(a) Actions required of the individual. In order to obtain benefits under the educational assistance and subsistence allowance program, an individual must—

(1) File a claim for benefits with VA, and

(2) Ensure that the accredited institution certifies his or her enrollment to VA.

(b) VA action upon receipt of a claim. Upon receipt of a claim from an individual VA shall—

(1) Determine if the individual, or the veteran upon whose service the claim is based, has or had basic eligibility;

(2) Determine that the eligibility period has not expired;

(3) Determine that the individual has remaining entitlement;

(4) Verify that the individual is attending an accredited institution;

(5) Determine whether payments may be made for the course, and

(6) Make appropriate payments of educational assistance and subsistence allowance.