The Air Force Voluntary Credentialing Program enables eligible and authorized Air Force and Space Force Professionals to obtain and maintain professional certifications that will enhance their career opportunities while serving in the military as well as increasing their competitiveness in advancing their post-military civilian careers.
COVERED COSTS
- preparatory course
- study materials
- exam fees
- taxes, administrative or processing fees
Members may also receive funding for
- periodic recertification for previously funded AFCOOL credentials if they maintain eligibility and have not reached the $4,500 lifetime cap.
Recertification funding will not be approved to pay for additional courses or late fees.
STUDY MATERIALS
Study materials and prep courses are covered by AF COOL. Funding for study materials is
- limited to a maximum of $500 per credential goal (provided the member maintains eligibility and does not exceed the $4,500 lifetime cap)
There are two comprehensive options to prepare for the certification exam:
- An in-person skill training course for units (Vendor: Pose Tech Corp. This option is not covered by AF COOL, contact your unit leader to schedule via our military liaison)
- An online master course for individuals (Vendor: Pose Tech Corp. This option is covered by AF COOL)
The online master course is also approved for 20 Continuing Education hours for Physical Therapists and Athletic Trainers.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is there a service obligation?
Members separating or retiring must have their funding requests approved by AFCOOL at least 60 days prior to their DOS.
Is This Exam Approved for Credentialing Assistance?
Yes, this credential – Certified Running Technique Specialist (Pose Method) and the related prep course are approved for funding.
Who is the Funding approved for?
The AF COOL Program is only available for enlisted members of the RegAF and members of the AF Reserve and Air National Guard on Title 10/32 orders.
What are the eligibility requirements?
Enlisted RegAF, USSF, AFRES, and ANG component members participating in the Air Force COOL program must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Possess a 5-skill level in their Primary Air Force Specialty Code
- Do not have an UIF, are not on a Control Roster, and are current on their most recent Fitness test at the time of application
- Have a profile in AFVEC with an approved credentialing goal
- Must obtain supervisor approval and complete the entire credential while on active duty status
How Do I schedule the Certification Exam?
We developed an automated process to accommodate scheduling and access. The most important part is for you to receive the funding. After that our system will guide you.
To begin the process please follow these steps:
- Request the Quote
- Get approved for funding
- Receive access to the Exam
Please contact us if you need additional paperwork or receipts for reimbursement.
What Fees Are Associated with this Credential?
Certification Exam: $890
Recertification: $295
Recertification Cycle: Every 5 years starting from the date of the original certification
Pro Membership: $95/year (1st year free)
Does the credential need to be related to the service member‘s rating or civilian employee’s job?
Military personnel: No. The requested credential does not have to be related to rating, officer specialty, or collateral duty. IAW ALCOAST 177/22, service members may request funding for any credential on the CG COOL site.
Civilian personnel: Per ALCOAST 203/23, Credentialing Assistance for participating civilian employees is only authorized for credentials that are related to the employee’s current position and the anticipated needs of the Coast Guard. Civilians can find credentials related to their federal job series here