Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

New students

If you are using your VA Benefits at PCC for the first time, follow the steps below.

1. Apply
   • Apply to PCC: you must be admitted with a declared program to use VA education benefits. Once admitted, you’ll get a PCC email address (all school communication will be sent here).
   • Apply for VA education benefits: the VA advises allowing 6-8 weeks for processing. You only need to apply the first time you use your benefits.
   • Apply for financial aid: use the FAFSA website and school code: 003213.
2. Complete orientation: Learn about PCC in the New Student Orientation.
3. Create a file: set up a file with PCC’s Veterans Education Benefits Office (VEBO).
4. Sign up for VA advising workshop: this virtual workshop must be completed before registering for your second term.
5. Plan your first term:
   • Complete any necessary placement tests.
   • Send in transcripts and request an evaluation when they arrive.
   • Meet with your Academic Advisor to make an academic plan.
6. Register for classes: students using VA education benefits have priority registration! Follow your academic plan/Grad Plan to register for classes that apply to your degree.
7. Submit your schedule: submit your schedule for certification every term. The VEBO office will confirm that your classes are degree-applicable and certify them with the VA. Keep an eye on your MyPCC email for any important updates or alerts.

See a printer-friendly version of this checklist here: New Student Checklist

Continuing students

Complete these steps each term to use your VA education benefits.

1. Register for classes: Students using VA education benefits have priority registration! Follow your academic plan/Grad Plan to register for classes that apply to your degree.
2. Submit your schedule: submit your schedule for certification every term. The VEBO office will confirm that your classes are degree-applicable and certify them with the VA. Keep an eye on your MyPCC email for any important updates or alerts.

Returning students

If it’s been more than one year since you’ve used your benefits at PCC, follow these steps to reactivate your account:

1. Apply
   • Apply to PCC: you must be admitted with a declared program to use VA education benefits. Once admitted, you’ll get a PCC email address (all school communication will be sent here).
   • Apply for VA education benefits: the VA advises allowing 6-8 weeks for processing. You only need to apply the first time you use your benefits.
   • Apply for financial aid: use the FAFSA website and school code: 003213.
2. Create a file: set up a file with PCC’s Veterans Education Benefits Office (VEBO).
3. Register for classes: students using VA education benefits have priority registration! Follow your academic plan/Grad Plan to register for classes that apply to your degree.
4. Submit your schedule: submit your schedule for certification every term. The VEBO office will confirm that your classes are degree-applicable and certify them with the VA. Keep an eye on your MyPCC email for any important updates or alerts.