Second Career Ontario

Take advantage of financial assistance

The first thought that inadvertently crosses our mind when we hear the word ‘student loan’ is student debt. While it is obvious that a loan will lead to debt that you must repay, Better Jobs Ontario is different – it’s not a loan at all! This government program provides funding that you don’t need to repay, designed to fuel your education aspirations and lead you to your dream career.

Better Jobs Ontario helps eligible applicants get skills training and financial support to rejoin the workforce quickly. This expanded program now offers even more support to help people train for new, in-demand jobs! Receive financial help up to $28,000 for programs 1 year or less, or up to $35,000 for programs that take up to 2 years to complete.

This funding can cover:

• Tuition
• Books and instructional costs
• Student fees, supplies and electronic devices
• Transportation
• Basic living allowance (up to $500 per week)
• Childcare support
• Disability-related supports
• Living away from home costs
• Language training

Those who qualify may have some or all of these costs covered through Better Jobs Ontario (previously known as Second Career Ontario). To find out if you qualify, you must visit an Employment Ontario service provider for an assessment interview. If you know which school you wish to attend or have a career in mind, search for a nearby school now!

Start training for a better job!

Open yourself up to new opportunities by getting trained for a new career! Check out all the ways Second Career Ontario / Better Jobs Ontario can make your future something to smile about:

1. Laid-off Workers: If you’ve been laid off and haven’t been working, or are working a temporary job just to cover costs, you may qualify for support.
2. Long-term Unemployed: Even if you weren’t laid off, if you’ve been unemployed for 12 weeks or longer and are part of a low-income household, you may be eligible.
3. Income Assistance Recipients: You can still apply if you receive Employment Insurance (EI), Ontario Works (OW), or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP).
4. Career Guidance: Training providers offer excellent programs, but how will you know what job is right for you? Browse career options and discuss your choices with a service provider.
5. A Fresh Start: It’s common to switch careers nowadays! It gives you a chance to learn something new, try a different field, and stay excited about your work.
6. Real Support: Better Jobs Ontario is not a loan – it’s funding from the Ontario government to help people who have been negatively impacted get back on their feet with new skills and better job prospects.