UChicago Bootcamps & VA Education Benefits (Ch. 33 & Ch. 35)
The University of Chicago Bootcamps offer career-focused, skills-based training programs designed for individuals seeking to transition into high-demand fields or strengthen their professional skillsets. These programs are well-suited for veterans, service members, and eligible dependents who plan to use VA education benefits under Chapter 33 (Post‑9/11 GI Bill®) or Chapter 35 (DEA).
Program Overview
UChicago Bootcamps are immersive, online programs that emphasize practical, job-ready skills. Instruction is delivered through a structured curriculum that combines live virtual sessions, hands-on projects, and guided support from experienced instructors. Programs are designed to be completed in months rather than years, allowing participants to gain marketable skills efficiently.
VA-Eligible Bootcamps
VA Education Benefits Compatibility
Many UChicago Bootcamp programs may be eligible for VA education benefits, subject to VA approval and individual eligibility. Students using Chapters 33 and 35 benefits may receive coverage for tuition and fees. The monthly housing allowance is not applicable for those completing a non-credit bootcamp.
Eligibility, benefit amounts, and approval status vary by program and individual circumstances. Participants are encouraged to confirm program approval and benefit usage prior to enrollment.
Who Should Consider These Programs
These bootcamps are ideal for:
- Veterans transitioning from military service to civilian careers
- Eligible spouses and dependents using Chapter 35 benefits
- Individuals seeking accelerated pathways into technology, data, or leadership roles
- Learners who prefer structured, skills-based training with measurable outcomes
Next Steps
Prospective students interested in using VA education benefits should consult with OMAC and the bootcamp enrollment team to confirm program eligibility, enrollment timelines, and required documentation. The VA treats all bootcamps and certificate programs as "reimbursement" programs, and the learner must
Utilizing VA Education Benefits for a Bootcamp of Certificate Program
For general questions about the program or documents, please contact OMAC at veterans@uchicago.edu
IMPORTANT: Reimbursement is available for the ®Gi Bill Post 9/11 GI Bill benefit (Chapter 33) and Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (Chapter 35) programs. Complete this application to apply for reimbursement of a Prep Course designed to prepare you for a Licensing or Certification Test (one course per form). In order for a Prep Course to be reimbursed, you must apply and establish eligibility separately for either Chapter 33 or Chapter 35 by completing either VA Form 22-1990, Application for VA Education Benefits or VA Form 22-5490, Dependents' Application for VA Education Benefits, if not done so already. If you need to apply first, please visit the VA website at www.va.gov/education/how-to-apply.
Those completing the IronCircle (ThriveDx) version of the Cybersecurity Bootcamp:
*Click here for an example of the Reimbursement Form neeed by the VA.
Those completing a HyperionDev version of either bootcamp:
*Click here for an example of the Reimbursement Form neeed by the VA.
*No monthly housing allowance will be provided for those using chapter 33*
Preparatory courses for Licensure and Certification Tests are only payable to a student entitled to reimbursement under chapter 33 or chapter 35.
There is no limit to the number of Preparatory courses a beneficiary can take. However, beneficiaries must have remaining entitlement and their delimiting date must not have passed.
These courses are paid as a reimbursement to the beneficiary in the same manner that LAC tests are paid. For information on pay rates (full-time, part-time, etc.), the student should call the VA at 888-442-4551 to determine their specific rates.
You can also view the VA's Preparatory Course Fact Sheet for any questions regarding what is covered under the reimbursement.
Documents Needed by OMAC for Benefit Usage:
1. Veteran Benefit Information and Application Form
2. A copy of your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) or print screen from ebenefits showing your eligibility for VA benefitsTo access the printscreen from ebenefits please follow the steps below:
Click on manage across the top screen
Then click education
Then click Post-9/11 enrollment status
Please note that you must upgrade your ebenfits account to "premium" status to be able to conduct the above steps
If not sure about your benefit selection or you have other questions, you can speak with an OMAC representative by clicking here.
Upon Successful Completion of your Program of Study:
1. You must submit your 22-10272 form, invoice, and program completion letter/certificate to the VA for reimbursement.
2. You can obtain your invoice and completion letter from your advising team.
3. VA Form 22-10272 Request for Reimbursement of Preparatory (Prep) Course for Licensing or Certification Test can be downloaded by clicking here.