VA Form 22-5490, Dependents' Application for VA Education Benefits
VA Form 22-5490 is how spouses and children of certain veterans and service members apply for education benefits under Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (Chapter 35) or the Fry Scholarship.
This is the genuine VA PDF, unmodified. Source: VA official page.
What is VA Form 22-5490?
Two programs run through this application. DEA, or Chapter 35, provides education and training benefits to spouses and children of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled from a service-connected condition, or who died in service or from a service-connected cause. The Fry Scholarship provides Post-9/11 GI Bill style benefits to children and spouses of service members who died in the line of duty after September 10, 2001.
The form collects your relationship to the veteran or service member, your chosen program and school or training, and your education history. If you qualify for both programs you generally must elect one, so it is worth comparing them at va.gov before you file.
Who files VA Form 22-5490?
- Children of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled from service-connected conditions
- Spouses and children of veterans who died from a service-connected disability or while in service
- Children and surviving spouses eligible for the Fry Scholarship after a line-of-duty death since September 10, 2001
- Dependents of service members who are missing in action, captured, or forcibly detained
How to fill out VA Form 22-5490
- Confirm the sponsor's qualifying status, and pick the school or training program you plan to attend if you know it.
- Complete your identifying information and your relationship to the veteran or service member.
- Choose the benefit you are applying for, DEA or Fry, and answer the education and prior benefit questions.
- Sign and date the application; a parent or guardian signs for a minor applicant.
- Apply online at va.gov, or mail the form to the VA regional processing office address in the instructions; your school's certifying official can help with the school side.
Quick fill VA Form 22-5490 on this page
Prefer to see the form itself while you type? Open VA Form 22-5490 in the editor to fill it on the actual pages, add a signature, and download.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get both DEA and the Fry Scholarship?
If you are eligible for both, you generally must choose one program, and the choice is usually irrevocable. Compare payment rates and months of entitlement at va.gov, and get advice from a school certifying official or VSO before electing.
When can a child use these benefits?
Chapter 35 benefits for children are generally usable between ages 18 and 26, with some exceptions. Fry Scholarship rules differ. Check the age and time limit rules for your situation at va.gov.
Does using this benefit affect the veteran's own GI Bill?
No. DEA and Fry are separate entitlements for dependents. They are different from transferred Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, which do draw from the service member's own entitlement.