Frequently Asked Questions

How do I sign up for Job Corps?

There are 2 ways you can sign up: 

1) You can sign up online at jobcorps.gov! Just click the enroll button at the top of the page, and you can fill out your information so that an Admissions Representative can reach out to you. 

2) You can attend any of the in-person orientations at our campus or an orientation at your local America Job Center! More information regarding these orientations can be found in the 'Events & Blog' section of this site. 

Who is my admissions representative?

Our team has 6 amazing Representatives who are in charge of certain counties. Your Representative will likely be the person that covers the county you live in. You can find out who your Representative is on the 'Meet the Team' section of this site.

How long does an application take?

That depends on you! Right now, the process can take anywhere between 1.5 to 2 months to complete if you submit your application and all your needed documents to your counselor right away. If you have extra forms that you need to submit for your application, the process can take longer. Make sure you keep in contact with your Admissions Representative so that you're aware of all documents needed for your application.

What happens after my application is submitted?

When your application is submitted, it goes to the center for approval. This process can take up to 30 days to be completed. After the center approves your file, your Admissions Representative will reach out to set a start date with you. Make sure you're keeping in contact with your Admissions Representative as you wait for news on your application!

What documents do I need for my application?

The following are documents needed for every application:

• State ID / Drivers License / Birth Certificate

• Social Security Card (make sure you sign it!)

• Income documents (EBT/SNAP/Food stamps Benefit Letter, Free & Reduced Lunch Benefit Letter, Pay Stubs, OR other documentation)

• High School Diploma OR Official Transcripts

• Immunization Records (including COVID-19 vaccination records if applicable)

You may need more documents depending on your interview with your Admissions Representative. Make sure you do your best to gather as many documents as possible for your first appointment so that you can get your application completed quicker!

How old do I need to be to join?

Applicants must be between 16 and 24 years old to qualify. If you are older than 24 and have a disability, you may still qualify for the program. Ask our team to learn more!

Can I get my High School Diploma with Job Corps?

Yes! We work with SIATech, a charter school, to get our students their High School Diploma through our program. Of course, you'll able expected to get certified in one of our trades to gain the High School Diploma. Students need 200 credits plus a trade certification to graduate with a High School Diploma from us. We also have an option to get your High School Equivalency instead.

Can I tour the campus?

Yes! Every Thursday at 10am, we have a tour and orientation on the San Jose Job Corps campus. Please reach out to the Lead Admissions Representative--Zhane' Mejino (408-937-3167)--to let us know you'll be there! If you're a school counselor or are looking to bring a large group, please make sure you call or email (Mejino.Zhane@jobcorps.org) the Lead Admissions Counselor and we can set up a day just for your group to tour.

What's the difference between Advanced Trades and Basic Trades?

Students are expected to complete the basic trades first before moving on to an advanced trade offered through Job Corps. Basic trades cover training in some areas that may require additional education for further licensure. For example, Electrical Maintenance is a basic training and only covers training up to getting a student their Trainee "state card", which allows them to attend internships and go for higher certifications. If a student wants to pursue more licensure, they can go into an Advanced Electrical Training, which is offered through Job Corps Centers in Florida, New York, Texas, and Utah. Still confused? Talk with an admissions representative for specific details.

What should I pack when I move onto campus?

Bring up to 2 weeks worth of casual clothing, pajamas, a nice business outfit, your hygiene products, a shower caddy, a towel or two, and decorations for your room! You can also bring some non-perishable snacks. If you'd like, you can also bring your own laptop/tablet, your favorite video game consuls (you'll have a lockable wardrobe to use), and other items to make you feel more comfortable or at home. If you have any specific questions, you can speak with your Admissions Representative. A prohibited items list is below this FAQ!

Can I bring a car?

If you live off campus and you commute to campus every day to take classes, yes! If you live on campus, no. We do not have enough parking on campus for residential students to bring their vehicles. So to make it fair, please leave your vehicle at home.