EDD Training Extension - Can I enroll in a second approved training while on unemployment?

Yes, you can apply for a second CTB training program, but there's no guarantee EDD will approve it. You need to submit a new DE 8736 Training Enrollment form before your current program ends. Make sure the new program meets their criteria for improving employability in a demand occupation. They'll evaluate if the second program genuinely enhances your job prospects beyond what the first program provided. I went through this last year - completed a medical coding program and then got approved for a specialized billing certification. The key was showing how the second training built on the first and would significantly improve my job prospects. Your case sounds similar with the specialized front-end course building on your coding bootcamp.

idk if this helps but my cousin did 2 trainings back 2 back last year. first was some basic IT thing then some kinda network security program. he said it was approved but took like 3 weeks between them where he had to do regular job search. good luck!

I tried doing two programs back-to-back and they DENIED my second one!!! They said the first program should have been sufficient for me to find work and that I was just trying to extend benefits. BE CAREFUL! The EDD representative was super rude and basically accused me of trying to game the system. I ended up having to do job search again and almost lost my benefits completely because I missed a certification deadline while dealing with this mess. Make sure your second program is CLEARLY different and adds obvious value beyond the first one. And document EVERYTHING.

You need to contact EDD directly about this. Training extensions are case-by-case and depend on your specific situation. You can't rely on what happened to other people.

I was in your exact situation last year. Finishing up my first approved training and struggling to find work. I found Claimyr (claimyr.com) when I couldn't get through to EDD by phone to ask about a second training program. They got me connected to an EDD rep in about 20 minutes when I had been trying for days on my own! The rep I spoke with gave me the exact requirements for applying for a second training program. You can see how their service works in this video: https://youtu.be/JmuwXR7HA10?si=TSwYbu_GOwYzt9km In my case, the EDD rep explained I needed to show how the second program would make me more employable than just the first program alone. I submitted all my paperwork and got approved for my second training about 10 days later. Definitely worth getting specific guidance directly from EDD since these situations vary.

Here's what you need to know about consecutive CTB training programs: 1. Submit DE 8736 form BEFORE your current training ends 2. You must demonstrate how the second program builds on the first 3. The second program must be for a high-demand occupation 4. You'll need to explain why the first program alone didn't lead to employment 5. Include documentation of your job search efforts showing you've been actively applying with your current skills In 2025, EDD is being more selective about approving consecutive trainings because of budget constraints. Your case (coding bootcamp + specialized front-end development) sounds potentially approvable since it shows clear skill progression. If there's a gap between approval and starting your new program, you'll temporarily return to regular UI requirements (job search, certification, etc.).

I dont think the EDD cares about us at all!!! They just want to cut people off benefits as fast as possible. My friend did 2 trainings and they approved it but then randomly audited her 3 months later and said she wasnt eligible for the 2nd one and now she owes back $4500!!!! The whole system is CORRUPT. Good luck getting any help from them.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I just submitted my DE 8736 form for the second training program yesterday. I made sure to include a detailed explanation of how the front-end specialization builds on my bootcamp skills and included job postings showing the demand for these combined skills. I also finally got through to an EDD representative (used that Claimyr service someone mentioned - totally worth it!) who confirmed I should continue certifying as normal during the transition period. She said approval typically takes 10-14 days and advised me to keep documenting my job search efforts in the meantime. Will update once I hear back about the approval! Fingers crossed...