6 min. read

Can U.S. Veterans Get CISSP® Training for Free? Here’s How

For many U.S. veterans transitioning from military service to civilian careers, cybersecurity stands out as a high-demand, high-paying field. Among the most respected certifications in this domain is the CISSP® – Certified Information Systems Security Professional. The CISSP credential, issued by (ISC)², is recognized globally as a benchmark of excellence in information security. But here’s the good news: U.S. veterans may be able to access CISSP® training for free—thanks to their well-earned GI Bill® benefits and veteran-focused educational programs.

In this guide, we’ll explore how U.S. veterans can obtain CISSP® training for free, the key steps to qualify, and why pursuing this credential is a smart career move after military service.

Why Should Veterans Pursue CISSP® Certification?

Veterans possess a unique blend of discipline, attention to detail, and security-focused mindset, making them excellent candidates for cybersecurity roles. Many roles in the Department of Defense (DoD) and federal government require or prefer CISSP® certification. As cybersecurity threats continue to rise, certified professionals are more in demand than ever.

According to (ISC)², CISSP® holders earn an average salary of over $120,000 per year, and the credential opens doors to positions such as:

Information Security Analyst
Security Consultant
Security Architect
IT Director or Manager
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

For veterans already familiar with military security protocols, obtaining the CISSP® can serve as a natural progression into the civilian cybersecurity workforce.

Yes, U.S. Veterans Can Get CISSP® Training for Free

The Post-9/11 GI Bill® and other military education benefits can cover the cost of CISSP® training, exam fees, and related study materials. Below are key ways to access this benefit.

1. Use the GI Bill® to Pay for CISSP® Training

The GI Bill® covers a wide range of certification programs, including cybersecurity training. While it doesn’t directly pay for certifications themselves (like the CISSP® exam), it can cover non-degree programs that prepare veterans for certification. Here’s how it works:

Find a VA-approved training provider: Many CISSP® bootcamps and training courses are approved for VA funding. These providers offer comprehensive training that qualifies for GI Bill® reimbursement.
Enroll in a non-degree program: Training programs offered by accredited institutions or certified partners of (ISC)² may be eligible.
Submit a VA Form 22-1990 via VA.gov to apply for education benefits.

Once approved, the GI Bill® can cover tuition, housing allowances, and books related to the CISSP® training.

2. Take Advantage of the VET TEC Program

The Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses (VET TEC) is another powerful tool for veterans seeking free cybersecurity training. This program partners veterans with tech training providers at no cost. The best part? VET TEC does not use up GI Bill® entitlement.

Your entry could not be saved. Please try again.

We sent links to your email! You should have received an email from us already. If you did not receive, make sure you check your spam folders and add masterofproject.com to safe senders list to receive our emails.

Key Features:

Covers full cost of tuition
Provides a monthly housing stipend
Only pays the training provider upon successful employment outcome

Some VET TEC providers offer CISSP®-aligned programs that fulfill the experience and education requirements of the certification. If you’re a veteran looking for rapid entry into the cybersecurity workforce, VET TEC is a golden opportunity.

3. Get Reimbursement for the CISSP® Exam Fee

Even if your training wasn’t covered under the GI Bill®, you can still get reimbursed for the CISSP® exam fee under the Licensing and Certification benefit.

Here’s how:

Submit proof of your exam registration and payment
Use VA Form 22-0803 or apply through the VA’s Education Portal
Receive reimbursement up to the approved cost (as of 2025, the CISSP® exam fee is $749)

This means that even self-study veterans who meet the eligibility criteria and pass the CISSP® exam can get their investment refunded.

4. Look Into (ISC)²’s Free Training for Veterans

(ISC)² itself offers veteran initiatives, including the Cybersecurity Career Pathway program for U.S. veterans. While not always free, these are deeply discounted or grant-supported training opportunities, often in partnership with nonprofits, veteran service organizations, or community colleges.

Also, keep an eye out for special partnerships between (ISC)² and workforce retraining initiatives that specifically target veterans entering cybersecurity.

5. Explore State-Level and Nonprofit Veteran Tech Programs

Many states offer workforce development programs for veterans in high-demand fields like cybersecurity. Some examples include:

California’s Vet-to-Tech program
Texas Workforce Commission’s Veteran Education Program
CyberVetsUSA, a free training platform for veterans offered in several states

These programs often include CISSP® preparation and career placement support, completely free of charge.

6. Consider CISSP® Prerequisites and Experience Requirements

While training and exam costs may be covered, it’s essential to note that CISSP® requires at least five years of relevant work experience in two or more domains of the (ISC)² CISSP® Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). However, many veterans already meet these requirements through their military service roles—especially in fields like intelligence, cybersecurity operations, and IT systems.

If you’re short on experience, don’t worry. You can still become an Associate of (ISC)² by passing the exam. This designation gives you six years to earn the necessary experience and become a fully certified CISSP®.

Where to Find Free or Covered CISSP® Training Providers

To make use of these veteran education benefits, look for training providers that:

Are approved by the VA or listed on the WEAMS Institution Search Tool
Offer online or in-person CISSP® bootcamps
Provide documentation to support VA reimbursement claims

Master of Project Academy, for example, offers CISSP® training courses online that are suitable for self-paced learners, veterans transitioning to new careers, or those preparing for the exam independently. Although direct GI Bill® payments aren’t accepted, veterans may still be eligible for reimbursement if they submit proof of certification expenses.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Service Count in Cybersecurity

If you’re a U.S. veteran aiming to build a civilian career with purpose and excellent earning potential, CISSP® training is a smart move—and you may not need to pay out of pocket to pursue it.

From the GI Bill® to VET TEC and exam reimbursement, there are multiple pathways that allow veterans to access CISSP® training for free. With high demand in both government and private sectors, a cybersecurity career offers stability, upward mobility, and the opportunity to serve in a new capacity—protecting digital infrastructure from evolving threats.

Start by researching VA-approved training providers, applying for benefits, and leveraging your military experience to meet the CISSP® eligibility requirements. Your journey to becoming a cybersecurity expert begins with one decision—and your service has already prepared you for success.

U.S. Veterans and Active-Duty Service Members —

Your military benefits may cover 100% of top certification programs with no out-of-pocket cost.

Email [email protected] to learn how you can get certified in:

PMP®, CAPM®, PMI-ACP®
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
CSM®, CSPO®, Leading SAFe®
CISA, CISSP®, and more

Let Master of Project Academy help you turn your service into career-advancing credentials.

Can U.S. Veterans Get CISSPÂ® Training for Free? Here’s How