Credential Attainment (CA) Rate 34 CFR §361.155(a)(1)(iv)
The percentage of participants enrolled in an education or training program (excluding on-the-job training and customized training) who attain a recognized postsecondary credential or secondary school diploma or equivalent during participation in, or within one year of, exit from the program.
A participant who has attained a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent is included in the percentage of participants who have attained a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent only if the participant also is employed or is enrolled in an education or training program leading to a recognized postsecondary credential within one year after exit from the program.
THINGS TO KNOW
- Credential attainment supports the intent of WIOA and the VR regulations to provide individuals with disabilities opportunities to participate in job-driven training and to pursue high quality employment outcomes.
- Credential attainment can close the opportunity gap by embracing a more holistic and nuanced approach for connecting diverse talent (e.g., individuals with disabilities) to economic opportunity.
- Aligning policies and procedures among core programs in a State will strengthen the intent and accuracy of credential reporting. Remember, States with a General VR agency and a Blind VR agency represent title IV together.
- VR agencies must develop strategies and procedures to assist VR Counselors in determining if and when a training or education program leads to a credential as defined by WIOA.
- Credentials are documented when they are achieved by the participant, not the date the VR Counselor received the supporting documentation.
- The Credential Attainment Rate includes participants who exited the VR program during the previous calendar year.
- On-the-job training (OJT) and customized training are not included in the Credential Attainment Rate because these type of training programs do not typically lead to a credential.
RESOURCES
- Credential Attainment Guide
- Credential Attainment Scenarios – Coming soon
- Performance Accountability Guidance (TAC 17-01)
- Credential Attainment Resource Page – Workforce GPS is a resource for title I and III programs, but some information may be useful to VR programs.
- VRTAC-QM Annual Reports & Performance Calculations
- VRTAC-QM Program & Performance FAQs