(a) When authorized by the Secretary of State a Principal, following released from captivity, shall be paid (by advancement or reimbursement) for expenses incurred for subsistence, tuition, fees, supplies, books and equipment, and other educational expenses, while attending an educational or training institution approved in accordance with procedures established by the Veterans Administration comparable to procedures established pursuant to chapters 35 and 36 of title 38 U.S.C. Payments shall be available under this subsection for education or training which occurs on or before—

(1) The end of any semester or quarter (as appropriate) which begins before the date which is 10 years after the day on which the Principal ceases to be in a captive status, or

(2) If the educational or training institution is not operated on a semester or quarter system, the earlier of the end of any course which began before such date or the end of the twelve-week period following that date.

(b) A person eligible for benefits under this subsection shall not be required to separate from Government service in order to undertake the training or education, but while in Government service, may only receive such training or education during off-duty hours or during periods of approved leave.