VETERANS
Hazlewood Act
Up to 150 hours of tuition exemption at Texas public colleges for veterans, spouses, and dependent children — a state benefit that's separate from the federal GI Bill.
TEXAS EDUCATION BENEFIT
Overview
Most veterans in Texas know about the GI Bill. Fewer know that Texas offers its own education benefit on top of it — one that can cover tuition and most fees at any public college or university in the state, even after your federal benefits run out. This page walks you through who qualifies and how to apply. Wilco Veterans is not a certified VSO — always confirm your specific eligibility with the Texas Veterans Commission or your school's veterans office before you make enrollment decisions.
Your application journey
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You'll generally qualify if Texas was your home of record when you entered the service (or you entered the service in Texas, or were already a Texas resident), you served at least 181 days of active duty, and you were honorably discharged.
Check your federal benefit status first
Request a Certificate of Eligibility for federal GI Bill benefits from VA.gov. Hazlewood is designed to work alongside — not replace — Chapter 33 or Chapter 31 benefits.
Register with the Texas Veterans Commission
Create an account in the Hazlewood Student Hours Online database. This is where your remaining hours get tracked across every Texas public school you attend.
Apply through your school
Submit the school's Hazlewood application along with a copy of your DD-214 and proof of Texas residency — before the tuition deadline for the semester you're enrolling in.
Track your hours each term
Log back into the TVC portal every semester. Your used and remaining hours carry with you no matter which Texas public school you attend.
What to gather
Helpful Links
Not sure where to start, or juggling both Hazlewood and federal benefits at once? Book a Resource Navigation Call and we'll help you sort out which to use first