Are you interested in finishing your high school education, career training, learning new skills, or finding a job? Benefits.gov is here to help you meet your goals. Benefits.gov offers information on Education and Training resources, including the Job Corps program. Job Corps is managed by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration.
What is Job Corps?
Job Corps is the nation's largest free career training program for low-income at-risk youth, ages 16 to 24. Job Corps enrolls about 50,000 people each year at 123 centers in 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
When enrolled in Job Corps, you learn skills needed to start a career, enlist in the military, or pursue higher education. Students can earn a high school diploma through partnerships with local school districts or a high school equivalent credential. Job Corps also provides room and board, counseling and mentoring services, and basic medical care while students are in the program. Career counseling and support is available for up to 12 months after graduation.
Job Corps offers training in more than 100 career areas. All programs start students on a path toward industry-recognized credentials. Students can earn a high school diploma or the equivalent, and college credits.
Where are the Job Corps centers located?
Job Corps centers are located across the U.S. If there isn’t a center near you or a center that offers a program you are interested in, Job Corps allows you to be a part of programs in other states.
Am I eligible for Job Corps?
You may be eligible for Job Corps if you:
- Are committed to improving your education and your future
- Need job training, education, counseling, or related assistance
- Are between the ages of 16 and 24, a U.S. citizen, a legal U.S. resident, or a resident of a U.S. territory and/or are authorized to work in the U.S.
- Meet other eligibility requirements
You may NOT be eligible for Job Corps if you:
- Use drugs illegally under federal law
- Exhibit behavioral problems
- Have certain criminal convictions or require court supervision
Take the Job Corps Student Eligibility Quiz to see if you are eligible.
How do I enroll and check the status of my Job Corps application?
To enroll in Job Corps, fill out the Enrollment Interest Form or call 1-800-733-JOBS. Admission counselors can help you identify your goals and help you choose your career path. To check the status of your application, complete the application status form and click ‘Submit’.
Looking for more resources? As the official benefits website of the U.S. government, Benefits.gov can connect you to available assistance you may be eligible for. Use our Browse by Category page or take the Benefit Finder questionnaire to find benefits you may be eligible to receive.
