Welcome to the Veterans Freedom Center

At Evergreen Valley College, we proudly support veterans, active service members, and their dependents as they transition into academic and civilian life. 

Our Veterans Freedom Center (VFC) is dedicated to providing the resources, guidance, and community needed to help you succeed. 

Whether you're seeking educational support, navigating VA benefits, or connecting with fellow veterans, our team is here to assist you every step of the way. 

We understand the unique challenges faced by veteran and dependent students, and we're committed to creating a welcoming and empowering environment where you can thrive.
 

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Vets infront of VFC
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Tracie Marie

Thank you, Veterans

Our team is your liaison and primary point of contact to assist with:

  • Veterans Affairs (VA) Education Benefits Certification Process
  • Veteran Counseling Services
  • Assistance with accessing campus/community resources
  • Provide a supportive community for Veteran students

We also offer:  

  • A dedicated center with multiple study lounges, a kitchenette, and a meditation patio
  • Free printing services
  • Priority registration for Veteran and Dependent students
  • Direct access to Veteran educational counseling
  • Assistance with accessing campus and community resources
     

Veteran Student Using Benefits

New Veteran Student

You are considered a new student in our program if you have not used your VA educational benefits at EVC before. 

Follow the Veterans Benefits Certification Instructions Form: New Students. 

Use the form as a checklist to keep a record of what you have completed to receive your Educational Benefits.  

You may also use the Required Documents Checklist to keep track of what you need to gather and submit

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Returning Veteran Student

You are considered a returning student if you have previously attended EVC but have not registered for more than 2 consecutive semesters.  

Follow the Veterans Benefits Certification Instructions Form: New Students. 

Use the form as a checklist to keep a record of what you have completed to receive your Educational Benefits.   

You may also use the Required Documents Checklist to keep track of what you need to gather and submit.
 

Continuing Veteran Students

:You are considered a continuing student when you register for classes each semester/term. 

Complete Class Certification Form each semester you are taking classes at EVC and submit it in accordance with your approved Education Plan to evcvet@evc.edu.

If there are any changes in your Class Certification Form, please contact our office as soon as possible.

Please note, the VA will not pay for any courses that are not approved on your Ed Plan.

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VA Chapter Benefits

Compare VA Education Benefits: Compare the education benefits, review the eligibility criteria for each program, and discover the number of months of benefits you may receive and the time frame in which you must use them.

GI Bill® Comparison Tool: Compare tuition and housing benefits for different institutions and make the most of your benefits.
 

New Veteran Student

You are considered a new student in our program if you have not used your VA educational benefits at EVC before. 

Follow the Veterans Benefits Certification Instructions Form: New Students

Use the form as a checklist to keep a record of what you have completed to receive your Educational Benefits.  

You may also use the Required Documents Checklist to keep track of what you need to gather and submit. 
 

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VA Chapter Benefits

VA Education Benefits for Survivors and Dependents: If you are a dependent or surviving spouse of a Veteran, you might qualify for VA education benefits.

Cal-Vet College Fee Waiver: The College Fee Waiver for Veteran Dependents waives mandatory tuition and fees at any California Community College, California State University, or University of California campus. However, it does not cover costs for books, parking, or room and board. Dependents of Veterans may qualify under one of four available plans. 

If you qualify for Cal-Vet benefits, please contact the Financial Aid Office at evcfa@evc.edu.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

You can view our FAQ's by clicking here. 

If you have any additional questions, please contact us at evcvet@evc.edu with your full name and EVC student ID number. 

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Minimum Unit Requirement

Please use the following flow chart to determine minimum unit requirement: 

 

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Minimum Unit Requirement Flow Chart

Student Representation Fee

Effective February 20th 2024, the VA will no longer pay for the Student Representation Fee ($2). 

Students have the option to pay this fee or decline the charges by submitting a request through the Self-Service.

Here is a PDF with instructions on how to opt-out of paying the Student Representation Fee through Self-Service. 

Hours/Contact

Office Hours

Spring 2025 Hours:

Mon-Thur: 8:30am-5:00pm
Fridays 9:00am-1:00pm 

Connect With Us

P:    408-223-6789
E:    evcvet@evc.edu
A:    S-1027, Student Services Complex, 3095 Yerba Buena Rd. San Jose, CA 95135

​Center Services 

  • Computer lab with free printing
  • Kitchenette with microwave
  • Student lounge area

Please call our office at 40-223-6789 to schedule an appointment with our Veterans counselor. 

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Contact

Mike Osorio

Director

Student Services Complex - A - 1001

Iriana Zavala Camacho

Program Specialist

Student Services Complex - S - 1027

Tiffani P. Lam

Admission and Records Lead Coordinator

Student Services Complex - S - 1089