Education and Training.
Foreign Program Approval Information for Schools
How do I apply for approval of a program of education?
To apply for approval of a program of education, an official from the school that is authorized to commit the school to an agreement with the VA should complete and submit the Foreign Schools Approval Requirement. The VA will evaluate the information and provide the school official with an approval determination on the program of education.
VA Form 22-0976 and supporting documentation should be submitted via email to federal.approvals@va.gov
What if the course is distance learning?
Independent study (distance learning) courses must be accredited by a national agency or association recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.
What if we are a foreign institution?
In order to be approved, a course offered in a foreign country must lead to a standard college degree or its equivalent.
What is the Responsible Education Mitigating Options and Technical Extensions (REMOTE) Act of 2021?
See our letter dated January 18, 2022, explaining the REMOTE Act of 2021. This letter contains important information about exemptions from requirements in order to receive or maintain approval.
These changes are immediately incorporated in our approval processes for pending applications. Previously denied applications must be re-submitted.
Questions should be directed to federal.approvals@va.gov.
What is the direct deposit requirement for foreign institutions?
See our memo dated June 7, 2023, explaining the direct deposit requirement for foreign institutions to maintain program approval or participate in VA GI Bill. This letter will serve as official notification to all foreign educational institutions participating in VA GI Bill education benefit programs that the use of Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), commonly known as “direct deposit,” is a requirement for approval.
There are two options that are outlined in the memo. Once you have completed one of the options, you will then be required to provide account information to VA.
Questions can be directed to federal.approvals@va.gov.
What if I am a student seeking information on attending a foreign instution?
See our Foreign progams page for students.
What if I have a question?
Contact us by using Ask VA.
The Department of Veterans Affairs may consult with the Department of Education and review any information about the foreign school that the Department of Education makes available.
