Veteran's Education and Training
The Veterans Education and Training section functions as the State Approving Agency (SAA)
for the State of South Carolina. The SAA is a part of the National Association
of State Approving Agencies (NASAA) which is comprised of state agencies
that have responsibility for the approval and training available through the
GI Bill. The SAA acts on behalf of the Federal Government to evaluate
educational/vocational institutions and training establishments. The SAA
approves programs where veterans and those eligible for VA education
benefits (under Title 38, US Code, Chapters 30, 32, 33, 35, 36, and Title 10
US Code, Chapter 1606 and 1607) can achieve quality training in either an
educational, professional, or vocational objective.The focus of the SAA is the review, evaluation, and approval of quality programs under
both the State and Federal criteria. Coordinators are assigned to various areas
throughout the State and are responsible for a variety of duties. The area
coordinators visit institutions and training establishments seeking initial
approval to evaluate the appropriateness of the programs being offered and
to ensure that these programs meet the standards of State and Federal
guidelines. Area coordinators also evaluate curricula, training outlines,
student training records, physical facilities, and equipment used in
training programs. The coordinators, in evaluating institutions and
programs, meet with faculty/trainers, administrators, and agency directors
seeking a willingness to establish training approval for GI Bill
recipients. Approval may be granted for the following:
- Public/Private degree-granting institutions (Colleges and Universities)
- Professional/Vocational certificate or diploma granting institutions
(Non-College Degree)
- On-Job-Training (OJT) establishments (6 to 24 months training programs)
- Apprenticeship establishments (more than 24 months and annual related
training)
- Flight Training Schools (for pilot licenses and aviation employment)
Upon approval, the SAA provides continuous oversight by conducting annual
on-site supervisory visits. Technical assistance visits are conducted when
deemed necessary by the SAA or at the request of the facility certifying
official. The SAA also conducts outreach activities to foster usage of the
GI Bill.