Training Time Calculator
Calculate the training time percentage for VA certification reporting
Calculate Training Time
Select the type of academic term
Enter the number of credit hours the student is enrolled in
Training Time Categories
Full-Time
12+ credit hours (undergraduate)
9+ credit hours (graduate)
3/4 Time
9-11 credit hours (undergraduate)
7-8 credit hours (graduate)
1/2 Time
6-8 credit hours (undergraduate)
5-6 credit hours (graduate)
Less than 1/2 Time
1-5 credit hours (undergraduate)
1-4 credit hours (graduate)
Important Notes
- •Training time affects benefit amounts, especially Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA)
- •Graduate students have different thresholds than undergraduates
- •Non-standard programs may have custom full-time definitions
- •Always verify with your institution's definition of full-time
- •Clock hours and contact hours have different calculations
Quick Reference
Semester System: Typically 15-16 weeks
Quarter System: Typically 10-12 weeks
Summer Terms: May have reduced credit requirements for full-time
Need more help? View Chapter 33 Guide
Understanding Training Time
What is Training Time?
Training time is the rate of pursuit used to determine a student's VA education benefits. It's calculated based on the number of credit hours (or clock hours) a student is enrolled in compared to what the institution considers full-time for that program.
Why Training Time Matters
Training time directly affects:
- Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) amount for Chapter 33 students
- Monthly benefit amount for Chapter 30, 1606, and other programs
- Rate of benefit exhaustion (how quickly benefits are used)
- Eligibility for certain VA programs and services
Reporting Requirements
VASCOs must accurately report training time on all certifications and amendments. Changes in training time (such as dropping a class) must be reported immediately to avoid overpayments.
Pro Tip: Keep this calculator bookmarked for quick reference during certification periods. For automated training time calculations with SIS integration, explore our premium software.
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