Onward to Opportunity is a program from the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University. It offers prep courses for certification exams, an advisor, and career coaching, online or at select installations. Course enrollment, materials and advising are free. Exam fees are covered only for some participants.
Who qualifies
Per IVMF's FAQ and program page
- Active duty members who will separate within the next 6 months with an honorable discharge. IVMF notes branch policies may narrow that window.
- Veterans with at least 180 days of service and an honorable discharge.
- Guard and Reserve members in part-time status. Those on active duty orders follow the active duty rules.
- Spouses of active duty members, eligible veterans and current Guard and Reserve members.
- Each person can take part once.
The timing that matters
- Expect about 6 to 8 hours a week for about 90 days of self-paced online coursework. The first course must be finished within 90 days of your cohort start. [IVMF FAQ]
- O2O covers one certification exam for participants who enroll during their transition from active duty, and for unemployed veterans and spouses. Others can enroll free but pay their own exam fee. [IVMF program page and FAQ]
- You need a non-military email address and a LinkedIn profile for the application. [IVMF FAQ]
- IVMF lists 11 regions with in-person locations at select installations and online cohorts for everyone else. Check its page for yours. [IVMF program page]
Questions worth asking before you sign up
- Which certification do employers in my target field and city ask for in their postings?
- Given my status on the day I enroll, is my exam fee covered?
- Can I give about 6 to 8 hours a week for about 90 days, and when is my next cohort start?
Official sources
Where Loona One fits
Your Career Record keeps your course dates next to your separation date in Loona One. Loona works alongside programs like this one.
Last checked Oct 30, 2026. Rules change. Confirm on the official page before you act.
Keep your transition organized in one place.
Loona One works alongside TAP, your transition office and veteran nonprofits so you can plan between appointments and on your own time.
Loona One is an independent product from Loona LLC, a Florida business. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by the DoD, the VA or any military branch. This page is general information. The program decides who qualifies.