You've got questions.
We've got answers.
From understanding the rules on center to navigating life after Job Corps, we’re here to help. These are a few of the most common questions we receive from students.
Job Corps provides free career training and education for 16- through 24-year-olds. We have over 120 campuses across the U.S. where students gain the experience needed to begin a career or apprenticeship, advance to higher education, or join the military. The best part? It’s free.
Low-income 16- through 24-year-olds who are U.S. citizens, legal U.S. residents, or residents of a U.S. territory, and/or individuals who are authorized to work in the United States.
You may NOT be eligible for Job Corps if you:
- Use drugs illegally under federal law
- Exhibit behavioral problems that could prevent you or others from success in Job Corps
- Have certain criminal convictions or require court supervision
Get the inside scoop on Job Corps Eligibility or or speak to an Admissions Services staff member.
The first step in enrolling at Job Corps begins by filling out the MyJobCorps Express Interest Tool or speaking to an Admissions Services staff member by calling (800) 733-JOBS or (800) 733-5627 today! Learn more about the enrollment process.
Job Corps is fully funded by the federal government, which means it’s always FREE for students.
The length of training is dependent on the type of training, the student’s learning pace and whether the student pursues additional Advanced Training opportunities. Job Corps students can be in training anywhere between eight months and three years.
Job Corps has more than 120 campuses across the United States and Puerto Rico. Chances are, there’s one near you. Find the closest campus to you.
Job Corps students typically go to a campus near where they live. Your Admissions Services staff member will work with you to determine which center is the best fit for you based on a few factors, including your location and career interest.
Throughout your training, you will receive a biweekly basic living allowance. As your training progresses, your living allowance will increase. After you graduate, Job Corps can help you get started on your journey with a transition allowance. This allowance is based on your academic and career technical training achievement while in Job Corps.
From health care to IT, to construction, Job Corps offers hands-on, in-person career technical training in 10 high-growth industries. Explore the possibilities available to you.
Job Corps does offer virtual enrollment for online learning, which means you can complete your first 60 days, called the “Career Preparation Period” or CPP, online. We even provide the technology. CPP includes Job Corps orientation and initial career preparation assessments and instruction. After completing CPP, you’ll join us on campus to complete the rest of your education and hands-on job training.
In addition to career training, Job Corps can also help you earn your high school diploma or the equivalent and a driver's license. Job Corps will also provide in-depth career planning, on-the-job training, job placement assistance, housing, food, health and dental care, a biweekly basic living allowance, and basic uniforms and equipment for your career training. All for FREE. Learn more about Job Corps’ benefits.
Yes. We have academic tutors prepared to provide you with the extra help you need in reading or math. Just ask!
Yes. Your instructors will assign independent study assignments as necessary to enhance your learning.
No. Job Corps does not assign grades. Instead, it allows students to demonstrate their skill (competency) in a given subject area or training area. Instructors will mark the completion of training on your Training and Achievement Record (TAR).
Yes. We require that someone (preferably a parent, guardian, foster parent, mentor or associate who is interested in your success) meet with an Admissions Services staff member prior to enrollment. This same person must visit and meet with your career counselors monthly for the first four months of your enrollment.
If you choose to attend a residential Job Corps center, you will be expected to live on campus. But there are some nonresidential centers and options. Check out the living options available to you.
While a few Job Corps campuses offer single-parent dorms and on-site child care services, these options aren't available at every center. An Admissions Services staff member will be able to talk with you about your options.
Most centers offer separate male and female dorms. Depending on the center, you can have anywhere from one to eight roommates. Job Corps values diversity and will provide you with opportunities to live and interact with people of many different backgrounds.
Absolutely! Your Job Corps center will provide your transportation to and from home for your initial trip to the center, during the winter and summer breaks, and your return trip home when you leave the program. Any other trips off campus must be arranged and paid for by the student.
Yes, there is 24/7 security available at all Job Corps campuses.
If you’re not happy at Job Corps, no one will force you to stay at the center. We encourage you to speak to your center staff first so that they can help you navigate next steps.
Each Job Corps center has its own set of rules designed foremost to ensure your safety and to help eliminate distractions so you can succeed in academics and training. All centers have a Zero Tolerance Policy for drugs and alcohol.
Students are expected to bring their everyday clothes, personal care and grooming items. Students should not bring expensive video and audio equipment, computers, and similar items. Learn more about what to bring to center.
At most centers, you are responsible for providing your own everyday clothes. Many centers require students to wear uniforms during the training day. If that applies to you, your uniform will be provided by your center.
Your parents or guardians are invited to visit you at the center. Please have them contact your center in advance of their visit.
Even before graduation, Job Corps staff will assist you in conducting a job search. They can also help direct you to the health care, housing, legal assistance and child care you'll need after you graduate. For six months after graduation, a Job Corps career transition specialist will keep in touch with you to make sure things are going well in your new career.
Most Job Corps centers have agreements with community colleges or related institutions to teach career area courses or to have individual students take courses to gain college credit. Job Corps can work with students to help them transfer into college programs when applicable.
All Job Corps centers will support students who want to get connected to military recruiters. Some campuses even offer military preparation programs. An Admissions Services staff member will be able to help talk through your options.