Jul 09, 2015 02:04 PM EDT By Staff Reporter, UniversityHerald Reporter

Vermont is now providing in-state college tuition to veterans from around the country.

Under the new policy, which took effect July 1, all military veterans and active service members who are eligible for G.I. Bill benefits will "receive in-state tuition without having to wait until they have lived in the state for a full twelve months," Campus Reform reported.

"We are indebted to our nation's veterans and are pleased to offer in-state tuition rates to all who come to the Vermont State Colleges to further their education," Jeb Spaulding, chancellor of the Vermont state colleges, said at a news conference on June 29.

There is at least a $22,000 difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition rates, Campus Reform reported. Students who come from out of state usually pay more for their education.

"We know that a post-secondary credential is one of the best routes to a good job. We recognize that military connected students bring a wealth of strengths as well as unique challenges to the college environment. The VSC welcomes you and stands ready to support you as you earn your degree," Community College of Vermont President Joyce Judy said in a statement.

According to the Associated Press, a similar program exists in other states, but Spalding hopes out-of-state veterans take advantage of the college education in Vermont.

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