Veterans Affairs

Worcester Polytechnic Institute welcomes and supports Veterans and their dependents.  

Our goal is to assist student Veterans and eligible dependents with the application and certification of their Veterans education benefits.

All prospective and current students interested in using their Veterans education benefits are encouraged to contact the Veterans Affairs School Certifying Official (SCO), Patrick LaRiviere, in the Registrar's Office, by email plariviere@wpi.edu, by phone at 508-831-6756, or in person (no appointment necessary).  At Worcester Polytechnic Institute, the role of the Veteran’s Affairs School Certifying Official is to serve as the liaison with the Regional Processing Office in Buffalo, NY.  

Initiating Your GI Bill® Benefits

After you have applied for your benefits, you will be mailed a Certificate of Eligibility which you must submit to Patrick LaRiviere the School Certifying Official.

Request Certification of VA Benefits Each Semester

Notify VA School Certifying Official (SCO) in the Registrar's Office every semester once you have registered for classes and also if you change your schedule. SCO certifies students every semester with the VA for the number of credits registered.  If student does not contact the SCO at WPI, he or she will not be certified for benefits with the VA. 

Yellow Ribbon Program

This program provides additional funding to students whose tuition and fees charge exceeds the in-state, undergraduate cap, or charges in excess of the yearly cap for students enrolled in private institutions, and is for veterans or their designated transferees entitled at the 100% benefit level under the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. VA will match each dollar the school contributes up to 50% of the difference between basic tuition and fees amount payable by VA and the tuition and fee amount charged the student. Visit the Scholarships & Grants page for more information.

Applying for Admissions

WPI is thankful and supportive of those who have served our country and recognizes the unique experiences that veterans and military students bring to our community. Whether you are applying as a traditional undergraduate student, transfer student, or for graduate programming there is a place for you at WPI. Not sure where to start? We are happy to help. For guidance on applying for admission to WPI, contact Julie Chapman, Director of Transfer Admissions & Recruitment Partnerships at chapman@wpi.edu