Equitable IT Pathways Initiative
Free IT Training. Industry Credentials. Career Opportunity.
The Equitable IT Pathways Initiative (EITPI) is a grant‑funded workforce training program that provides tuition‑free Information Technology (IT) education, industry certifications and comprehensive support services for eligible participants.
EITPI is designed to remove financial and structural barriers to careers in IT — serving individuals who are new to tech, changing careers, unemployed or underemployed or are currently enrolled as CT State students.
CT State Community College's Equitable IT Pathways Initiative is $6.7M. $5.0M (75%) is funded through a Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration grant and another $1.7M (25%) is committed through non-federal state and local resources.
What Are the Benefits?
As an EITPI participant, you'll get more than free classes — you'll receive a complete support package designed to help you succeed.
EITPI Grant Benefits Include:
- Full tuition scholarships for approved IT programs
- Industry‑recognized certification training (CompTIA, AWS, AI and more)
- National certification exam fees covered
- Student success stipends for successfully completed courses or certificates*
- Free laptop, case and mouse
- Course materials and online courseware
- Dedicated tutoring and CompTIA exam preparation
- Remote learning options for most programs
*Some stipends and support funds may be considered taxable income. Participants are encouraged to consult a tax professional.
What Programs Are Offered?
EITPI supports structured IT pathways that lead to skills employers need right now.
Approved Programs Under the Grant
- IT Bootcamp
- Artificial Intelligence Certificate (No technical background required. Applicable across all fields)
- IT Support Certificate
- Cybersecurity/Information Security Certificate
Most courses are offered remotely, with some programs requiring limited in‑person participation.
Note that you must successfully complete one program before enrolling in another.
View Programs and Course Descriptions
Free Tutoring and Exam Support
All EITPI participants have access to free drop‑in tutoring and certification exam preparation, including support for:
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- AWS Cloud Foundations
- Ethical Hacking
- Microsoft Office
Tutoring is provided weekly, with individual appointments available, to support academic success and certification readiness.
Why Participate?
You do not need to be a current college student to participate in EITPI.
This Program Is Ideal For:
- Career changers
- New entrants to the workforce
- Unemployed or long‑term unemployed individuals
- Dislocated workers
- Underemployed or low‑wage workers
- Incumbent workers seeking advancement
Why EITPI Works
EITPI was designed specifically to help individuals enter, re‑enter or advance in the IT workforce.
- No degree required to start
- Short‑term training aligned with workforce demand
- Preparation for credentials recognized by employers nationwide
- Flexible schedules and online options
- Strong academic, technical and career support
Why Participate if You Are a Current CT State Student?
Current CT State students — whether credit or noncredit — can benefit significantly from EITPI.
For Credit‑Seeking Students
If you are enrolled in a credit degree or certificate program, EITPI allows you to:
- Earn industry certifications alongside your degree
- Strengthen your résumé before graduation
- Gain hands‑on, workforce‑aligned skills
- Access free tutoring and additional academic support
Credit vs. Noncredit: What’s the Difference?
Participating in EITPI does not replace your credit program — it enhances it with credentials employers value immediately.
- Credit programs apply toward a degree and follow academic semester structures
- Non-credit EITPI programs are workforce‑focused, shorter‑term, and designed for rapid skill development and certification
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the U.S.
- Have household income at or below 300% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
- Complete the IT entrance exam
- Meet Selective Service requirements (if applicable)
Not an IT Major?
The Artificial Intelligence Certificate is open to students in all majors and focuses on practical, ethical and professional AI use — no technical background required.
How to Apply
Applying to EITPI is a guided process.
Application Steps
- Complete the IT Pathways Initiative Scholarship form
- Take the IT entrance exam (used for placement — not exclusion)
- Submit required documentation:
- Photo ID
- Proof of U.S. work authorization
- Signed Social Security card
- Selective Service registration (if applicable)
Contact Us
Email: CA-ITPathways@ctstate.edu
View Programs and Course Descriptions
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. Many programs are designed for beginners. The entrance exam is used only for placement.
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Stipends may be provided upon successful completion of a course or program, depending on funding availability.
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Participants must successfully complete one program before enrolling in another.
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Most courses are fully remote. The IT Bootcamp requires in‑person attendance.
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CT State reserves the right to cancel or change courses due to enrollment or scheduling needs. Participants are notified in advance.
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Some stipends or supports may be taxable. Participants should consult a tax professional.
Learn More
- Overview of Technology Based-Certificate Programs
- AI Certificate
- IT Support Certificate
- Information Security/Cybersecurity Certificate
- Web Developer Certificate
CT State Community College's Equitable IT Pathways Initiative is $6.7M. $5.0M (75%) is funded through a Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration grant and another $1.7M (25%) is committed through non-federal state and local resources.
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