How to Qualify for New Brunswick's TSD Program:
If you live in New Brunswick and want to improve your skills or train for a new career, Oulton College is a great option. You may have heard about a financial program like Training and Skills Development (TSD) provided by WorkingNB. These programs help people get funding and support for career-focused education.
Whether you’re upgrading your current skills or starting fresh, they can guide you through the process and connect you with the right resources.
This valuable government resource offers non-repayable funding to help you access career training, provided you qualify. However, the application process can sometimes feel confusing or overwhelming. The good news is, that there are people and resources available to help you through it, step by step.
What is the TSD Program?
The Training and Skills Development (TSD) program is a New Brunswick government initiative. The program helps unemployed individuals gain the skills they need to rejoin the workforce. It is not meant for general post-secondary education; the program is focused on career-specific training that leads to full-time jobs in high-demand fields.
If you’re thinking about programs like Practical Nursing, Primary Care Paramedic, or Early Childhood Education (ECE) at Oulton College, TSD could help cover your college costs. This program provides financial support for industry-relevant education, helping you gain the skills employers are looking for.
Remember that Student Loans (repayable and non-repayable) and TSD (non-repayable) are two separate financial aid options, and need to be applied for separately.
What Is WorkingNB’s Role in the Process?
The Training and Skills Development (TSD) program, offered by the Government of New Brunswick through WorkingNB, could be your starting point.
You can’t apply directly to TSD. First, you’ll need to meet with a WorkingNB employment counselor. These counselors offer free services like:
- Career advice
- Help understanding the job market
- A personalized Employment Action Plan
- Guidance on whether training is the right next step for you
If your WorkingNB counselor sees a skills gap and agrees that a program- like Practical Nursing, Primary Care Paramedic, or Early Childhood Education at Oulton College – can help you get back to work, they may recommend TSD funding to support your training.
WorkingNB's Eligibility Criteria
Wondering if you qualify for the TSD program? Here’s what you need to know.
You must be:
- A resident of New Brunswick.
- Currently unemployed.
- At least 3 years out of high school before starting your training.
Additional requirements:
- Your training must lead to long-term, in-demand employment in New Brunswick.
- The program must not exceed 2 years in length, or 3 years if it includes a co-op placement.
- You must demonstrate that you have the financial ability to cover whatever funding gap TSD would leave. These funds can be (and most probably always will be) the provincial portion of your student loans.
- Important Note: Don’t Quit Your Job for Funding.
The TSD program is not for individuals who voluntarily leave employment just to pursue education. The program helps unemployed individuals gain the skills they need to overcome barriers and return to work.
If you’re currently working and thinking about career training, talk to a WorkingNB employment counselor first. They’ll help you understand your options and guide you through the process before you make any decisions.
What Programs at Oulton College Qualify for TSD?
Many career-oriented programs at Oulton College are aligned with the TSD program’s goals. Oulton College programs that meet the TSD program duration requirement , include:
- Practical Nursing
- Primary Care Paramedic
- Early Childhood Education
- Medical Office Administration
- Veterinary Technician
- Dental Assisting
These programs lead to sustainable employment in industries where New Brunswick needs skilled workers. The current Bachelor of Science in Nursing, is a three-year program and does not qualify for the TSD Program.
Pro Tip: During your appointment with WorkingNB, ask if your chosen Oulton College program is TSD-eligible.
Next Steps: How to Start the TSD Process
If you believe you meet the eligibility criteria, here’s how to move forward:
- Book an appointment with a WorkingNB career counselor.
- Discuss your employment goals and barriers.
- Collaborate on an Employment Action Plan.
- Determine if your chosen Oulton College program qualifies for TSD support.
- Begin the application process (with your counselor’s guidance).
Why TSD & Oulton College Make Sense Together
The TSD program is a great opportunity for unemployed New Brunswickers who want to build new skills and get into a high-demand career. The program trains you for jobs that employers are actively hiring for, so you can confidently return to work.
WorkingNB and TSD funding can help you take the next step. They’re here to support your career goals and ease the financial stress of training for a high-demand job.
Book an Admissions Meeting Today!
Remember that by investing in your education, you are investing in your future, gaining the skills and connections you need to thrive in your career and life.
Frequently asked questions:
What is the TSD program in New Brunswick?
The Training and Skills Development (TSD) program is a government-funded initiative that helps unemployed New Brunswick residents gain career-specific training for high-demand jobs.
Who qualifies for TSD funding through WorkingNB?
To qualify, you must be a New Brunswick resident, currently unemployed, and at least three years out of high school.
How do I apply for the TSD program?
You must first meet with a WorkingNB employment counselor. They’ll assess your situation, help create an Employment Action Plan, and guide you through the TSD application process if your chosen program qualifies.
*Please note that information may be subject to modifications. We encourage current and prospective students to visit the websites mentioned in order to obtain the most recent information.
