How to Use MyCAA to Become an IT Support Professional

Military family life has its challenges, and building a stable career can be one of the biggest. A nationally recognized credential in a portable, in-demand field can change the picture. In today’s hyper-connected workforce, an IT support professional credential is a smart choice.

The My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) Scholarship offers up to $4,000 in financial assistance for eligible military spouses seeking a career certification. You can use up to $2,000 per year across two fiscal years.

This article will walk you through how to use your benefits to enroll in an IT support professional certification program, step by step.

Who Qualifies for MyCAA?

MyCAA funding is available to individuals married to service personnel in pay grades O-1 to O-3, W-1 to W-3 and E-1 to E-9. Your spouse must be a National Guard, Reserve component or active-duty service member.

Qualifying spouses can receive up to $4,000 total, with a maximum of $2,000 per fiscal year. You must use the funding toward tuition for a certification, licensure program or associate’s degree directly related to a career field.

MyCAA-approved training can be in-person, hybrid or online. Choosing an online program means you can keep studying from anywhere, even if you receive a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) order.

How to Apply for MyCAA, Step by Step

To receive MyCAA funding, you must submit an official application with information about your chosen program. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Create a DS Logon account through the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC)
  2. Go to the MyCAA portal to check your eligibility, complete your registration and create your profile.
  3. Choose a program, such as MedCerts’ fully online IT Support Professional training program.
  4. Speak with a MedCerts Education Consultant to complete your Education and Training plan. The plan is required for MyCAA approval and is program-specific.
  5. Submit your application, including your Education and Training plan. Approval can take up to 14 business days.

Once you’ve received funding approval, you may complete registration for your program and begin your training and start growing your career skills.

What IT Certifications Does MyCAA Cover?

You can use MyCAA funding to work towards CompTIA’s A+ certification, a go-to credential for top employers such as Intel, Dell, HP, Nissan and Blue Cross Blue Shield. It shows your ability to competently perform the key tasks of an IT support professional, including:

  • Installing and configuring hardware, software, systems and networks
  • Monitoring, maintaining and troubleshooting computer systems
  • Repairing and replacing equipment
  • Providing tech support in person or via phone

An A+ certification is the most common credential in IT support job listings and is a solid starting point for numerous IT careers. Many professionals build from an A+ credential to earn the CompTIA Network+, Security+ or Server+ certifications.

Launch Your IT Career With MyCAA-Funded Training

With IT spending projected to exceed $6 trillion, it’s a promising time to start a career in IT. A MyCAA-funded certificate can get you started in support, which can lead to lucrative roles in network administration or cybersecurity.  

Make the move today. Talk to a MedCerts Education Consultant to choose a program and get started on your MyCAA application.

Topics

Military Life

Written by

MedCerts Team

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