Can the GI bill cover industry credential exams?

2014-01-20T18:16:25-05:00

Simple question: Can the GI Bill cover costs associated with pursuing industry credentials, such as CompTIA?

I've spent two hours bouncing between the multitude of military credentialing websites (eLearning, COOL, ATC), and I have yet to find a definitive answer. I'm pursuing a variety of IT security-related courses this year, and I'm trying to figure out if the military will help offset the cost.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 6:19 PM

2014-01-20T18:19:39-05:00

From experience, I have not seen the GI Bill cover credentials offered at a testing center. You have the preparations for CompTIA via eLearning so my recommendation would be to do the eLearning courses and practice tests and then take the tests and itemize if possible on your taxes as a professional expense. If CompTIA is required for your position check with your mentor and you may be able to get your organization to cover the expenses. The GI Bill will be for technical schooling and if the certification is part of the program then it will be covered.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 6:35 PM

2014-01-20T18:35:19-05:00

LT, the answer is that GI Bill will cover some CompTIA and other certification and licensing fees. Essentially, you get reimbursed for the cost of the test and VA reduces your remaining GI Bill benefits accordingly. To see which licensing and certificate tests are covered, go to: http://inquiry.vba.va.gov/weamspub/buildSearchLCCriteria.do (for CompTIA I typed it in, selected "both" under licensing or certification, and then searched by country, instead of state) and to see how VA charges your GI Bill for the test, go to: https://gibill.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/29

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 7:10 PM

2014-01-20T19:10:42-05:00

I asked the same question to the education guy here and he told me "only if it's thru a school" but I don't think he's the ATeam of education guys.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2014 7:18 PM

2014-01-20T19:18:10-05:00

Education offices are great but the GI Bill is administered by the VA, not DoD, which is why they don't always have the correct answer for you. For questions pertaining to GI Bill, it's best to check out the official website http://www.gibill.va.gov or call the VA education line.

Education and Training Home

The GI Bill provides educational assistance to servicemembers, veterans, and their dependents.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2014 12:21 PM

2014-04-15T12:21:52-04:00

My unit will pay for the certification exam if they feel that you are prepared for it.