POLICY AND PROCEDURE 

Compliance with Dual Certification – Section 1010, PL 116-315 

Code:  POL-VA-PCDC-CATI 
Title:  Procedure for VA Dual Certification – Chapter 33 
Update Date:  06/11/2026 
Responsible Parties:  Registrar’s Office, Busar’s Office 

 

Objective 

To establish a formal procedure that ensures the effective implementation of the dual certification requirement for students who are beneficiaries of Chapter 33 of the GI Bill®, in accordance with Public Law 116-315, Section 1010. 

Scope 

Applies to all students certified under Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill®) enrolled in educational programs approved by PRSAA. 

Procedure Steps 

  1. Enrollment Review and Eligibility Verification
  • The student submits their Certificate of Eligibility (COE). 
  • It is verified that the student is a Chapter 33 beneficiary. 
  1. Initial Certification
  • Performed in VA Once (or the designated system) once the student is officially enrolled. 
  • Includes: term, credits, modality, start and end dates, tuition costs/fees. 
  1. Identification of the “Drop-Add” Period
  • The penalty-free withdrawal period is officially established on the academic calendar. 
  • If not formally established, the range of 30 to 60 days from the first day of classes will be used. 
  1. SubsequentCertification 
  • Performed once the drop-add period has concluded, or before the 60-day deadline from the start of the term, whichever occurs first. 
  • This subsequent certification verifies the student’s continued enrollment and confirms any change in academic load. 
  1. Recordkeeping and Traceability
  • Both certifications are filed digitally. 
  • A log is maintained including: enrollment date, dates of initial and subsequent certification, and responsible personnel. 

Required Evidence 

  • Policy and Procedure for Compliance with Dual Certification – Section 1010, PL 116-315. 
  • Request and Authorization for Certification of GI Bill® Benefits – CATI VA.