We have put together a collection of our most frequently asked questions. Our support team is available by email us at support@compasstravelacademy.com
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What is Compass Travel Academy?
The Compass Travel Academy is an online travel school that will expand your knowledge of the world around you and prepare you for the TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) Exam and also for a career in the travel industry. It allows you to study at your convenience and complete the coursework at your own pace.
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Do I need any knowledge and travel industry experience prior to signing up for the Compass Travel Academy?
No previous knowledge of the travel industry is required prior to enrolling. This program is designed in a way that starts off with basic knowledge that will be the foundation for your studies and progresses through the information that you need to begin working as a travel agent. Students who complete the program and pass the TAP test are truly prepared to begin their careers as travel agents.
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How is Compass Travel Academy’s program different from other programs?
Compass Travel Academy is the best choice for individuals who wish to increase their understanding of the travel industry. Unlike many other travel schools, Compass Travel Academy utilizes practical application of travel agent concepts, in additional to traditional textbook learning procedures. The personal support from experienced people who work in the travel industry is another reason why you should choose Compass Travel Academy. Compass Travel Academy’s unique program was built to truly prepare our students for success on the TAP Test and for work in all segments of the travel industry.
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What is the TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) Test?
The TAP Test is a basic competency test that measures the entry-level knowledge of travel professionals within all aspects of the travel industry and can position you for professional growth. You must pass this exam with a 75% or better score. Upon passing, you will receive a Certificate from The Travel Institute and Compass Travel Academy.
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What are the benefits of the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) Certification?
The advantages of obtaining a TAP Certificate include:
- Increased credibility with prospective employers or clients
- You will reduce the work experience required for the CTA (Certified Travel Agent) designation by six (6) months
- Shorten the waiting period for your International Airlines Travel Agent Network (IATAN) Travel Agent ID Card (after meeting IATAN’s requirements)
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What is the general employment outlook of the travel industry?
According to the Travel Industry Association, in the U.S. alone, travel and tourism is a $7 trillion industry and one of the country's largest employers with 7.5 million direct travel-generated jobs.
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook projected little or no change over the next several years. However, do not be discouraged because job opportunities will arise as travel agents retire or change careers. To fill those openings, the Department of Labor states that applicants with formal training will more likely gain employment over those with little or no formal instruction. Furthermore, in a recent survey of ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents) members, the number of home-based agents increased by 312% since 2003. So, there are some segments of the travel industry that are experiencing tremendous growth. And overall, the travel industry has shown resiliency despite the economic, technological and political trends that have forced it to adapt quickly in recent years.
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After I enroll, how soon can I start the program?
Because the program has rolling enrollment, you are able to sign up at any time and you may start your coursework as soon as you receive the textbooks in the mail.
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What is the cost of the Compass Academy Program?
The cost of Compass Travel Academy’s online training program is only $495.00. This fee covers course training, access to our online portal website, and all textbooks and workbooks needed for the program including shipping.
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What are the accepted forms of payment?
Compass Travel Academy only accepts credit and debit cards for tuition payment. Currently the cards accepted are below:
 
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Are there any payment plans available?
Two payment plans are offered. Students may pay the program cost up front and save $100. The total amount due when paying in full is $495.00.
Our Payment Plan Option offers the ability to split the tuition into three payments. The initial payment is $295. Two subsequent payments of $150 are due 30 and 60 days from the day you submit your online application.
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How long does the program take?
The coursework is divided into weekly assignments that can be completed over the course of a year. We highly recommend that you follow the proposed syllabus. You will have 1 year (52 weeks) from your registration date to complete both the coursework and take the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) Test.
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What support is available to me as a Compass Academy Travel Student?
There are several ways to communicate with your instructor and other experienced individuals for support-related questions including:
- Telephone Support: 1-800-972-1531 X114 from 9am-5pm EST
- Online Chat support on the Compass Travel Academy Portal
- Discussion Boards on the Compass Travel Academy Portal
- Send us an e-mail using the “E-mail the Professor” link on the Compass Travel Academy Portal
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