Serving in the Army and interested in earning an IT or cybersecurity certification?
The Army Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) program, combined with Credentialing Assistance (CA), can provide up to $2,000 per year to help pay for training, certification fees, and recertification costs. You can pursue up to 3 credentials for every 10 years of service.
What Is Army COOL?
Army COOL is the Army's credentialing portal, where you can explore approved "In Demand Credentials" industry credentials, including:
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA SecurityX (formerly CASP+)
- CompTIA Server+
Funding is provided through the CA program.
You Don't Have to Stay Within Your MOS
One of the biggest benefits of Army CA is its flexibility. Eligible soldiers can use funding to develop skills that support both current military responsibilities and future civilian career goals, even if the credential is outside their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
Who Is Eligible?
Army Credentialing Assistance is available to many members of the Army, including:
- Active-duty enlisted soldiers
- Non-commissioned officers
- Warrant officers
- Army National Guard members in active drilling status
- Army Reserve members in qualifying status
Funding is subject to availability, so it's best to submit your requests as early as possible.
What Does Army Credentialing Assistance Cover?
CA covers up to $2,000 annually for:
- Training (classroom, online, or hands-on)
- Certification exams and recertification fees
- Study materials, textbooks, and manuals
If your course and certification costs exceed that amount, you may be able to combine Credentialing Assistance with Tuition Assistance (up to a combined maximum of $4,500).
529 Plan Tip
Army CA should be your first source of funding. If you've already set aside money in a 529 education savings plan, you may be able to use those funds for eligible certification-related expenses that are not covered by Army CA. Check with your plan administrator for current eligibility rules.
For more information about using 529 plan funds for certification-related expenses, click here.
The Four-Step Application Process
1. Find Your Credential
Search the Army COOL catalog for the certification that aligns with your career goals. CompTIA certifications are listed under several career areas in the pull-down menu.
2. Create an Education Goal in ArmyIgnitED
Log in to ArmyIgnitED and create a CA education goal.
3. Submit a Credentialing Assistance Request
Select Apply for Credentialing Assistance within ArmyIgnitED and provide:
- The credential
- Training provider cost information or quote (credentialing expenses are not reimbursed after the fact)
- Course or exam dates
- Any required supporting documentation
The request is reviewed by the Army Credentialing Assistance Program Office before funding is approved.
4. Complete the Training and Report Results
After approval, complete the approved training and/or take the certification exam. Results must be reported through ArmyIgnitED (either by you or the training provider).
Get Started Today!
Taking a few minutes to explore COOL today could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in training and certification costs tomorrow. Whether you're building skills for your current role or preparing for a civilian career, CompTIA and Army COOL can help you get there.