How to Get Into Job Corps

Jobs Corps is a federally-funded job training and education program with 122 locations in 48 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. People between the ages of 16 through 24 can participate. Students may select from a variety of trades and career training as well as getting either a GED or a high school diploma upon completion. Students can not only reside at some sites, but they can also receive cash for a living allowance each month. Food is provided at most Job Corps sites. Another major benefit is the availability of dental insurance coverage by Job Corps. At the completion of a training or education program, you will receive a lump sum cash payment. If this sounds like an appealing prospect, read on to learn how to get into Job Corps.

Things You'll Need

• Birth certificate
• Government-issued photo identification
• Social Security card
• Health insurance card
• Immunization records
• High school transcripts or diploma
• Emergency contact list

Instructions

1. Call Job Corps at (800) 733-JOBS and ask where are the closest Job Corps programs in your state.

2. Call or visit your local Job Corps office. If you need housing at Job Corps, you will usually be placed on a waiting list for a dormitory room that usually has more than one student per dorm.

3. Set an appointment for an interview with a Job Corps representative. You will need a lot of documents, which have been previously noted. Additionally, you will select from more than 100 different occupational programs offered by Job Corps.

4. Complete your educational and/or job training program. If you are getting a certificate or diploma, you can participate in the formal graduation ceremonies.

5. Receive the lump sum financial reward from Job Corps for completing your education and/or training.

6. Receive post-Job Corps benefits such as apprenticeship in a labor union or assistance locating employment in your chosen field.

7. Return to Jobs Corps training or education in the future, if you so desire and still meet the admissions criteria. You will asked to complete participant surveys after you graduate at 13-week, six-month and 12-month intervals.

Tips & Warnings

• Participants in Job Corps can often participate in group outings, usually free for most outings, such as attending professional sports events. Ask your Job Corps admissions representative about upcoming freebies.

• Job Corps has a no-tolerance rule about the use of drugs and alcohol by students. One slip up is all it takes to get you kicked out of the program.

Resources

• Official Job Corps website