Grants & Funding for CompTIA A+ Certification
CompTIA A+ is the classic first step into IT, and you do not necessarily have to pay for the training out of pocket. Between new federal grants, public workforce funding, and scholarships, there are several ways to fund an A+ prep program. This guide explains the funding paths and how a career changer can put them together.
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Why A+ is a smart starting point
CompTIA A+ is widely recognized as an entry-level credential for IT support and help-desk roles, which makes it a common on-ramp for career changers. Because A+ prep is often delivered as a short, focused program, it tends to fit the kinds of training that workforce funding and the new Workforce Pell Grant are designed to support. That combination, a respected entry credential plus a short format, is exactly why A+ is a sensible target if you want to break into tech without committing to a long degree first.
Workforce Pell for A+ programs
Starting July 1, 2026, the Workforce Pell Grant can fund approved short-term programs, and an A+ prep program may qualify if it is offered by an accredited institution, fits the short-term length window, and has been approved as Workforce-Pell-eligible in your state. Because it is a grant, the money does not have to be repaid. Approval happens program by program, so confirm with the provider's financial aid office that the specific A+ program is approved, and file the FAFSA so your eligibility can be assessed.
WIOA, scholarships, and employer support
Beyond Workforce Pell, WIOA funding through your local American Job Center can pay for an A+ program that appears on your state's Eligible Training Provider List, via an Individual Training Account. Many providers also offer scholarships, and some employers will sponsor an A+ certification for current or prospective staff. These sources can often be combined, so a career changer might cover an A+ program with a mix of grant, workforce funding, and scholarship dollars rather than paying the full cost alone.
Putting the funding together
The strongest approach is to stack funding in order of cost to you. Pursue grants you never repay first, such as Workforce Pell and WIOA-funded training, then add scholarships and any employer support, and consider financing only if a gap remains. Start by filing the FAFSA, then contact an American Job Center about WIOA eligibility and ask A+ providers what scholarships they offer. Confirm that the specific program is approved or ETPL-listed, and tell each office about the others so they can coordinate your package.
Featured Opportunities
Registered Apprenticeship - Earn While You Learn
Federal Pell Grant for Eligible Career Programs
Job Corps Free Career Training Program
NSF CyberCorps Scholarship for Service (SFS)
Delaware WIOA Individual Training Account (ITA)
Nebraska WIOA Individual Training Account (ITA)
Georgia WIOA Individual Training Account (ITA)
North Dakota WIOA Individual Training Account (ITA)
New Mexico WIOA Individual Training Account (ITA)
California WIOA Training Voucher (CalJOBS ETP)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get CompTIA A+ training funded?
Often yes. Depending on eligibility and approvals, an A+ prep program may be funded through Workforce Pell, WIOA, scholarships, or employer support, sometimes combined to cover most of the cost.
Does Workforce Pell cover A+ programs?
It can if the A+ program is offered by an accredited institution, fits the short-term length window, and is approved as Workforce-Pell-eligible in your state, starting July 1, 2026. Confirm the specific program.
Can WIOA pay for A+ certification training?
Yes, if the program is on your state's Eligible Training Provider List and you are determined eligible. Contact a local American Job Center to set up an Individual Training Account.
What should a career changer do first?
File the FAFSA, contact an American Job Center about WIOA eligibility, and ask A+ providers about scholarships. Confirm the program is approved or ETPL-listed before enrolling.
Related Pages
Training & certification data provided in part by the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration (DOLETA) and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).