It all starts here.
We all have something that drives us to be our best. Turn your passion into a plan, and join us for a breakout year of career growth.
Year Up grads explain "Why I applied."
How To Apply
Below are the basic steps for applying. The application process may vary slightly in your area. But don’t worry, we’re always here to help you along the way.
Application Process
Step 1
Attend Your Info SessionWe know our program is different than the norm. That’s why we want to make sure you understand all we offer and how far Year Up can take you. Take the first step. Join us for an info session online or in-person.
Step 2
Complete ApplicationSubmit application and supporting documents. Documents include proof of high school diploma or GED, work history, proof of ability to work in the U.S. (we welcome DACA), references, and a brief personal essay. We’ll provide the application after your info session.
Step 3
Academic ReviewThe academic review and assessment help our career and education experts understand your starting point so that we can support your learning and professional development in the best way possible.
Step 4
Attend Your InterviewWe want to hear about you. Why are you interested in Year Up? What motivates you? How can we help you overcome any obstacle to your success in our program? Knowing our students is the first step in giving them the best training possible.
Step 5
Enroll In CollegeIf applying to a college-based Year Up program, you need to also apply and enroll with our college partner and complete the FAFSA form to secure financial aid. We can help with the details, but suggest you start these applications along with your Year Up application.
Step 6
Your “Year Up” BeginsIf accepted, your year of learning valuable technical and professional skills begins. You can look forward to career training, courses eligible for college credit, stipend payments, a corporate internship, a professional mentor, and our ongoing support.
Step 1
Attend Your Info SessionWe know our program is different than the norm. That’s why we want to make sure you understand all we offer and how far Year Up can take you. Take the first step. Join us for an info session online or in-person.
Step 2
Complete ApplicationSubmit application and supporting documents. Documents include proof of high school diploma or GED, work history, proof of ability to work in the U.S. (we welcome DACA), references, and a brief personal essay. We’ll provide the application after your info session.
Step 3
Academic ReviewThe academic review and assessment help our career and education experts understand your starting point so that we can support your learning and professional development in the best way possible.
Step 4
Attend Your InterviewWe want to hear about you. Why are you interested in Year Up? What motivates you? How can we help you overcome any obstacle to your success in our program? Knowing our students is the first step in giving them the best training possible.
Step 5
Enroll In CollegeIf applying to a college-based Year Up program, you need to also apply and enroll with our college partner and complete the FAFSA form to secure financial aid. We can help with the details, but suggest you start these applications along with your Year Up application.
Step 6
Your “Year Up” BeginsIf accepted, your year of learning valuable technical and professional skills begins. You can look forward to career training, courses eligible for college credit, stipend payments, a corporate internship, a professional mentor, and our ongoing support.
Classes begin in February/March and August/September at most campuses. Applications are considered on a rolling basis until the class is filled. Please apply early as space is limited.
Download your application checklistEligibility Requirements
- 18-24 years old
- High school graduate or GED
- Low to moderate income
- U.S. citizenship, permanent resident, DACA recipient, or employment authorization card
- Available five days a week (M-F) for the full year of the program
- Highly motivated to learn new technical and professional skills
- Have not obtained a bachelor’s degree
Do you have DACA status?
Year Up strongly supports DACA and welcomes young adults with DACA status. For more, see our DACA Guidance page.
Schedule Your Info Session
To apply and learn more.
Get StartedFrequently
asked questions
Year Up is offered at no cost to you. As a non-profit we're not in this to make money. We're in it for you. In fact we offer you an educational stipend to help offset your basic expenses. In locations where we partner with colleges, you will still be responsible for college tuition and fees, but we work with you to receive grants and funding that can cover college costs.
Yes, many students work part time jobs during evenings or weekends while attending Year Up. It can be challenging to balance, but it's possible. While the stipend won't replace a full-time job, it will help offset some of your basic expenses. If you are worried about your income, our student services staff has experience discussing part time jobs for students and can help you develop a plan that will enable your success at Year Up and ensure you can cover your expenses.
Year Up has a rolling admissions process. We encourage you to apply early because spaces can fill up quickly. We begin a new cohort every six months, so if you don't make it into the current class, we encourage you to apply for the next. Visit the location page for the location nearest you to view class start dates.
Year Up is an in-person program, and we do not offer online classes at this time. You must be able to regularly attend, in-person. Find the location nearest you.
Although Year Up does not guarantee a full-time job after graduation, we do have a dedicated team that is committed to helping you get a job after graduation. With that support, 90% of our graduates are employed or pursuing postsecondary education within 4-months of graduation.