As a veteran entering the workforce, you might feel like your options for jobs are limited because you lack the proper educational background to set yourself up for success. Luckily, there are many options available to veterans to get certifications and degrees. Bonus, you can put your GI Bill towards them!
Ways You Can Use Your GI Bill to Advance Your Civlian Career
When recruiters are looking to fill specific positions, they typically like to see that their potential candidates are equipped with relevant certifications. Getting certifications for the field that you’re interested in can set you apart from the rest, and can also make up for what you may lack in practical, on-site experience. Through your GI Bill, the VA will cover up to $2,000 worth of test fees. Some of the certifications you might consider include:
- Human Resources Certifications
(PHR/SHRM/SPHR) - Project Management Certification (PMP)
- Network Certifications
(CCNA, CCNP) - Cybersecurity Certifications (CISSP, Comp TIA Security +, Comp TIA Network +)
All of these certifications are covered by the GI Bill. If you’re interested in a certification that has not been listed, you can use the VA’s search tool to find out whether it can be covered.
You can also have your tuition to graduate school or undergraduate school paid for either partially or in full through the Post-9/11 GI Bill. GI Bill benefits can be used at four-year universities, online colleges, and for graduate programs.
Take Advantage of Career Preparation Programs to Ease Your Military Transition
Figuring out what kind of educational opportunities you want to pursue can be overwhelming. Luckily, you don’t have to forge your path all on your own. ACT NOW Education has a library of free education resources for veterans and active duty military to use.
You might also consider applying to Onward to Opportunity. The O2O program equips veterans and military spouses with career training and free certifications. Onward to Opportunity also partners with ACP, the Veteran and Active Duty Military Spouse Mentoring Program.
Through ACP, you can be paired with a mentor from corporate America who can act as a sounding board for all aspects of your transition. If this sounds like something you would be interested in, don’t wait! Apply today and one of our Operations Associates will reach out to you within 24 hours to start the process.