Thinking about a GI bill education? For starters, start saving your money. While VA education benefits can make college much more affordable, you’ll need at least two months of expense money saved up as you wait for the paperwork to process. Everything owed will eventually be paid back to you, but there’s still waiting period to receive payment that you’ll have to think about. Once the payments process, the checks are fairly consistent, but waiting for the paperwork may take longer than you planned. You’re better off planning for more than you’ll actually need. Savings in the bank can greatly ease the stress of college.

The good news is you now have more flexibility in choosing programs and career paths. The government changed the requirements for GI Bill education in 2009 by allowing trade schools to be considered for VA education benefits. Prior to that, the money could only be used at an institute of higher learning. As military life often teaches many practical skills that can easily apply to a trade, it makes sense that the benefits be extended to trade schools as well. Plenty of mechanics learned their training in the army, and even mess hall cooking have inspired culinary careers that go on to open great restaurants.

Another important thing to remember is that the clock is ticking. To take advantage of VA education benefits, you have a time limit. The benefits end after 36 months, regardless if the degree has been completed or not. Take full advantage of GI bill education by asking yourself several questions up front. Will you attend a traditional campus school or an online one instead? What degree will you seek, and what career will you pursue in the long run? It’s important to have a solid answer to these questions early. After those 36 months, you’re on your own nickel.

At the same time, choose something that you love. GI bill education affects the rest of your life. Choose something that makes you happy. It may take a creative approach to get what you love and what’s sustainable in the job market to agree, but the technology exists to make it possible. Think outside the box, and make the world your own. VA education benefits are a great start, but only the beginning. The real journey lies ahead.

Ray Stabler is the author of this article and is a very educated individual when it comes to VA education benefits and a GI Bill education.