With the right training, preparation and workplace accommodations, people with disabilities can have rewarding careers. Our Vocational Rehabilitation Services unit can help you prepare for, find and keep a job, and live as independently as possible.
Training
If you don’t have work skills, you may need some training. This can range from on-the-job training to more formal classroom education at community and technical colleges and public and private universities. You and your counselor will choose the field of study you need for your job goal. The choice of school is up to you.
We can help pay for basic educational expenses, but there are limits. In most cases, you will be expected to cover some of the costs.
Financial assistance from us can include tuition, fees, books, supplies, tools and equipment for training. However, if you choose a private school or a school that is out of state, we pay no more than the cost to attend a Minnesota state college.
How do we determine how much to spend on training costs?
- First, we look at the total costs for tuition and mandatory fees.
- Second, we subtract non-merit based aid that comes directly from the school you attend.
- Third, we subtract other non-merit based aid from the remaining tuition and fees or the agency’s tuition limit amount, if applicable, whichever is less.
- Fourth, we subtract the amount you and your family can pay for training.
You or your family will have some financial responsibility for your education and training. You must apply for financial aid from the school you will be attending. We cannot help cover training costs if you don’t apply. In most cases, you will be responsible for paying for room and board and other living expenses.
If you receive education and training services, you and your counselor will develop a list of academic responsibilities. These can include:
- Going to class regularly
- Getting average or better grades
- Keeping in regular contact with your counselor
Most of our Vocational Rehabilitation Services Offices are located within a CareerForce location. A handful of our vocational rehabilitation counselors work out of our stand-alone offices.
Locations near you