For U.S. veterans

We encourage U.S. veterans to apply to Cleveland Institute of Art as first-time freshmen or transfer students. In fact, we are participants in The Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program (Yellow Ribbon Program) and fully approved under Veteran's Law. 

Liane Engstrom served as a Marine prior to becoming a Painting major at CIA.

Yellow Ribbon Program

At CIA through the Yellow Ribbon Program provision of the Post-9/11 GI Bill^®, eligible U.S. veterans and their dependents may qualify for an opportunity to receive fully funded tuition.

Program Benefits

Between the GI Bill, CIA’s contribution, and a matching contribution from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), our Yellow Ribbon Program benefits cover four full years of tuition for qualifying students. We are proud to offer the largest benefits of any Ohio art school, and one of the best among America’s specialized art and design colleges (AICAD). 

How the Program Works

Signed into law in 2009, the Post-9/11 GI Bill pays for in-state public tuition and fees for eligible U.S. veterans, service members, reservists, and National Guard members, and it may be transferable under certain circumstances to a spouse or dependent. The Yellow Ribbon Program supplements the GI Bill by allowing private or out-of-state schools with higher tuition to contribute additional funds that are matched by the VA. The Post-9/11 GI Bill offers the most comprehensive education benefit package since the original 1944 GI Bill, which funded education or training for 7.8 million World War II veterans.            

For additional details, visit the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. Don't hesitate to contact our Admissions Office for assistance.

Veterans’ Benefits 

CIA’s Bachelor of Fine Arts program is approved for VA educational benefits. VA certifications for benefits are processed through the Registrar’s Office. You must be accepted and enrolled in the degree program before enrollment certifications are forwarded to the VA, and our Registrar’s Office needs to certify every year in which you are enrolled to maintain VA benefits. Questions regarding VA benefits should be directed to the Registrar’s Office by phone (216.421.7321) or by email.

Have Questions?

We pride ourselves on providing a personal connection to our prospective and current students, so if you have any questions about requirements, please contact our Office of Admissions.