Job Corps

Job Corps is the largest nationwide residential career training program in the country and has been operating for more than 50 years. The program helps eligible young people ages 16 through 24 complete their high school education, trains them for meaningful careers, and assists them with obtaining employment. Job Corps has trained and educated over two million individuals since 1964.

Students can earn a high school diploma or the equivalent, and college credits. Job Corps also offers tuition-free housing, meals, basic health care, a living allowance, and career transition assistance. In addition to helping students complete their education, obtain career technical skills and gain employment, Job Corps also provides transitional support services, such as help finding employment, housing, child care, and transportation. Job Corps graduates either enter the workforce or an apprenticeship, go on to higher education, or join the military.

Programs Offered

Job Corps offers career technical skills training in 10 high-growth industries. Students attend a Job Corps campus closet to their home that offers the career training program they want to pursue.

  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Automotive & Machine Repair
  • Construction
  • Finance & Business
  • Healthcare
  • Homeland Security
  • Hospitality
  • Information Technology
  • Renewable Resources & Energy
  • Transportation

24 of the Job Corps campuses are operated by the USFS and allow students to earn optional additional certifications in wildland fire suppression, earn money, and obtain a Public Land Corps (PLC) noncompetitive hiring authority that can help PLC members find a job with the USDA Forest Service, assisting with the rehabilitation and restoration of over 170 national forests and grasslands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for Job Corps?

You may be eligible for Job Corps if you:

  • Are committed to improving your education and your future

  • Need job skills training, education, counseling, or related assistance to help get you started on a career pathway

  • Are between the ages of 16 and 24 are a U.S. citizen, a legal U.S. resident, or are a resident of a U.S. territory and/or are authorized to work in the United States

  • Meet other eligibility requirements

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

How do I enroll in Job Corps?

You can begin by filling out the Enrollment Interest Form or by calling us at 1-800-733-JOBS today! We'll walk you through the next steps.

Does it Cost Anything?

Job Corps is fully funded by the federal government and is FREE to students and their families.