The Certified Travel Associate (CTA) focuses on those “nuts and bolts” skills that you use on a daily basis – selling, customer service, and communication. You will also gain knowledge of destinations and niche markets. The CTA is also the first step to earning the coveted CTC designation.

Although you need to have 18 months industry experience to earn the CTA, you can begin your studies at any time.

The CTA consists of twelve courses – eight core courses that are common to everyone who pursues the certification, and your choice of four elective courses to help personalize the CTA experience. Armed with this training, your already sharp skills will be refined to perfection.

Enrolling is easy … and can fit into ANY budget

We have the options that fit into your lifestyle and budget. For the professional on the go or the tech-savvy individual, you can have study materials as mobile as you by choosing the PDF format and you can study on your computer or electronic reader. If you are more comfortable with a book that you can highlight, mark, and quickly return to as a reference, that option is also available – just choose the version that you like best.

While certification has a cost, it need not be a burden. You can pay for your materials and testing in full, or enjoy the convenience of a 12-month interest-free payment plan. The choice is yours.

Pay In Full in our Bookstore

Choose the 12-Month Payment Plan

The CTA is an ideal way to demonstrate your dedication to your career, your professionalism to your co-workers and clients, and to raise your status in the industry. Don’t you deserve that recognition? Start to earn that well-deserved certification today.

Help along the way

Fall CTA Online Study Group Dates Announced!
The popular CTA Online Study Group returns Thursdays this fall for nine weeks starting September 5th at Noon Eastern Time. Join fellow CTA Candidates and your facilitator, Mark McMullen, CTC for a lively discussion and review of the eight core courses and a CTA Test Prep session. The cost for all nine sessions is $99 and you can sign up and reserve your place by clicking here.

Experienced? Why not Test-Out?

If you are a travel professional with at least two years of experience, you can demonstrate your knowledge by choosing our popular CTA Test-Only option. By relying on your experience in selling and servicing your customers, you can “test out” and take the same test as those enrolled in the full program and be eligible to earn same industry-recognized certification. Your experience counts for something … use it to earn your CTA.

The CTA program can be completed in 3 to 6 months; however, candidates have a full year (12 months) to complete their studies and test. Many students choose to study independent study, but they may also opt to attend a CTA Workshop for a final review and to test. For more information about available CTA Workshops contact Patty Noonan, CTC at: pnoonan@thetravelinstitute.com

Cancellations/Refunds: CTA candidates wishing to withdraw are entitled to a full refund less a $50 administrative fee, provided they return their original study materials in saleable condition along with a written request for withdrawal within 30 days of their enrollment. After 30 days, no refunds will be given.