Better Jobs Ontario (Second Career Ontario)

Ready to retrain for a better career? Better Jobs Ontario (formerly Second Career) helps unemployed and underemployed Ontarians get the skills training they need to transition into in-demand jobs—with financial support for tuition, living expenses, and more.

Understanding Better Jobs Ontario

Better Jobs Ontario is a provincial employment program designed to help Ontarians who are unemployed or working in unstable jobs to retrain for careers in growing sectors.

Better Jobs Ontario was previously known as “Second Career.” The program was renamed in April 2022 and expanded to serve more Ontarians beyond those who had been laid off. Today, it helps a wide range of workers—including gig workers, the self-employed, and those who’ve been unemployed for extended periods—access skills training and find stable employment.

Unlike student loans, Better Jobs Ontario provides financial assistance you don’t repay. The program is delivered through Employment Ontario service providers who assess your eligibility, help you identify in-demand career paths, guide you through the application process, and connect you with approved training programs.

Eligibility Criteria

You may qualify for Better Jobs Ontario if you’re an Ontario resident who meets at least one of these criteria:

Laid-Off Workers

If you’ve been laid off from your job and are currently unemployed, or are working only temporary positions while seeking permanent employment. This includes workers laid off due to company closures, downsizing, or economic shifts.

Long-Term Unemployed

Unemployed for 12 consecutive weeks or longer and part of a low-income household. You don’t need to have been laid off—extended unemployment alone may qualify you.

Receiving Social Assistance or EI

You can apply while receiving Employment Insurance (EI), Ontario Works (OW), or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP).

Gig Workers & Self-Employed

Contract workers, freelancers, gig economy workers, and self-employed individuals seeking to transition to more stable employment can apply for Better Jobs Ontario support.

Underemployed Workers

Working in temporary positions, below your skill level, or in jobs that don’t provide stable income or benefits. If you’re seeking career advancement through retraining, you may qualify.

Career Changers

Looking to transition into a new field with better job prospects, higher pay, or more stability. Better Jobs Ontario can help you gain the skills needed for an in-demand career.

What Does Better Jobs Ontario Cover?

Better Jobs Ontario can provide comprehensive financial support including:

Training Costs

• Tuition fees (full program cost)
• Textbooks and course materials
• Student fees and supplies
• Electronic devices (laptops, tablets if required for your program)
• Instructional materials and equipment

Living Expenses

• Basic living allowance: Up to $500 per week while training
• Transportation: Travel costs to and from school
• Childcare: Support for childcare costs while attending training
• Disability supports: Costs related to disability accommodations
• Living away from home: If training requires relocation

Important: Support amounts are individualized. Your specific funding depends on your financial assessment, program costs, and personal circumstances.

How Much Funding Can You Receive?

There is no fixed amount for Better Jobs Ontario—funding is individualized.

Your support level is determined by:

• Program costs: Actual tuition, books, and fees for your chosen training
• Living expenses: Your rent, utilities, food, and other basic costs
• Family income: Your household’s financial resources
• Personal circumstances: Dependents, disability, distance from school
• Expected contribution: What you’re reasonably able to contribute

Funding Formula: (Your Training Costs + Living Expenses) – (Your Resources) = Better Jobs Ontario Support

Your Employment Ontario advisor will provide a personalized assessment showing exactly what financial support you may receive based on your specific situation.

Find the Right Training Program for Your Career Goals

Choosing the right training program is critical to your success with Better Jobs Ontario. The program supports training up to 2 years in length from approved Ontario colleges, universities, and private career colleges.

What to look for in a program:

• In-demand career: Programs that lead to jobs with strong hiring demand in Ontario
• Recognized credentials: Industry-recognized certifications, diplomas, or degrees
• Practical training: Hands-on learning, co-op placements, or field experience
• Your interests: Fields that match your strengths and career goals
• Better Jobs Ontario approved: Confirm the program qualifies for funding

Popular career fields with Better Jobs Ontario eligible programs:

• Healthcare: Personal Support Worker, Dental Assistant, Medical Office Administration
• Skilled Trades: Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, Welding, Automotive Service
• Technology: IT Support, Cybersecurity, Web Development, Network Administration
• Business: Accounting, Bookkeeping, Office Administration, Human Resources
• Human Services: Early Childhood Education, Social Service Worker, Community Support
• Creative & Digital: Graphic Design, Digital Media, Interactive Media Design

Search Better Jobs Ontario eligible programs by career field:

Browse training programs in your area of interest. Filter by location, program type, and field of study to find options that match your career goals.

Search Training Programs Now →

Once you’ve identified programs that interest you, contact an Employment Ontario service provider to discuss your eligibility and start your Better Jobs Ontario application. Your advisor will help you choose the training that’s right for your situation and career goals.

Other Student Aid Options

If you don’t qualify for Better Jobs Ontario or need additional support, check out other Ontario provincial programs such as OSAP, Ontario Student Scholarships, Ontario Student Bursaries, and more.

Make the best use of the opportunity provided by Better Jobs Ontario (Second Career Ontario) to attain new skill sets that will set you up for success in your career.