The Marine Corps put out a reminder that the Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) program is available to reservists. COOL maps your MOS to related civilian certifications and walks you through how to apply and what funding is available. This isn't a new program, but it's one a lot of reservists don't know they can use.
Bottom line: If you want a civilian credential tied to your MOS, COOL can help pay for it, but funding runs out, so don't wait.
Who it affects
All SMCR Marines and those on Active Duty Operational Support (ADOS) orders. Active component Marines are also covered. If you're in the IRR with no active orders, check with your nearest installation education office to confirm eligibility.
One exception worth noting: Cyberspace Workforce funding through COOL is restricted to officers and government civilians in cyber-coded billets only. That restriction won't be waived.
What you need to do
- Go to the COOL website at
https://www.cool.osd.mil/usmc/index.htmland look up your MOS. - Review the credentials listed and check the eligibility requirements for funding.
- Submit your application. Funding is first-come, first-served, so earlier is better.
- For questions, contact your installation Voluntary Education Office first. You can also reach the COOL team directly through the contact form at
https://www.cool.osd.mil/usmc/contact/index.htmlor by emailingHQMC_CREDENTIALING@USMC.MICROSOFT.COM.
Note: COOL funding is completely separate from Tuition Assistance. Using one does not affect the other.
Key dates
No deadline listed. Funding is first-come, first-served within the fiscal year, so there's no formal window, but waiting means less money available.
The official version
This article is based on MARADMIN 111/26. The program operates under DoDI 1322.33, DoD Credentialing Programs (October 2021).
This is written by a reservist, for reservists. It is not an official publication of HQMC or MARFORRES. Always verify guidance with your command or unit S-1 before acting on any article or summary.