Funding for Credentials

DoD Civilian COOL does not provide funding for costs associated with initial credential attainment and maintaining and renewing the credential. Each service branch has different policies regarding funding for civilian employees. In general, funding for civilian employees is determined and budgeted for at the Command level through Local Organizations. Personnel required to attain and maintain credentials to carryout their job responsibilities might be able to receive funding for the credential. For example, across the federal government, Cyber IT/Cybersecurity Workforce (Cyber IT/CSWF) personnel may have credentials funded if the credentials are required by their work. See the Cyber IT/CSWF page in this section for more information.

Finally, for Veterans and others eligible for GI Bill Funding, you may be able to have credentialing fees paid for through the GI Bill.

If you are not aware of funding opportunities, your supervisor is likely to be the best resource for you to determine whether funding might be available.

Find out more about available funding resources: