No, WIA youth programs are federally funded and are free of charge for eligible youth.

The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998 created a new environment for people seeking jobs and financial assistance for training. WIA, the replacement for the Job Training Partnership Act (1983-1999), places an emphasis on universal service, accountability, customer choice, and integration of service through a one-stop approach where service partners join together in the JobLink Career Centers. WIA Youth services are comprehensive, year round youth programs designed to help youth succeed in education and employment. Services include tutoring and educational services, work experience opportunities, leadership development, community service, mentoring, support services, and follow-up services.

To be eligible for enrollment into a WIA youth program a youth must be between 14 and 21 years old, low income and have at least one of the following barriers: deficient in reading or math skills, school dropout, homeless, runaway or foster child, pregnant or parenting youth, offender, or an individual who requires additional assistance to complete an educational program or to secure and hold employment.