Veterans Education

The Veterans Education and Training Section is the State Approving Agency (SAA) for Missouri and is located in Jefferson City with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The Missouri SAA is responsible for approving GI Bill®(link is external) programs in Missouri for veterans and other eligible individuals. 

The approval process is on-going and involves regular monitoring of the programs. Missouri has over 20,000 eligible people enrolled in programs. The programs are found in approximately 1,000 schools and training establishments and businesses. The VA pays over $40,000,000 annually in education and training benefits in Missouri. The Section assists VA in conducting mandatory compliance visits to ensure benefits are paid properly and maintain approval of programs. 

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill(link is external).

Veterans:  To determine eligibility for VA benefits, call toll free (888) 442-4551.

Due to COVID-19, starting November 23, 2020, in-person services at VE facilities will be provided by appointment only. All other VE services will be provided virtually. Please find local office phone and email information below. 

Veterans Education and Training Staff

Jefferson City Office - 1-877-530-2765

Kansas City Office

St. Louis Office 

Troops to Teachers

 877-530-2765 -  dese.troopstoteachers@dese.mo.gov