Contact Us

Merit America is a career development nonprofit providing a path to in-demand, skill-based careers. We combine flexible, part-time training for in-demand careers with best-in-class career coaching and peer support to build a new pathway to the middle class for hundreds of thousands of Americans stuck in low-wage work.

We teach the skills employers need through “blended” learning programs, which combine the best of online learning with live support. All of our technical training and certificates are offered by third-party training providers like Google. Our program includes weekly small group meetings and 1:1s with a dedicated career coach, in addition to community-wide events.

The Merit America admissions process is simple.

1. First, you must apply to a Merit America Career Track. Currently, we offer programs in: IT Support, UX Design, Data Analytics, Project Management, Cybersecurity, and Human Resources.
   
2. Once you submit your application, if you meet our eligibility requirements, you will be directed to complete the initial assessment. This assessment consists of 16 questions designed to gauge your problem-solving skills and reading abilities, helping us gain better insights into your potential. You do not need prior tech experience to complete the assessment.
   
3. Upon completing the initial assessment, you’ll be invited to complete the Merit America Overview—a comprehensive look at the program’s expectations and requirements. You’ll gain insight into core components such as the curriculum, learning structure, available support systems, and important details about cost and payment options. This step takes approximately 30 minutes.
   
4. Once you have completed the Merit America Overview, the final step is to select a spot in an upcoming cohort and get ready to start the program!

To be eligible for any of Merit America’s programs, the following must be true:

• You have a high school diploma or GED.
• Associates and bachelor’s degree holders are welcome.
• You do not have a graduate degree and are not currently enrolled in a graduate program
• You are a fluent English speaker, reader, and writer.
• You are a resident of the U.S. and authorized to work in the U.S.
  • DACA and Temporary Residents must have a status/visa that does not expire within six months of the Immersion start date.
  • Residents of U.S. territories are eligible for our program.
• You are 18 years of age or older.
• You will be seeking full-time employment upon completion of the program.

Changes in your eligibility may result in removal from the program.

There are no upfront costs for any of our programs — ever, unless you choose to pay in full upfront.

For $5,700, you can enroll in our IT Support, Data Analytics, UX Design, Project Management, Human Resources, or Cybersecurity programs. Whether you choose to pay upfront, take advantage of Ascent’s Zero Percent Loan, or secure employer sponsorship, the price remains the same.

Flexible options to cover your program costs:

1. $0 Down with a Zero Percent Loan from Ascent:
   Ascent Funding offers a Zero Percent Loan that you can use to pay for Merit America. You can learn more about the $0 Down With a Zero Percent Loan from Ascent at Ascent Funding.
2. Sponsorship:
   Some employers or organizations may partially or fully cover the program costs for eligible learners. Any remaining amount can be covered with self-pay or a Zero Percent Loan. Reach out to your employer to see if they can sponsor your program costs.
3. Pay in Full Up Front:
   If you prefer to pay the entire program cost upfront, please send an email to success-sharing@meritamerica.org requesting to pay in full.
4. Opportunity For All:
   If you apply for an Ascent Zero Percent Loan and do not qualify, are not sponsored by your employer, and cannot pay in full upfront, you can apply for the Opportunity For All, which will cover 100% of the cost for Merit America. To learn more, reach out to our Admissions team for additional information.

At Merit America, we know that starting a new career is a big step, and we’re here to make it as smooth as possible. The Merit America Guarantee and the ability to defer the loan payments until you’re earning at least $40,000 a year make Merit America risk-free. We also know taking out a loan is a big step. Rest assured that you have 5 weeks to cancel with no penalty.

By the end of the program, you’ll have applied to at least 10 career-track-related jobs weekly and will have earned your Google Certificate to show employers your technical know-how. But a career is more than just technical skills, so Merit America is too. Here’s what’s included:

Personalized, hands-on career coaching:

• 1-on-1 Meetings: Regular sessions with a dedicated professional career coach to help you through your career journey.
• Career Planning: Personalized guidance from experienced career coaches to help you navigate your career path successfully.
• Hands-On Support: From resume reviews to interview practice, our comprehensive support system ensures you are fully prepared for the

Comprehensive networking and job search support:

• Professional Networking: Build and expand your professional network effectively.
• Strategic Job Searching: Learn how to search for jobs strategically and interact with recruiters.
• LinkedIn Optimization: Enhance your LinkedIn profile to attract career-track related opportunities.
• Networking Plan: We’ll help you create a detailed plan to leverage LinkedIn for informational interviews and networking.
• Job Board Profiles: Set up and optimize profiles on various job boards to increase your visibility.
• Employer Network: Discover how Merit America’s employer connections can help you land a job.

Expert application and interview preparation:

• Resume Optimization: We’ll help you create a powerful resume, and get it optimized by a professional coach.
• Cover Letter Review: Receive personalized feedback on your cover letters.
• Interview Practice: Learn how to nail your interviews, and participate in interview practice sessions.
• Salary Research & Value Statements: Learn how to research salaries and articulate your value.
• Reference List Creation: Compile and submit a professional reference list.

Essential professional development skills:

• Effective Workplace Communication: Master the art of professional communication in various settings.
• Industry Overview: Understand the landscape and opportunities in your chosen sector.
• Career Pathing & Transferable Skills: Identify and leverage skills that can propel your career forward.

While we cannot guarantee job placement or specific salary outcomes, we are committed to equipping you with a comprehensive training curriculum, professional career development resources, and dedicated job placement support. Once you begin your program, you’ll have 5 weeks to cancel with no penalty. Plus, our Merit America Guarantee ensures that if you don’t earn at least $40,000 within two years of completing the Immersion phase, you won’t be required to pay—making the program risk-free.