University of Phoenix Provides Debt-Free Education to Veterans Through Voluntary Participation in Yellow Ribbon Program
PHOENIX (July 14, 2009) – University of Phoenix today announced its participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program, allowing eligible students to obtain their degrees without any out-of-pocket expenses. The Yellow Ribbon Program, a provision of the Post-9/11 Veteran’s Educational Assistance Act of 2008, enables colleges and universities to fund expenses that exceed the GI Bill’s maximum tuition and fees benefit rate, currently capped at the highest level of in-state undergraduate charges at the most expensive public institution in a given state. Through its voluntary participation, University of Phoenix will cover tuition and fees that surpass the GI Bill benefit rate at all its campuses and online by contributing up to 50% of the excess cost. The U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) will match the University’s contribution dollar-for-dollar, potentially eliminating a student’s education related debt.
“University of Phoenix believes the heroic men and women of the Armed Forces deserve educational opportunities to enhance their future and that of their families,” said Mike Bibbee, vice president of University of Phoenix’s military division. “Just as they feel it is their duty and honor to serve their country, University of Phoenix feels honored and privileged to serve these individuals and help them reach their academic goals without the added burden of student loans.”
With one of the largest active duty and veteran student populations in the country, University of Phoenix understands the needs and demands of military service, including members’ frequent moves and deployments. As such, the University has created a special military division to help military students achieve their academic goals every step of the way. To provide further access, University of Phoenix also works closely with education officers at hundreds of military bases around the globe to ensure the University is providing the support and information necessary to help military personnel determine which educational programs best fit their lifestyle. The University also has implemented several scholarship programs directed toward military members and their families.
For more details about the Yellow Ribbon Program, visit www.gibill.va.gov.
About University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help students balance education and life in a rapidly changing world. Through flexible schedules, challenging courses and interactive learning, students achieve personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on hold. During the quarter ending May 31, 2009, 420,700 students were enrolled at University of Phoenix, the largest private university in North America. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world.
