About GI bill benefits
The GI Bill is a Department of Veterans Affairs education benefit earned by members of Active Duty, Selected Reserve and National Guard members and their families. GI Bill benefits help you pay for college, graduate school, and training programs.
Since 1944, the GI Bill has helped qualifying Veterans and their family members get money to cover all or some of the costs for school or training.
The GI Bill covers more than just tuition
You can use part of your entitlement to cover the cost of certain tests you need to take to become a licensed or certified professional—or to apply for college or a training course.
The NBHWC board certification exam, called “Health & Wellness Coach Certifying Exam Program (HWCCP)” is an approved test under the GI Bill benefit. The HWCCP exam is also known as the National Board for Heatlh & Wellness Coaching Exam. Individuals that pass this exam earn the designation of National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC). For exam eligibility requirements, please click here.
Frequently asked questions
How much will I be reimbursed for the exam?
$400 – the cost of the exam. The application fee is not covered by the GI Bill reimbursement.
If I fail the exam will my GI bill cover the exam fees again?
Yes! They will pay for tests even if you don’t score high enough to get your license or certification. You can take the same test as many times as the NBHWC allows (3 times).
As a veteran, do I have to work at the VA or can I practice as an entrepreneur or for another organization?
It is up to you! Health & Wellness Coaches (HWC) work on healthcare teams, as entrepreneurs, for government agencies, for private companies, in digital wellness, and in educational settings, just to name some of the areas in this growing profession.
What is the process for reimbursement and who will be reimbursing me?
You will need to register and pay for the exam prior to submitting for reimbursement through the GI Bill. To submit for reimbursement, please follow the instructions below:
Step 1: Fill out an Application for Reimbursement of Licensing or Certification Test Fees (VA Form 22-0803).
- Get VA Form 22-0803 to download or link here.
- Note: Please turn in proof of payment with your application. Proof of payment can be a receipt showing you paid the testing fee.
Step 2: Upload your completed form (VA Form 22-0803) through Ask VA or mail it to your VA regional processing office.
- If you’re uploading the form through Ask VA, you’ll first need to create an account.
- Upload your completed application through Ask VA.
- Find your VA regional processing office.
Is my exam a license or certification?
The exam is a certification. You will receive the National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) credential upon passing the exam.
What is the name of the certifying exam?
Health & Wellness Coach Certifying Exam Program (HWCCP)
What is the complete name, facility code, and mailing address of the NBHWC?
The National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching – Facility Code: 46007705
10 Coach Rd., Escondido, CA, 92025
How long will it take for reimbursement?
Please contact the VA through the links below to inquire about reimbursement timing.
Who to contact if you have questions and additional resources
- Online through Ask VA
- Call the VA at 888-442-4551.
If you have hearing loss, call TTY: 711. - Link to VA – How to use Benefits
