FAQs

any questions?

We are thrilled that you’re considering joining Grace Institute, a journey of empowerment, growth, and opportunity. This FAQ is designed to answer your questions and help you feel confident about what we offer and how we support our participants. Whether you’re looking to build new skills, advance your career, or connect with a supportive community, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Dive in to learn more, and don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re excited to help you make the most of this opportunity!

Program Structure & Eligibility

Grace Institute offers a 12-week, tuition-free hybrid training program designed to prepare women for administrative careers in corporate, healthcare, and nonprofit settings. 

The program includes eight weeks of Core Training, covering foundational skills like Microsoft Office, business communication, and data entry, followed by four weeks of Specialized Training in your choice of Development & Fundraising, Project Management, Advanced Office Technology, Event Planning, and Administration in Healthcare. This blended training model ensures participants gain both standardized administrative skills and specialized industry knowledge to support their individual career goals. The program also provides job placement support to connect graduates with employers.

Training occurs Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm, with a weekly in-person session and four days in our virtual training room. This hybrid training model makes our program offerings accessible to those new to the workforce or returning after a break. 

Applicants must identify as women or non-binary, between the ages of 18-64 years old, legally eligible to work in the U.S. and hold a high school diploma or GED. Participants also need access to a laptop and internet (loaner support is available) and must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination (for those seeking employment within the healthcare sector).

Applicants with a Master’s degree are generally not admitted, as the program is designed for individuals without advanced degrees. Applicants with a U.S. bachelor’s degree are eligible to enroll. Those with an international diploma or degree may also qualify, provided their credentials meet the U.S. high school diploma equivalency requirements.

Full-time employment may be a barrier if work hours overlap with the program. If hours do not conflict, employment won’t affect eligibility. However, applicants earning above $15.00 per hour in current roles may not be recommended for admission.

Participants have two weeks from the start of Core Training to decide on a specialized training track. This selection period allows Talent Services to tailor career consultations and guidance to each participant’s career goals. Early selection ensures that support and resources align with the participant’s chosen field, optimizing preparation for their desired career path.

Admissions

To apply, potential participants must attend a virtual open house, complete an admissions assessment, and submit all required admissions documents. Documents include a copy of a High Diploma or its equivalency, photo identification, proof of authorization to work in the United States, and your most recent resume. Once these are completed, applicants will be scheduled for an interview.

The admissions interview also includes a Needs & Risk Assessment, which helps evaluate each applicant’s readiness and address potential barriers to employment.

Attendance, Support & Retention

Attendance and engagement is critical to your success, with participants allowed up to seven absences throughout the training period. During the first two weeks, if you miss up to three classes, the Recruitment and Retention (R&R) team will check in to offer support. However, exceeding three absences during this initial period may lead to a dismissal notice. The R&R team continues to support participants facing attendance challenges or other issues for the duration of the program.

For participants with technology challenges, especially in the first two weeks, the R&R team provides individualized support to troubleshoot and resolve issues, ensuring everyone has the necessary tech access for success.

Career Preparation & Post-Graduation Support

Graduates receive one year of job placement support and access to alumnae workshops and resources. Grace Institute connects graduates to a network of over 100 employer partners in healthcare, nonprofit, legal, and other industries.

Yes, applicants must agree to engage in a full-time job search after completing the program. Those who do not plan to seek full-time employment will not be considered for admission. Prospective participants are encouraged to resume the application process once they can commit to completing all phases of the Grace Institute program model.

Learn more

You can reach out to a member of our Recruitment & Retention team at admissions@graceinstitute.org or (212) 832-7605 for 1-on-1 guidance and support through the application process. Ready to apply?

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