For those who have proudly served, the journey doesn’t stop when the uniform comes off. At SSI, we believe a Veteran’s next mission should be just as rewarding and purpose-driven as their last. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce the launch of SSI’s VA GI Bill® Reimbursement Program, designed to support U.S. Veterans in using their GI Bill® benefits to earn recreational and professional scuba diving certifications through approved SSI Training Centers across the U.S.

Transform Their Passion into a Profession
Whether your Veteran customers dream of exploring coral reefs, leading dive tours, working in marine conservation, or training the next generation of divers, becoming an SSI Professional can open doors they may never have known existed.

The SSI VA GI Bill® Reimbursement Program offers SSI Training Centers across the U.S. a unique opportunity to expand their customer base by welcoming those who have served into the world of scuba diving. We are incredibly excited to bring this opportunity to our Centers in an easy, streamlined manner.
Thanks to the VA’s certification and license reimbursement program, eligible veterans can now receive reimbursement for the cost of SSI diving certifications, including those leading to professional-level credentials. From their first recreational dives to becoming a dive professional, the GI Bill® helps remove financial barriers and makes diving careers more accessible than ever before.
 
How the SSI VA GI Bill® Reimbursement Program Works
SSI has made it simple for Veterans to leverage their hard-earned benefits. Here are the steps your Veteran customers should take to participate:
1. CheckTheirEligibility
Verify their current GI Bill® status at va.gov/education/eligibility to ensure sufficient allotment remains.
2. RegisterwithSSI
Create a free SSI account at divessi.com and affiliate with a participating SSI Training Center.
3. CompleteTheirTraining
Choose their path—recreational certifications, specialty courses, and/or professional-level credentials—and complete the required training with an SSI Training Center.
4. FileforReimbursement
After certification, complete VA Form VBA-22-0803 with the course details and the paid invoice. Then, mail it to the corresponding VA facility mentioned at the bottom of the form for the Veteran’s area to receive reimbursement.

The SSI Military Programs initiative is more than just a certification opportunity—it’s a way to serve again, this time in the civilian world, by leading, teaching, and inspiring others beneath the waves.
Whether your customers are transitioning out of the military or looking to expand their post-service career, the ocean is calling—and SSI is here to help answer it.