Why IT Certification Is the Highest-ROI Use of GI Bill® in 2026
Most veterans use the GI Bill® on a 4-year degree. For many, that is the right choice. For thousands more — especially those who want to be working and earning within 6 months of separation — a vendor-neutral IT certification covered by the GI Bill® is a faster, more direct path.
This guide explains exactly how to use Chapter 33 (Post-9/11), Chapter 30 (Montgomery), and Chapter 31 (VR&E) for IT certification training, and what to look for in an approved program.
Which GI Bill® Programs Cover IT Certifications?
- Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill®): yes, fully covers approved IT certification programs at career colleges like DSDT. Pays tuition directly to the school plus monthly housing allowance (BAH).
- Chapter 30 (Montgomery GI Bill®): yes, used for non-college degree programs. Pays a monthly stipend directly to the veteran.
- Chapter 31 (VR&E): yes, covers approved programs when tied to an employment plan. Often the most generous benefit.
- Chapter 1606 (Selected Reserve): yes, used at approved institutions but at a lower benefit rate.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply
- Confirm eligibility: visit va.gov/education/check-post-9-11-gi-bill-benefits.
- Request a Certificate of Eligibility (COE): online at va.gov or by submitting VA Form 22-1990. Processing takes about 30 days.
- Find a VA-approved school: use the GI Bill® Comparison Tool. DSDT College is listed as a VA-approved institution.
- Apply to the program: at DSDT, this means submitting an enrollment application and emailing your COE to admissions. We complete VA Form 22-1999 on your behalf.
- Confirm your start date: Once VA approves, DSDT issues your enrollment certification.
- Start class: The VA pays as long as you are enrolled and meeting attendance standards.
What to Look For in a GI Bill®-Approved IT Program
- VA-approved with a published WEAMS facility code
- VA School Certifying Official on staff (not outsourced)
- Hands-on labs (not pure online video courses)
- Live instruction (the VA does not approve self-paced-only programs at the same benefit rate)
- Career services included
- Reasonable program length (typically 3-12 weeks per cert)
The Five Best GI Bill® IT Certification Tracks
- CompTIA Trifecta (A+ → Network+ → Security+) — 9 months, best general track.
- Cybersecurity Track (A+ → Security+ → CySA+) — 9 months, targets DoD 8570 and federal cyber roles.
- Networking Track (A+ → Network+ → CCNA) — 9-12 months, targets network administration roles.
- Cloud Track (A+ → AWS Cloud Practitioner → AWS SAA) — 6-9 months, targets cloud roles.
- AI / Emerging Tech Track (AI Prompt Specialist + Security+) — 4-5 months.
DoD 8570 Considerations for Federal Contractors
If you are leaving service into a federal contractor role: Security+ is the credential most often required. Many veterans sequence A+, then Network+, then Security+ in 9 months and walk into federal cyber roles paying $80,000-$110,000.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Enrolling in non-approved programs. The VA will not retroactively cover non-approved schools.
- Burning months on undergraduate prerequisites. Career certifications skip these.
- Stacking multiple programs in one term.
- Choosing pure online programs without live instruction. These pay at half the BAH rate.
DSDT Veteran Admissions Process
DSDT has a dedicated veteran admissions team that handles COE review, enrollment certification (VA Form 22-1999), BAH coordination, registrar reporting, VR&E counselor coordination, and career placement once certified. Most veterans at DSDT pay $0 out of pocket for tuition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my GI Bill® at DSDT?
Yes. DSDT is a VA-approved institution. We accept Chapter 33, 30, and 31 benefits.
Will I get BAH while attending DSDT?
Chapter 33 students enrolled in qualifying in-person or hybrid programs receive monthly BAH. Online-only enrollment pays at half the rate.
Does DSDT also accept MyCAA?
Yes. Military spouses can receive up to $4,000 in MyCAA funding for DSDT certification programs.
Ready to Use Your GI Bill® at DSDT?
Email [email protected] with your COE or call (888) 688-4234. Most veterans complete enrollment in under 2 weeks from initial contact. Explore DSDT veteran-friendly IT programs or request a benefit consultation today.
