Young adults interested in Job Corps must apply to the program through a Job Corps Admission Counselor. During the Outreach and Admissions process, prospective trainees learn about the Paul Simon Chicago Job Corps Center and the opportunities available to them. They are informed about the responsibilities of being a Job Corps trainee and begin learning about the connection between their Job Corps experience and achievement of their long-term Career goals. To qualify for admission, a prospective student must meet basic eligibility requirements. Based upon an initial assessment of each student's career goals, aptitude, and the availability of vocational offerings, the student is referred to the center by the Admissions Counselors. To qualify for Job Corps, a prospective trainee must:

• Be a U.S. Citizen, U.S. national, permanent resident alien, or other alien authorized to accept permanent employment in the United States.
• Be at least 16 and not yet 25 years of age at the time of enrollment.
• Have signed consent from your parent or guardian if you are a minor.
• Be in need of further vocational training, education, or support service in order to participate successfully in the work world.
• Have a child care plan if you have a dependent child.
• Show commitment and capability to participate successfully in Job Corps and gain the benefits of the program.
• Have limited financial resources. For applicants who are 16 or 17, parent or legal guardian income must meet the limited financial resources criteria in accordance with the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

To request information online, click here or call toll-free (800) 733-JOBS.

Accessibility Statement

All photos provided by courtesy of Job Corps center operators under contract to the US Department of Labor.