To my understanding the type is desired but not required. I think you might get an interview sooner with it than without it barring something unusual in your resume. I think it helped me get an interview sooner.

If you have post 9-11 benefits, I think it's a "no brainer" unless you planned to use it for something else. There is a max you can use per year and I had to pay $2500 out of pocket. The full cost is $14,500 that you pay up front and VA reimbursed nearly $12,000 after. Most guys do their ATP and type at the same time. Make sure you get your certificate of eligibility from the VA first. Don't do training first and then try to do paperwork.

The course is "fire hose" course and you don't need any outside distractions. Long days with lots of studying and chair flying.

Good luck.