CDA Scholarship Program

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is the CDA National Credentialing Program?

The CDA National Credentialing Program, administered by the Council for Professional Recognition, is a major effort initiated in 1971 to enhance the quality of childcare by establishing the standards that define, evaluate, and recognize the competence of child care providers and home visitors.  

The CDA program benefits caregivers and communities alike.  It offers caregivers the opportunity to look at their work in relation to national standards, to receive feedback and support from people in the field, to improve their skills and to earn a professional credential that is recognized nationwide.

For more information about the CDA program please visit www.cdacouncil.org.

Click here for Frequently Asked Questions.

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CDA Scholarship Program?

The District of Columbia Department of Human Services, Early Care and Education Administration is awarding partial Child Development Associate (CDA) scholarships to individuals who wish to:

• Obtain a CDA Credential in Center Based Preschool, Infant/Toddler, Family Childcare or Home Visitor Setting.

• Obtain a Second Setting CDA Credential.

• Renew a CDA Credential that has expired or will expire.

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What are the CDA Scholarship Eligibility Requirements?  

CDA scholarship applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Must  be a resident of the District of Columbia or currently work in a licensed child care center, licensed family care home, or a home visitor program in the District of Columbia;

• Must be 18 years of age or older;

• Hold a high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED);

• Have 480 hours of experience working with children from birth to five (5) years old within the past five years;

• Have 120 clock hours of formal early childhood education within the past five years;

• Must submit a 300 word essay that describes why s/he selected a career in early childhood education;

• Must complete the documentation or information collection requirements as specified by the Council;

• Must have purchased a CDA Application Packet and must submit the CDA Application within sixty days of scholarship award.

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How to apply

Click on the links below to download the CDA Scholarship application and CDA Scholarship brochure.

CDA Scholarship Information and Application (ENGLISH)

CDA Scholarship Information and Application (SPANISH)

CDA Scholarship Brochure (ENGLISH)

CDA Scholarship Brochure (SPANISH)