Eligibility Rules
Who is primarily eligible for OST?
Clients who cannot find sustainable employment with current skills, or who need skills enhancement for career advancement.
What is the purpose of the RATIONALE in ICM?
To show that OST is the fastest, most effective path to sustainable employment and that other options were considered.
What form tracks a client’s ongoing job search activities?
WorkBC Job Search Report.
What is the maximum WorkBC tuition support for OST per year?
$7,500.
What is the first step when opening OST in ICM?
Open the OST service in ICM and enter the application date, start date, end date, NOC, and training institution as service provider.
Can a client who has already completed OST apply for a new OST program?
Yes, but a Rationale for Repeat Skills Enhancement Training Services must be entered in ICM.
Name two acceptable reasons a client may need OST.
1) Labour market changes; 2) Lack of marketable skills; 3) Health/medical condition preventing return to previous occupation.
How many job postings should clients gather to support their OST application?
6–10 recent job postings.
What is the maximum support for books and supplies per year?
$2,500, with Ministry approval if exceeded.
Where do you enter the mandatory RATIONALE for OST in ICM?
As an Activity under the OST Service in ICM.
Are seasonally employed clients automatically eligible for OST?
No. Training is allowed only if a documented rationale proves it benefits the client during unemployment or leads to year-round employment.
What two types of evidence must be included in the rationale?
1) Evidence of client job search; 2) Labour market research (or rationale why job search is not required).
Name three types of informational interviews clients must complete.
1) Employer interviews, 2) Employee interviews, 3) School interviews.
How should staff handle a budget surplus or shortfall?
Surplus: client contribution discussed; shortfall: discuss daily expense viability; document everything in HR3691.
What must be done after completing the HR3691 Client Services Application?
Review for completeness, ensure the Budget Worksheet is accurate, discuss client contributions, and attach supporting documentation.
What must be checked for SPEI clients before approving OST?
Confirm eligibility, set the SPEI flag in ICM, and document rationale if three-month rule is waived.
For clients with existing marketable skills, what is the OST focus?
Upgrading or retraining skills to reach sustainable employment, not unnecessary retraining.
Which forms/documents confirm tuition and school costs?
Letter of unconditional acceptance, exact course costs in writing, book and supplies list, school registration/schedule.
When is OST financial support payment issued to the client?
On the first day of classes; receipts will be requested frequently throughout training.
What are the monitoring requirements once a client starts OST?
Bi-weekly attendance monitoring, monthly progress reports, receipts for financial supports, and uploading completion certificate or transcript to ICM.