Quick MyCAA Facts You Need to Know
Ever heard of MyCAA? If you’re a military spouse, this Department of Defense program could help prepare you for a high-demand, portable career. Read on for some quick MyCAA facts you need to know.
Scholarships for Military Spouses
MyCAA is Military Spouse Career Advancement Account. It’s a professional development program that helps military spouses pay for education like associate degrees and certifications necessary get hired in growing, in-demand professions. Scholarships are available to eligible spouses. The goal is to help spouses gain employment in high-growth fields in positions that are portable.
How Much?
The MyCAA scholarship provides up to $4,000 over two years for military spouses to pursue a license, certification, or associate degree in a portable career.
Eligibility
Eligible people include spouses of service members on active duty in pay grades E-1 to E-5, W-1 to W-2 and O-1 to O-2. Eligible spouses can finish coursework while their military sponsor is on Title 10 military orders. National Guard spouses are included, but Coast Guard spouses are not.
What Does the MyCAA Scholarship Cover?
The MyCAA scholarship covers tuition costs for:
- Education leading to an associate degree
- Getting a license
- Obtaining a certificate or certification
This scholarship does not cover:
- Books
- Equipment and supplies
- Computer and electronic devices
- Student activities
- Entrance exams
- Parking fees
- Liberal arts degrees with no concentration
- Transportation
- Child care
- Study Abroad Programs
- Continuing education credits
How to Do It
To apply, set up an account on the MyCAA website. Find a participating school on the MyCAA list. It’s recommended that you choose a school that is already participating because approval can take up to 60 days. After eligibility is verified, you create a Career and Training Plan and request financial assistance when you’re within 30 days of course start dates. You are responsible for enrolling in each course included in your training plan.
Approved Occupations
The MyCAA approved careers include:
- Automotive Services & Transportation
- Business, Finance & Administration
- Construction
- Education
- Energy
- Hospitality
- Information Technology
- Legal
- Skilled Trades
- Barber
- Cosmetologist
- Designer
- Journalist
- Musical Instrument Repair
- Nail Technician
- Photographer
- Sales Manager
- Translator/Interpreter
- Writer/Editor
Employment Counseling and Referrals
Military spouses can also take advantage of employment readiness counseling to find other sources of educational financial assistance, career opportunities, and support resources like child care, books and supplies, and transportation. MyCAA may also refer MyCAA participants to military friendly employers. Online courses are a super easy way to complete career training at your own pace anywhere with internet. Check out the programs available at Meditec and enroll today.
