Veterans interested in careers such as cybersecurity, software development, data analysis, and information technology have a new way to receive training through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The VA is accepting applications for Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses 2.0, known as VET TEC 2.0. The program helps eligible Veterans and transitioning Service Members complete short-term training for jobs in high-demand technology fields.
Approved participants may receive coverage for tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance, and money for books and supplies. Instead of a traditional four-year degree, VET TEC 2.0 focuses on career training that can prepare students for specific technology jobs.
For Veterans interested in entering or advancing in a technology career, VET TEC 2.0 may provide another path to training while helping cover the cost of attending.
Who May Qualify
Veterans may be eligible if they served at least 36 months on active duty, are younger than 62 when VA approves their application, and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
The program is also open to active-duty Service Members who meet the service requirement and are within 180 days of leaving the military.
Applicants do not need to have previously qualified for the GI Bill or another VA education program. Veterans who have already used all their available VA education benefits may also qualify.
Participants with remaining entitlement under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty, or Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance will be charged one month of entitlement for each month of full-time VET TEC 2.0 training. VA says that use will not count toward the usual 48-month limit on combined education benefits.
Training Focuses on Technology Careers
VET TEC 2.0 can cover approved programs involving computer programming, software, data processing, information sciences, and media applications.
Courses vary by provider and may include cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, data analytics, software engineering, technical support, systems administration, mobile application development, and web development.
Veterans should confirm that both the training provider and the specific course they plan to attend are approved for VET TEC 2.0. Approval under another VA education program does not automatically mean a course qualifies.
Approved Programs Are Available in Several States
Approved training providers are located in several states, and some offer distance-learning options. Online programs may allow eligible Veterans to participate without living near a school’s physical location.
The provider list may change as VA reviews additional schools and programs. Applicants can use the VET TEC 2.0 page or the GI Bill Comparison Tool to check whether a program is currently approved.
Training Is Connected to Employment
VET TEC 2.0 places an emphasis on what happens after students complete their training. Providers are expected to help graduates find work in their field of study or continue their education in a related subject.
VA pays participating schools in stages. The provider receives 25% after the student begins training and another 25% after the student successfully completes the program. The remaining 50% is tied to the graduate finding related employment and remaining in the position for the required period, or continuing education in the same field.
Graduates and training providers must report employment or education outcomes to VA. Participants must also verify their enrollment each month to continue receiving the monthly housing allowance.
Participation Is Limited
VET TEC 2.0 is limited to 4,000 paid participants during each federal fiscal year, although Congress may change that number. Veterans interested in the program may want to apply early.
Applicants can complete VA Form 22-10297 online. Veterans who received a Certificate of Eligibility under the earlier VET TEC pilot program must submit a new application because VET TEC 2.0 has different eligibility and benefit rules.
Before selecting a program, Veterans should compare schedules, course formats, certification opportunities, graduation requirements, and employment support. They should also confirm their eligibility with VA and ensure the specific course appears on the current approved program list.
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