Can WorkBC pay for my training if I am unemployed?

Often yes. If you are unemployed or underemployed and a WorkBC case manager agrees the training supports your employment plan, WorkBC may fund approved programs.

Do I need to be on EI to get WorkBC training support?

Not always. WorkBC serves unemployed individuals and some employed people who need retraining. Eligibility depends on income, employment status, and local labour market needs.

What training can WorkBC fund?

WorkBC can fund approved short-term training, certificate programs, and sometimes diploma programs at eligible public and private institutions.

How do I start a WorkBC career transition plan?

Contact a WorkBC centre, meet with a case manager, discuss your work history and goals, and get approval for a training plan before enrolling.

WorkBC Career Transition: Training Funding for Unemployed BC Workers

A practical guide to using WorkBC for retraining, career change, or skills upgrading in British Columbia.

Last updated: 2026-07-26Author: BC Training Navigator Editorial TeamReviewed by: Independent policy reviewerOfficial sources: 3

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How we verify this information

Content is reviewed against official StudentAid BC, WorkBC, and PTIRU documentation.
We include direct links to official sources so you can confirm details before enrolling.
This page is independent and not affiliated with the Government of British Columbia.

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Professional meeting representing WorkBC career transition support

Short answer

Short answer: WorkBC may pay for approved training if you are unemployed or underemployed, a case manager agrees the training fits your employment plan, and the program is approved. It is not automatic.

Who WorkBC career transition suits

A good fit

Unemployed or working reduced hours
Recent EI claimant or EI exhaustee
Occupation is in low demand
Willing to work with a case manager
Training leads to in-demand work in your area

Usually not a fit

Currently employed full-time with no barriers
Training is not linked to local job demand
You want funding without an employment plan
You refuse to look for work during or after training

How to apply

Find a WorkBC centre near you and register as a job seeker.
Meet a case manager to discuss your work history, skills, and goals.
Get a labour market assessment to show why the training supports employment.
Submit a training plan with program details, costs, and start date.
Wait for approval before enrolling or paying tuition.

Check all your options

WorkBC is one path. Depending on your situation, StudentAid BC, the Future Skills Grant, or a school payment plan may also be worth exploring.

Check my funding options StudentAid BC eligibility

Frequently asked questions

Official sources to verify

Always confirm final eligibility, designation status, and funding details with the official sources above before enrolling or making financial decisions.

See in-demand BC jobs first

Before picking training, look at current Health Care Assistant and Early Childhood Educator openings. Real job postings show what employers actually require.

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Related guide

For a step-by-step explanation of WorkBC training funding, see our dedicated guide.

WorkBC funding guide

Free guide: 5 ways to pay for BC career training

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