.png?width=666&height=414&name=Child%20Care%20Aware%20Logo%20(1).png "Child Care Aware of Missouri Logo")
We’re excited to announce important updates from the Council for Professional Recognition that directly impact participants in the CDA Scholarship Program. These changes, effective August 1, 2025, will create new opportunities and streamline the credentialing process for early childhood professionals.
New Birth to Five CDA® Credential Setting
What’s New: The Birth to Five CDA® Credential recognizes your ability to work with multiple age groups in center-based settings, increasing your flexibility and career mobility.
Scholarship Impact: Scholarship support for this setting will begin once the new workbooks are available, expected in late fall 2025.
Updated CDA Exam Sequence
What’s New: Candidates must now complete the CDA Exam before scheduling the Verification Visit, creating a more efficient and focused assessment process.
Scholarship Impact: As of August 1, 2025, all CDA candidates must take their exam prior to the Verification Visit. Be sure to plan exam dates carefully and stay in contact with your Professional Development Specialist and scholarship counselor for guidance.
Streamlined Renewal Requirements
What’s New: First Aid and CPR certification are no longer required at the time of CDA renewal (although they remain required by states and licensing authorities).
Scholarship Impact: Renewal applicants do not need to submit First Aid and CPR verification for the CDA.
Introducing the CDA Digital Credential
What’s New: CDA recipients can now earn a verifiable digital credential, perfect for showcasing on LinkedIn, resumes, and other professional platforms.
Scholarship Impact: Digital credentials are officially recognized and will follow the same process as traditional credentials. Scholarship counselors will keep you updated on any added requirements.
Application Pricing Updates
What’s New: For the first time since 2013, CDA credentialing fees are increasing to support improved quality and service standards. Stipends for Professional Development Specialists will also increase from $100 to $200.
Scholarship Impact:
- Initial CDA application fee: $525 (formerly $425)
- Renewal CDA application fees: $250 (formerly $125)
CDA® Paper Application Process Ending
What’s New: Beginning January 1, 2026, paper applications for both initial and renewal CDA will no longer be accepted. All applications will transition to the YourCouncil online platform for a smoother and more accessible process.
Scholarship Impact: Scholarship counselors will provide reminders and support to help you navigate the new online application system.
-
Paper applications for both initial and renewal CDA will no longer be accepted after December 31, 2025. All applications will move to the YourCouncil platform for a smoother and more accessible process.
-
Scholarship Impact: Scholarship counselors will provide reminders and assist you with navigating online applications.
Next Steps:
Click the green Learn More button for details on these changes from the CDA Council
Click the blue Learn More button to apply for a CDA Scholarship today.
Explore our other Child Care Aware® of Missouri resources:
FREE Clock Hour Training
Scholarships for Educators
Child Care Health and Wellness
Family Child Care Network
Leadership Development Opportunities
Missouri Office of Childhood Updates
Show Me Child Care Resources
Support Child Care Aware® of Missouri
Community Data
Join Our Team
Resources to Build Your Business