Tuition Assistance transactions shift to 100% WebTA 4/6/2010
by Susan Lawson
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- All Navy Tuition Assistance (TA) transactions will soon shift to an entirely online process accessible through the Navy College Program Web site's WebTA portal.
Sailors applying for tuition assistance will be required to use WebTA to process all applications beginning April 15.
"WebTA allows Sailors to complete all steps in the tuition assistance and education planning process online," said Mary Redd-Clary, the Navy's Voluntary Education (VOLED) program director.
"In the past, Sailors could start the TA application process, but were then required to circulate a printed copy for review and approval through the chain of command. Now, Sailors and Marines can complete the entire process virtually, and the final step is the paper-based submission, in person or via fax, to one of the Navy's 52 Navy College Offices (NCO) for delivery to the school," said Redd-Clary.
The WebTA application must be approved by the commanding officer or authorized command delegate.
"We recommend developing an internal command review process, as that process will ensure all management controls for Sailors TA requirements are met. These requirements, such as completion of warfare qualifications, should all be reviewed prior to the commanding officer's final approval," said Redd-Clary.
In addition to TA application processing through WebTA, the NCP site includes tools required for Sailors to develop an interactive education plan with direct support from NCO counselors. The site also provides Sailors and counselors access to Sailor/Marine Ace Registry Transcript (SMART) records.
Sailors can also search degree plans based on their ratings. These degree plans are offered through partner schools from the Navy College Program Distance Learning Partnership (NCPDLP).
"WebTA also offers commands an opportunity to provide more timely and interactive support of their Sailors as they work to identify their professional and academic pursuits," said Redd-Clary.
For more information about the Navy College Program, visit https://www.navycollege.navy.mil/.
