Is it possible to get reimbursement for CompTIA/Baseline certifications, or even use TA and CA at the same time?

SPC(P) Lawrence Tolentino — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 12:58:46 -0400

Hello Rallypoint Community,

I am currently enrolled at American Military University and am pursuing an Associates of Science in Computer Technology, and eventually a B.S. in Cybersecurity. However, I would like to pursue my Network+ and Security+ certifications.

I have a few crossroads that I am still confused about even after referencing Army Regulation 621-5 (Army Continuing Education System, dated as of 20191028). My declared degree pathway on GoArmyEd is currently defined as my A.S. in Computer Technology; but I am wondering if it is possible to use Credentialing Assistance to pursue my certifications at the same time. I'm worried if I follow the procedures to change my "declared" school and degree path that it'll mess up my TA and even enrollment status for the class I'm currently signed up for; it starts beginning of September 2019.

Before anyone says anything, I am well aware of Western Governors University and their integrated curriculum with certifications; I’ve heard both good and bad about both schools. Also, I am aiming for the Associates degree first as a halfway mile marker to boost my confidence after I get it. I know a couple of 25-series people who have earned their degrees from AMU and originally started at AMU as a General Studies major and eventually took a break from school and decided to start back up again.

I'm just a fellow Soldier just trying to better myself and make myself respectively marketable if I decide to ETS; any words of wisdom or encouragement are greatly appreciated.

Response by SSG Dennis Mendoza made Jul 23 at 2020 4:13 PM

SSG Dennis Mendoza — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 16:13:10 -0400

Soldiers may use both Federal Tuition Assistance (TA) and Credentialing Assistance (CA); however, the combined usage shall not exceed the $4,000 fiscal year limit.

https://home.army.mil/imcom/index.php/customers/credentialing-assistance

credentialing-assistance

Response by SGT Aasim Azad made Jul 23 at 2020 11:30 PM

SGT Aasim Azad — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 23:30:56 -0400

I took my CompTIA Security+ test back in March. Buddy of mine told me to get in touch with VA. I applied for educational benefits and within two weeks I became eligible for it 100% for the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Then I filled out my application for reimbursement for certification since it was required by my job. I sent the form along with how much Sec+ cost (receipt from person VUE) and the certificate I fot when I passed it. Within two weeks, I got reimbursed 349 dollars.