Learning Guides
Army Credentialing Assistance: Plan the Credential and Funding Path
Review current Army CA limits, ArmyIgnitED steps and the approvals to confirm before selecting credential training.
Match the credential to your goal
Army COOL helps Soldiers explore civilian credentials related to military skills and career interests. Army Credentialing Assistance may help eligible Soldiers fund approved credentials and associated training. LaneCert staff can help prospective students review the current credential, training and funding pathway before enrollment.
Current policy checkpoints
The Army’s published CA policy sets an annual $2,000 limit, one credential per year and three credentials in ten years. Aviation credentials have a $1,000 annual limit. Taking the associated credential exam is required; otherwise training costs may be recouped. First-time users complete ArmyIgnitED training before requesting assistance.
Effective March 19, 2026, requests require supervisor or commander-representative approval. Commissioned officers are excluded from new CA participation; the Army describes a transition provision for credential goals established before that date. Confirm your current eligibility and any exception with the Army education team.
Confirm before enrollment
Use Army COOL to identify the credential and ArmyIgnitED to follow the current request process. Review the provider, training description, dates, costs, exam and delivery format together. The Army’s approval applies to the specific request, so confirm classroom, online or hybrid arrangements through that process before committing funds.
Bring LaneCert your training interests and the credential you are reviewing. Staff confirm the current program and funding pathway with you; individual approval remains part of the Army process.