tuition rates at CCRI, RIC, and URI for active duty, dependents, and eligible veterans immediately upon establishing RI residence.
Dependents Education Fund (Survivors of Deceased Veterans / POW / MIA)
State-funded education benefit for surviving children and spouses of veterans who died from hostile action or service-connected disability, or who are POW/MIA. Up to 4 years at RI public institutions.
Up to in-state URI tuition + books per year
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