The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) and the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) have collaborated to create a portal that automates the education benefits application process for Pennsylvania National Guard (PNG) members and their families. The new electronic process - which can be completed from any device such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone - allows for submission of applications for the Military Family Education Program (MFEP) and the Education Assistance Program (EAP), as well as the ability to update enrollment information, assign beneficiaries, and change credit allocations.

Officially launched on March 1, the new portal was created quicker than expected and under budget and provides an administrative cost reduction. By partnering with PHEAA and leveraging technology, the DMVA can now provide a faster and more convenient experience when National Guard members and their families apply for the benefits they have earned.

Prior to automation, paper applications and enrollment changes and updates were sent out to service members through their unit of assignment, then sent to the PNG Education and Incentives Center for manual entry into its system for approval. Once approved, the paperwork was sent by courier to PHEAA for manual entry into its system.

To learn more about education benefits, readers may visit http://www.pa.ng.mil/education/.