(1) The department will consider the following factors when reviewing your application for training benefits:

(a) Whether you have a current benefit year as required by RCW 50.22.010(9);

(b) Your plan for completion of the training;

(c) For each of the following categories of workers:

(i) Dislocated workers under RCW 50.22.155 (2)(a)(i): Whether suitable employment is available in the labor market in which you currently reside and whether the training is likely to enhance your marketable skills and earning power, based on an assessment of what your earning power would be if training were not provided. If you were originally determined to be a dislocated worker, but moved from the area where your skills were declining to an area where your skills are in demand, you are not eligible for training benefits.

(ii) Low income workers under RCW 50.22.155 (2)(a)(ii)(A): Whether vocational training is likely to enhance your earning potential. This consists of training for a career in a high demand occupation that will help you obtain and maintain stable, quality employment.

(iii) Military veterans, current members of the Washington National Guard, and disabled individuals under RCW 50.22.155 (2)(a)(ii)(B), (C), and (D): Whether training is needed to assist you in finding suitable work in your labor market.

(d) Whether the training relates to a high demand occupation;

(e) Whether the training is likely to enhance your marketable skills and earning power, based on an assessment of what your employment prospects would be if training were not approved; and

(f) Whether the educational institution and training program meet the performance criteria established by the workforce training and education coordinating board.

(2) Academic training will not be approved during the first two years of a degree program. Academic training may be approved during subsequent academic years if it meets the criteria of subsection (1) and it meets specific requirements for certification, licensing, or for specific skills necessary for the occupation.

(3) The department may approve educational training that has been identified as necessary by the training facility as a prerequisite to a vocational training program that meets the criteria in subsection (1) of this section.