How to Fund CompTIA Network+ Training
CompTIA Network+ builds the networking fundamentals behind most IT infrastructure work, and there are several ways to fund the training without paying full price. New federal grants, public workforce funding, and scholarships can all apply. This guide explains the funding paths for Network+ and how to combine them as you move up the IT ladder.
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Where Network+ fits in an IT path
Network+ is a step up from entry-level fundamentals, validating the networking knowledge that supports systems administration, infrastructure, and security roles. Many people pursue it after A+ as part of a credential ladder toward better-paying tech jobs. Because Network+ prep is usually a short, focused program, it tends to fit the training that workforce funding and the new Workforce Pell Grant are built to support, which makes it a practical target for funding rather than a course you must pay for entirely on your own.
Workforce Pell for Network+ programs
Starting July 1, 2026, the Workforce Pell Grant can fund approved short-term programs, and a Network+ 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. As a grant, the money does not have to be repaid. Approval is program by program, so confirm with the provider's financial aid office that the specific Network+ program is approved, and file the FAFSA so your eligibility can be assessed.
WIOA, scholarships, and employer support
Workforce Pell is not the only option. WIOA funding through your local American Job Center can pay for a Network+ program on your state's Eligible Training Provider List through an Individual Training Account. Providers often offer scholarships, and some employers sponsor networking certifications for staff or new hires, especially when the role requires them. These sources can frequently be combined, so you may be able to fund Network+ with a mix of grant, workforce, and scholarship dollars instead of covering it alone.
Funding a credential ladder
Because Network+ often sits in the middle of an IT path, it helps to think about funding the whole ladder rather than one exam. Stack funding in order of cost to you: pursue grants like Workforce Pell and WIOA-funded training first, then scholarships and employer support, and use financing only for a remaining gap. Filing the FAFSA and talking to an American Job Center early lets you plan funding across A+, Network+, and beyond, so you are not scrambling to pay for each step separately.
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 CompTIA Network+ training be funded?
Often yes. Depending on eligibility and approvals, a Network+ program may be funded through Workforce Pell, WIOA, scholarships, or employer support, frequently combined to cover most of the cost.
Does Workforce Pell cover Network+ programs?
It can if the 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.
Do I need A+ before Network+?
Not strictly, but many people take A+ first because it builds foundational IT knowledge. Network+ then adds networking skills as part of a credential ladder toward better roles.
Can I combine funding sources for Network+?
Often yes. Grants, WIOA funding, scholarships, and employer support can frequently be stacked. Tell each office about the others and confirm any limits on how funds combine.
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).