JobFit Survey

Job seekers who wish to upgrade their skills through institutional training programs such as those offered at community colleges, Michigan Technical Education Centers (M-TECs) and private vocational schools may qualify for our tuition assistance program. This program provides scholarships, called individual training accounts,  in high demand jobs and is designed to give job seekers added flexibility and convenience. It recognizes that many Michigan workers are not prepared for new and emerging jobs of the 21st century and need to invest in  additional training to remain competitive in the job market. While funding is limited this year, we do have have funding available and we are continuing to process applications for the program.

Program Elements 

• Up to two years of tuition assistance at an approved Michigan community college, university or other approved training program.  Priority will be given to those seeking funding for one-year or less.
• To qualify, workers will need to take a skills assessment test administered by a Michigan Works! agency.
• Qualifying workers must pursue a degree or other occupational certificate in a high-demand occupation, emerging industry, or entrepreneurship program.

Who Can Benefit

• Any Michigan resident who is currently unemployed, has been laid off or received a notice of termination or layoff from employment, or whose family income is below poverty level may qualify for a scholarship.
• Participants must be at least 18 years old, must not have graduated from high school in the last two years, and must not be full-time college students.
• Those who meet eligibility requirements will be served on a first-come, first- served basis,  provided funds are not limited. When funds are limited, priority will be given to public assistance recipients, other low income individuals, long-term unemployed, individuals with disabilities, veterans and other individuals identified as a priority by the Workforce Development Council.

Features

Those awarded an scholarship will receive a voucher that can be used for tuition, books, and fees for their approved training program.

• While scholarships may not cover the entire costs of training, they can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
• Financial aid may also be available through the training institution.

How to Access Services
All those interested in the program must attend a Michigan Works! orientation session as the first step. These sessions are posted on our workshop calendar. Seats are limited, so to guarantee a spot you must register. 

Register for the next available session >>

After you attend an information session,  you will be asked to complete a skills assessment and participate in career planning workshops. You will also meet with a customer service specialist, who will help you prepare an individual training plan consistent with your current skills and career goals.  In order to meet program guidelines, those who use these services will be asked to provide basic demographic and background data, and  may be asked to document employment status, family size, family income, or other background information.

 

Questions?

If you have questions about the tuition assistance program, e-mail us and we will respond quickly.

Other Useful Information

Visit the state's career planning site at  www.mycareereducation.org to see a complete listing of all training programs approved for individual training accounts. This site also contains detailed information on training institutions and training programs.

Training is critically important for employability in today's job market. Use Michigan Works! services, including workshops and meetings with career counselors, to help plan your career transition. Many schools and training programs offer grants and loans to make the training more affordable and Michigan Works! can help you identify these sources of financial aid. While training funds are limited, there is still some funding left. Those individuals who have attended workshops and met with our staff will have priority.