Job Training for Single Mothers in Maine
Louisiana Job Training for Single Mothers (2025 No‑Fluff Guide)
Last updated: September 2025
This guide shows you where to get training money fast in Louisiana, how to keep child care and bills covered while you train, and who to call today. We only link to government and established nonprofits, and we give exact dollar amounts when the state publishes them. See our editorial standards at the end.
Quick help box (read this first)
- Call an American Job Center near you and ask for a same‑week WIOA orientation. In New Orleans, call 504‑658‑4500 (JOB1); in Metairie call 504‑838‑5678; in Avondale call 504‑227‑1283; in Shreveport call 318‑676‑7788; in Alexandria call 318‑767‑6030. Or use the state’s locator to find your closest center: Find an American Job Center (AJC) near you. (nola.gov, jeffparish.gov, legalconsumer.com, cenlabusinessdirectory.cenlachamber.org)
- Apply for the M.J. Foster Promise award (up to 3,200∗∗peryear;max∗∗3,200** per year; max **6,400 over 3 years) for short‑term training at Louisiana public colleges. Start here: M.J. Foster Promise Program – official page. Minimum age is 19 for 2025 applicants. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Get child care covered while you train. Check eligibility for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). The state raised eligibility to about 200% of poverty; for a family of 3 that’s $43,440/year. Apply through the Louisiana Department of Education: CCAP: How to qualify and apply. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- On SNAP? Ask to be referred to SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) for free training plus help with transportation, work gear, testing fees, and more. Start here: SNAP E&T – DCFS. Note: Able‑Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) must meet work rules statewide since Oct 1, 2024. (dcfs.louisiana.gov, dss.louisiana.gov)
- Have a disability? Call Louisiana Rehabilitation Services (LRS) for funded training and job placement support. Statewide office: 225‑219‑2225 or regional LRS office numbers here: LRS regional offices. (laworks.net)
Quick reference cheat sheet (programs and dollar amounts)
| Program | What it pays | Who it helps | Where to apply | Typical timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M.J. Foster Promise (LOSFA) | Up to 3,200/year∗∗(max∗∗3,200/year** (max **6,400 over 3 years). Covers tuition, required fees, and mandatory books/supplies after other aid. | Louisiana residents 19+ in approved high‑demand training at two‑year public colleges and some licensed proprietary schools. | M.J. Foster Promise – apply | Application opens June; awards processed by school financial aid; funds post once enrollment verified (often within 2–6 weeks of class start). (mylosfa.la.gov) |
| WIOA training via American Job Centers | Pays for approved training (via an Individual Training Account) plus supportive services like testing fees, tools, and sometimes transportation. Amounts vary by local board. | Adults with barriers to work have priority; veterans always get priority of service. | Call your AJC and ask for “WIOA orientation” and the ETPL list. Find your AJC | Orientation 1–2 weeks; eligibility docs review 1–2 weeks; training start depends on school calendar. (wioaplans.ed.gov, laworks.net) |
| SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) | Reimbursements for reasonable costs to participate (transportation, dependent care, uniforms, fees, books, tools; emergency housing/utility help in limited cases). | Current SNAP recipients. | Ask DCFS or your AJC to refer you to a SNAP E&T provider. SNAP E&T info and providers | Referral within days; reimbursements usually after receipts/verification—ask your provider to pre‑approve before you buy. (dcfs.louisiana.gov, wioaplans.ed.gov) |
| STEP (for FITAP/TANF recipients) | Job training, coaching, and support services while you receive FITAP cash assistance (see FITAP amounts below). | Work‑eligible FITAP parents. | Your DCFS caseworker enrolls you. SET for Success – STEP | Enrollment at application or recert; activities begin within weeks. (dss.louisiana.gov) |
| Registered Apprenticeship | “Earn while you learn.” Wages from day one; college credit/industry credentials; tuition often covered by employer/union. | All adults who meet entry standards. | Search Louisiana’s apprenticeship directory; call 225‑342‑3111 for help. Apprenticeship Programs – LWC | Employer selection can take 2–8 weeks; paid training starts upon hire. (laworks.net) |
Start here: the fastest way to funded training
- Step 1: Call your nearest American Job Center and schedule a WIOA orientation this week. Say: “I’m a single parent seeking WIOA‑funded training and supportive services; please book me for the next orientation.” Use the AJC locator or call JOB1 New Orleans 504‑658‑4500, East Jefferson 504‑838‑5678, West Jefferson 504‑227‑1283, Shreveport 318‑676‑7788, Alexandria 318‑767‑6030. (nola.gov, jeffparish.gov, legalconsumer.com, cenlabusinessdirectory.cenlachamber.org)
- Step 2: Apply for the M.J. Foster Promise award now if your program is eligible (many allied health, welding, IT, manufacturing, and transportation programs qualify). It’s “last‑dollar” aid up to 3,200/year∗∗(max∗∗3,200/year** (max **6,400). You must also complete FAFSA for Title IV‑eligible programs. Apply here: M.J. Foster Promise – LOSFA. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Step 3: Line up child care through CCAP so you can attend classes. CCAP eligibility expanded to roughly 200% of poverty; for a family of 3 that’s $43,440/year. Start the application and ask your AJC or SNAP E&T provider for help with paperwork: CCAP – Qualifying & Sliding Fee Scale. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Step 4: If you get SNAP or FITAP, ask your worker to refer you to SET for Success (SNAP E&T or STEP). These programs can reimburse transportation and other training costs. Details and provider list: SET for Success & SNAP E&T and SNAP E&T – DCFS. (dss.louisiana.gov, dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Step 5: Pick a program from Louisiana’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). Your AJC staff will show you eligible schools and in‑demand occupations and help enroll you. Louisiana’s WIOA policies require use of the ETPL and prioritize low‑income parents. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
- Reality check: Plan for documents and wait times. Most centers need photo ID, Social Security card, proof of Louisiana residency, income, children’s ages, and schedule. Expect 2–4 weeks to get fully enrolled and funded, longer if a class is full.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the AJC for a “supportive services” review, consider a paid apprenticeship application, or enroll using M.J. Foster while your WIOA is pending.
Child care while you train: CCAP
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) can cover much of your child care while you attend school or training or work. The state expanded eligibility and increased provider rates to broaden access.
- Eligibility highlights (2025):
- Parents must be working or in school/training at least 20 hours/week (or a full‑time student), or actively job‑seeking or experiencing homelessness; child must be under 13 (or under 18 with a disability). (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Louisiana raised CCAP income eligibility to about 200% of the federal poverty level (example: $43,440/year for a family of three). See the sliding fee scale on the LDOE site. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- 2025 monthly gross income thresholds (examples from LDOE’s sliding fee scale):
| Household size | Monthly gross income at entry (examples) |
|---|---|
| 2 | $4,187 |
| 3 | $5,173 |
| 4 | $6,158 |
| 5 | $7,143 |
| 6 | $8,128 |
- How to apply:
- Apply online via the Department of Education CCAP page: CCAP – Apply & FAQs. Ask your AJC or SNAP E&T provider for help if you hit snags. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Timelines: CCAP decisions can take a few weeks; if your training start date is close, submit your application and ask for help from your AJC to explain urgency to LDOE.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your SNAP E&T/STEP provider about short‑term dependent‑care assistance while CCAP is pending. Providers can reimburse reasonable costs tied to participation if pre‑approved. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
Cash assistance while you job‑hunt and train: FITAP + STEP
If your income is very low, Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program (FITAP) provides modest cash aid and requires participation in the STEP work program (unless exempt). Current FITAP flat‑grant amounts (2025):
| Household members | Monthly FITAP cash amount |
|---|---|
| 1 | $244 |
| 2 | $376 |
| 3 | $484 |
| 4 | $568 |
| 5 | $654 |
| 6 | $732 |
| 7 | $804 |
| 8 | $882 |
| 9 | $954 |
- Apply online (or upload documents) via LA CAFÉ. Phone help: 888‑524‑3578 (M‑F 7:30–6). (dcfs.la.gov)
- STEP gives coaching, work readiness classes, and referrals to training. If you’re required to engage, your DCFS worker will enroll you. Overview: SET for Success – STEP. (dss.louisiana.gov)
- Timelines: Application interview normally within 2 weeks; decisions can take several weeks based on documents.
- Reality check: FITAP benefits are low; use it mainly to stabilize while you stack WIOA training + CCAP + SNAP E&T supports.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If FITAP is denied, you can still access WIOA and M.J. Foster. If child support or sanctions complicate things, ask your caseworker about good‑cause exemptions or appeal rights (fair hearing info is on your DCFS notices). (dcfs.la.gov)
Food help that connects to training: SNAP + SNAP E&T
- If you get SNAP, the SNAP E&T program can connect you to training, and reimburse costs related to participation (transportation, books, gear, testing fees; some providers can help with short‑term housing/utilities twice on an emergency basis). See provider list and details: SNAP E&T (providers and supports). (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Louisiana ended parish waivers for Able‑Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs). Since Oct 1, 2024, ABAWDs ages 18–54 must meet federal work requirements statewide (80 hours/month in work or approved programs) to avoid a 3‑month time limit. If this affects you, enrolling in SNAP E&T or WIOA can help you meet the rule. (dss.louisiana.gov)
- FY25 SNAP max benefits rose slightly: for example, a 4‑person household max is $975/month. (dss.louisiana.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If your E&T costs exceed provider caps, ask about exceptions or pairing with WIOA or community grants. USDA requires states to reimburse reasonable, necessary participation costs; ask for written reasons if denied. (fns.usda.gov)
Tuition help for short‑term, in‑demand training: M.J. Foster Promise (the “big one” for adults)
- What it covers: After Pell and other aid, M.J. Foster pays up to 3,200perawardyear∗∗(usually∗∗3,200 per award year** (usually **1,600/term) toward tuition, required fees, and mandatory books/supplies; lifetime max $6,400 over 3 years (can be used in 1 year for some high‑cost programs). (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Who qualifies (high level): Louisiana resident, age 19+ (2025 rule), no prior associate degree or higher; enrolled in an approved high‑demand program (healthcare, IT, manufacturing, construction, transportation/logistics). FAFSA required for a second disbursement if your program is Title IV‑eligible. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Where to use it: LCTCS community/technical colleges statewide and certain Board‑of‑Regents‑licensed schools. Your college financial aid office processes the award. See examples of eligible programs on college pages (e.g., welding, LPN, EMT, patient care tech, HVAC, IT support). (ladelta.edu, lsue.edu, susla.edu)
- Timelines: Apply early (June window opens most years). Funding is first‑come, first‑billed; awards post after you start classes.
- Reality check: It’s “last‑dollar,” so you still must file FAFSA if your program allows it. Some schools will require you to set up a payment plan until aid disburses.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If ineligible due to age, degree, or program, ask the AJC about WIOA funding or consider a registered apprenticeship where the employer pays you to train. (wioaplans.ed.gov, laworks.net)
WIOA training through your American Job Center
- What it pays: Through an Individual Training Account (ITA), WIOA can pay approved training costs from the state’s Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). Local boards also fund supportive services (e.g., uniforms, certification exams, sometimes transportation). Policy is set by the Louisiana Workforce Commission and local boards. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
- Priority for single parents: WIOA gives priority to low‑income adults and those receiving public assistance; veterans and eligible spouses always receive priority of service. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
- How to start: Call your AJC (see numbers above) and ask for “WIOA orientation” and help selecting an ETPL program that leads to in‑demand jobs.
- Timelines: Orientation and intake typically within 2 weeks; training begins on your school’s calendar.
- Reality check: ITA dollar caps and supportive service limits vary by parish/regional board. Get your case manager to confirm, in writing, what costs are covered (and what isn’t) before you enroll.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If WIOA funds are exhausted or your program isn’t on the ETPL, ask about on‑the‑job training (OJT), paid work experience, or co‑enrollment with SNAP E&T or M.J. Foster to cover gaps. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
Apprenticeships in Louisiana: earn while you learn
- Louisiana has dozens of registered apprenticeships in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, IT, utilities, and more. Search by trade or region: Registered Apprenticeship Programs (LWC). State contact (LWC): 225‑342‑3111. (laworks.net)
- Example wages (union electricians, 2024‑25): Journeyman wireman base rates in Lake Charles/Lafayette are 31.98–31.98–32.78/hour plus benefits; apprentices earn a percentage while training. Wages vary by trade and area. (ibewlu861.org)
- Local community support: The Urban League of Louisiana is actively connecting residents to apprenticeships in tech, energy, construction, and automotive, and recently received federal funding to expand slots. Ask about cohorts in New Orleans and Baton Rouge. (nolanewswire.com, nul.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If you don’t meet math/reading cut scores, enroll in WorkReady U adult education to brush up and retest quickly (see below). Ask your AJC about free prep.
Finish high school fast (HiSET) and get into college training
- Adult education in Louisiana is run by WorkReady U (LCTCS) at nearly 200 sites. Start at your nearest community/technical college or ask your AJC for a referral. Overview: About WorkReady U (LCTCS). (lctcs.edu)
- HiSET test costs in Louisiana (2025):
- In‑person (paper or computer): 115total∗∗(fivesubtests),plusa∗∗115 total** (five subtests), plus a **10 state admin fee once per calendar year.
- At‑home online: $172.50 total.
- You may retake each subtest up to 2 times in 12 months paying only test‑center or remote proctor fees; the full fee applies on the 4th attempt. Details: HiSET Louisiana fees. (hiset.org)
- Many WorkReady U sites offer test vouchers or scholarships; ask your local program or AJC. Example scholarship info from Louisiana Delta Community College’s Adult Ed page. (ladelta.edu)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If childcare or schedules block attendance, ask your program about evening/online classes or co‑enroll through SNAP E&T to get transportation or testing costs reimbursed. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
Keep your health coverage while training
Medicaid income limits (effective March 1, 2025) for expansion adults/family planning:
| Household size | Monthly limit (expansion & Take Charge Plus) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,800 |
| 2 | $2,433 |
| 3 | $3,065 |
| 4 | $3,698 |
If you qualify, enroll to avoid medical bills derailing training. LDH is also increasing certain provider reimbursement rates in 2025, which should not affect your eligibility but may improve access. (ldh.la.gov)
Transportation help
- SNAP E&T and STEP providers can reimburse reasonable transportation costs (bus passes, mileage, gas cards, rideshare, etc.) when needed for approved activities—always ask for pre‑approval. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
- If you have Medicaid medical appointments, you may be eligible for Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT), scheduled through your health plan’s broker; this is for medical visits, not classes, but can help you juggle conflicts. (ldh.la.gov)
What Louisiana wages look like after training (to set your goals)
| Occupation (common training path) | Louisiana median annual wage |
|---|---|
| Welders (certificates; often WIOA/M.J. Foster eligible) | $59,860 |
| Light truck/delivery drivers (CDL or short-term training) | $38,020 |
| Electrician apprentices → journeyman (apprenticeship) | Apprentice varies; journeyman base 31.98–31.98–32.78/hour in certain regions (excludes benefits) |
Wages vary widely by parish and employer. Use your AJC’s labor market info when choosing a program.
Local organizations single moms actually use (job training and wrap‑around help)
- Goodwill Technical College (Southeast LA) – short‑term healthcare and office programs with wrap‑around supports (listed SNAP E&T provider; Orleans/Jefferson/St. Bernard/St. Tammany/St. Charles/St. John/Calcasieu). (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Café Reconcile (New Orleans) – culinary training + coaching. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Louisiana Green Corps (Orleans/Jefferson) – 14‑week construction + credentials. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- YWCA Greater Baton Rouge – job retention, referrals to BRCC, internships. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Ben D. Johnson Educational Center (Natchitoches) – food service certification and construction basics. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Dress for Success New Orleans – interview outfits, career center (1700 Josephine St., Suite 101; 504‑891‑4337). (neworleans.dressforsuccess.org)
- Urban League of Louisiana – apprenticeship pathways (NOLA/Baton Rouge) and Women’s Business Resource Center. (nolanewswire.com)
American Job Centers: fast contacts
| Region | Center | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| New Orleans (JOB1) | JOB1 Business & Career Solutions, 1307 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., Suite 3000 | 504‑658‑4500 |
| Jefferson – Eastbank | East Jefferson American Job Center, 1801 Airline Dr., Suite F, Metairie | 504‑838‑5678 |
| Jefferson – Westbank | West Jefferson American Job Center, 709 Churchill Pkwy., Avondale | 504‑227‑1283 |
| Shreveport | Caddo American Job Center, 2121 Fairfield Ave., Suite 100 | 318‑676‑7788 |
| Alexandria | Rapides American Job Center, 5610‑B Coliseum Blvd. | 318‑767‑6030 |
| All parishes | Statewide locator and directions | Find your nearest AJC |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Starting classes before your funding is approved. Get your WIOA/M.J. Foster award letter or vendor authorization in writing.
- Forgetting childcare. Apply for CCAP as soon as you pick a program. Ask SNAP E&T/STEP about temporary dependent‑care help while CCAP is pending. (doe.louisiana.gov, wioaplans.ed.gov)
- Not asking for reimbursements up front. SNAP E&T/STEP must pre‑approve many costs; otherwise, you may not get paid back. (fns.usda.gov)
- Missing SNAP ABAWD rules. If you’re 18–54 with no dependents in your SNAP case, enroll in work or training for 80 hours/month to keep benefits. (dss.louisiana.gov)
- Skipping FAFSA. Even for short programs, some schools require FAFSA for your M.J. Foster disbursement. (mylosfa.la.gov)
Real‑world examples (what this looks like)
- Example 1 (Baton Rouge): A mom with two kids enrolls in Patient Care Tech at BRCC. She gets M.J. Foster ($3,200) + WIOA covers exam fees and scrubs. CCAP pays child care for her 3‑ and 6‑year‑olds. She uses SNAP E&T for bus passes for clinicals.
- Example 2 (Lake Charles): A mom chooses a registered apprenticeship in electrical. She starts at apprentice pay, increases every 6–12 months, and doesn’t owe tuition. CCAP helps with child care during classroom nights; her AJC buys required boots.
- Example 3 (New Orleans): A mom on SNAP joins a SNAP E&T culinary training at Café Reconcile, gets a ServSafe credential, and transitions into a paid job while she finishes her HiSET at a WorkReady U site.
(Your mix will be different; the key is stacking programs.)
FAQs (Louisiana‑specific)
- Can I combine M.J. Foster and WIOA?
Yes. M.J. Foster is last‑dollar aid; WIOA can still buy tools, testing fees, and other costs your college doesn’t cover. Ask both programs to coordinate. (mylosfa.la.gov, wioaplans.ed.gov) - How fast can I start?
If you have documents ready, many AJCs can get you through orientation and eligibility in 2–4 weeks. Cohort programs start on set dates; apprenticeships depend on employer hiring. - I’m on SNAP but worried about work rules. What counts?
Working 80 hours a month, SNAP E&T participation, WIOA training, or a combo totaling 80 hours meets the ABAWD requirement. (dss.louisiana.gov) - What does CCAP consider “in training”?
LDOE accepts accredited school or training programs (including many WIOA programs). You must be in class/training at least 20 hours/week (or full‑time student). (doe.louisiana.gov) - Will SNAP E&T pay for child care and transportation?
Yes—if it’s necessary for participation and pre‑approved. Amounts vary by provider and are based on reasonable costs. (wioaplans.ed.gov) - What if I have a disability or a child with a disability?
Call LRS for vocational rehabilitation services (training, accommodations, job placement). Find your local LRS office on the state site. (laworks.net) - I need a high school diploma. What’s the cheapest way?
WorkReady U adult education is free; HiSET total in‑person test fees are 115∗∗inLouisiana(remote∗∗115** in Louisiana (remote **172.50). Ask about vouchers. (hiset.org) - Are apprenticeships paid?
Yes. You’re an employee from day one, with wage increases as you progress. Search Louisiana’s apprenticeship list by trade. (laworks.net) - I’m a veteran. Do I get priority?
Yes. Veterans and eligible spouses receive priority of service for WIOA and other covered programs. Tell your AJC up front. (wioaplans.ed.gov) - What about health insurance while I train?
Medicaid expansion covers adults up to 1,800∗∗(1‑person)or∗∗1,800** (1‑person) or **3,698 (4‑person) monthly income (as of Mar 1, 2025). Apply if you qualify. (ldh.la.gov)
Documents you’ll likely need (Application checklist)
- Photo ID and Social Security cards (you and children)
- Proof of Louisiana residency (lease, utility)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, SNAP/FITAP notices)
- Children’s birth certificates and, if applicable, disability documentation/IEP (for CCAP)
- School acceptance letter or class schedule (for CCAP/WIOA/M.J. Foster)
- FAFSA confirmation (for Title IV‑eligible programs; needed for M.J. Foster second disbursement) (mylosfa.la.gov)
Diverse communities: targeted help and tips
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask AJCs for safe‑workplace employers and inclusive providers. Many SNAP E&T partners (e.g., Goodwill, YEP) offer supportive case management. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Call LRS for your own training accommodations and vocational services; CCAP eligibility extends to children under 18 with disabilities. (laworks.net, doe.louisiana.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Tell the AJC upfront for priority of service; ask your college about credit for military training and VA education benefits alongside WIOA. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms (with eligible status): WorkReady U offers ESL and HiSET; SNAP/CCAP may be available depending on status. Start with AJC + WorkReady U. (lctcs.edu)
- Tribal citizens: Check with your tribe for workforce programs and scholarships, and coordinate with your AJC for co‑enrollment.
- Rural single moms: Use the AJC locator for affiliate sites, ask about virtual orientations, and request mileage reimbursement through SNAP E&T where available. (laworks.net)
- Single fathers: Most of these programs serve all parents; eligibility rules are the same.
- Language access: DCFS and many AJCs provide language services; ask for an interpreter when you call or visit. (dss.louisiana.gov)
Region‑by‑region resources (examples)
- New Orleans metro: JOB1 – City Office of Workforce Development (NOLA) – 504‑658‑4500. SNAP E&T providers include Café Reconcile, Louisiana Green Corps, Goodwill Technical College, YEP. (nola.gov, dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Jefferson Parish (Eastbank/Westbank): Eastbank 504‑838‑5678; Westbank 504‑227‑1283. Ask for WIOA orientation and ETPL options. (jefferson-parish-government.azurewebsites.net)
- Shreveport/Northwest LA: Caddo AJC 318‑676‑7788. Apprenticeship and industrial programs are active in this region. (legalconsumer.com)
- Alexandria/Central LA: Rapides AJC 318‑767‑6030. LRS Region VI is also here for disability‑related training. (cenlabusinessdirectory.cenlachamber.org)
- All other parishes: Use the AJC Service Locator to find the closest center and contacts. (laworks.net)
Tables you can scan fast
CCAP quick income reference (monthly, selected sizes)
| Size | Income |
|---|---|
| 2 | $4,187 |
| 3 | $5,173 |
| 4 | $6,158 |
| 5 | $7,143 |
| 6 | $8,128 |
FITAP grant amounts
| Persons | $/mo |
|---|---|
| 1 | $244 |
| 2 | $376 |
| 3 | $484 |
| 4 | $568 |
| 5 | $654 |
| 6 | $732 |
| 7 | $804 |
| 8 | $882 |
HiSET test fees in Louisiana (2025)
| Test mode | Total expected fees | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Test center (paper or computer) | $115 | + one‑time $10 annual state fee; 2 retakes pay only test‑center fee |
| At‑home remote | $172.50 | + one‑time $10 annual state fee |
Sample Louisiana wages after training
| Job | Median annual wage (LA) |
|---|---|
| Welder | $59,860 |
| Light truck/delivery driver | $38,020 |
American Job Center quick contacts
| Area | Phone |
|---|---|
| JOB1 New Orleans | 504‑658‑4500 |
| East Jefferson (Metairie) | 504‑838‑5678 |
| West Jefferson (Avondale) | 504‑227‑1283 |
| Shreveport (Caddo) | 318‑676‑7788 |
| Alexandria (Rapides) | 318‑767‑6030 |
| Find your local center | AJC Service Locator |
If something falls through (Plan B ideas)
- Ask your AJC about on‑the‑job training (OJT) where the employer is reimbursed a portion of your wages while you learn.
- Shift to a registered apprenticeship so you earn from day one.
- Use M.J. Foster for tuition now, then add WIOA for tools/exams next term. (mylosfa.la.gov, wioaplans.ed.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Louisiana agencies (LWC, DCFS, LDOE, LDH), USDA, and established nonprofits. It follows our ASingleMother.org Editorial Standards and is updated regularly. We are independent researchers, not a state agency, and cannot guarantee outcomes. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Key sources verified for this edition:
- WIOA, AJC locator, Apprenticeship directory, and state plan policies (Louisiana Workforce Commission). (laworks.net, wioaplans.ed.gov)
- SNAP E&T and SET for Success (DCFS). ABAWD statewide changes effective Oct 1, 2024. (dcfs.louisiana.gov, dss.louisiana.gov)
- CCAP eligibility and sliding fee scale (LDOE). (doe.louisiana.gov)
- M.J. Foster Promise (LOSFA): award amounts and 2025 age rule. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- FITAP (cash grant amounts), application, and STEP overview (DCFS). (dcfs.la.gov, dss.louisiana.gov)
- Medicaid income limits (effective 3/1/2025). (ldh.la.gov)
- HiSET Louisiana fees (ETS/HiSET). (hiset.org)
- Local providers and community resources (DCFS provider list; Dress for Success; Urban League announcements). (dcfs.louisiana.gov, neworleans.dressforsuccess.org, nolanewswire.com)
Disclaimer
Program amounts, eligibility, and timelines can change. Always verify with the relevant agency or your AJC before you enroll or spend money. This guide is informational and not legal advice. We keep our site secure and do not collect sensitive personal data; still, never share SSNs or case numbers by email unless you initiated contact with the official agency.
If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48–72 hours under our editorial policy. (dss.louisiana.gov)
Reality notes and warnings
- Funding is first‑come in many programs. Start applications the same week you decide to train.
- Keep receipts and ask for approvals in writing for any reimbursement.
- If you’re close to losing SNAP due to ABAWD rules, enroll in training immediately and document your hours (target 80+ hours/month). (dss.louisiana.gov)
By following the steps above—AJC orientation, M.J. Foster application, CCAP for child care, and SNAP E&T/STEP for supports—you can piece together a workable plan to train for a higher‑paying job in Louisiana without derailing your household budget.
🏛️More Maine Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Maine
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
