Yellow Ribbon Program


The Yellow Ribbon program is a VA program only for Post-9/11 GI Bill users at the 100% rate who are considered nonresident students and who do not meet the Armed Forces Residency Benefit (AFRB) criteria. Please keep in mind that for most students using Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, the AFRB is the better/more applicable option.

Before you complete the Yellow Ribbon form:

  • Confirm you have the Post-9/11 GI Bill at the 100% rate by obtaining your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA.
  • Confirm you are NOT eligible for the Armed Forces Residency Benefit (AFRB). If you are AFRB-eligible, it is more beneficial for you to complete the AFRB process and you do not need to do Yellow Ribbon.
  • Complete your KU Request for Benefits form each semester to activate your VA education benefits at KU. The Yellow Ribbon form is NOT a substitute for requesting to use your VA education benefits.

Once you have completed these steps, submit your Yellow Ribbon application each semester.