Workforce Pell
For inquiries, email nvworkforcepell@detr.nv.gov.
Introduction
In July 2025, Congress enacted legislation that included Workforce Pell which extends federal Pell Grant eligibility to students enrolled in short-term, career-focused training programs that meet established federal defined quality requirements and lead to industry-recognized credentials.
Workforce Pell provides financial aid for short‑term, high‑quality training programs that lead directly to in‑demand jobs. By expanding Pell Grant eligibility beyond traditional college degrees, Workforce Pell helps adults, career changers, and job seekers access fast, affordable pathways to good‑paying careers and strengthens Nevada’s workforce.
In Nevada, Workforce Pell supports OWINN’s mission to strengthen the state’s talent pipeline by expanding access to short‑term training in high‑demand sectors. This includes priority industries such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare and information technology. By connecting learners to affordable pathways, Workforce Pell helps meet employer needs while creating more opportunities for Nevadans to advance in resilient, high‑growth careers.
Workforce Pell is effective on July 1, 2026.
Program Eligibility
Workforce Pell eligibility framework has been codified by federal legislation (HR1) and regulation by the US Department of Education. All Programs must be offered by accredited, Title IV‑eligible providers and demonstrate a positive return on investment. Programs must have operated in their current form for at least one year before applying and meet all federal and state requirements. In Nevada institutions must have a data sharing agreement in place with the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation at least 12 months prior to submitting their program to OWINN for approval.
Workforce Pell is not a new or separate source of federal funding. Awards are drawn from the existing Federal Pell Grant program, which means eligible students may receive either Workforce Pell or traditional Pell in a given term, but cannot receive both general Pell Grant and Workforce Pell Grant at the same time. To ensure funding supports programs aligned with workforce needs, certain programs and conditions are excluded including remedial, ESL, correspondence, study abroad courses and programs offered by unaccredited institutions.
Institution Application Process
The Workforce Pell application process will be administered in two distinct phases. Phase 1 will begin on July 1, 2026, and will be limited to institutions within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE). Phase 2 will subsequently expand eligibility to all non‑credit training programs. Implementing a phased approach ensures that the initial review period is used to evaluate, refine, and strengthen application procedures prior to broader statewide implementation.
All Workforce Pell applications and supporting documentation must be submitted via email to nvworkforcepell@detr.nv.gov.
Approval of Workforce Pell programs occurs through three primary levels of oversight:
- The college or training provider must be a Title IV-eligible institution and fall within the institution’s accredited offerings.
- OWINN, on behalf of the Governor, will ensure alignment with labor market needs and recognized credential requirements. This also includes approval through the Governor’s Workforce Development Board before the Governor’s final approval.
- After the state’s approval, the final authority rests with the U.S. Department of Education.
FAQs
Who is eligible to receive the grant?
Workforce Pell Grants are designed to help students pay for short-term, high-demand job training programs. To be eligible, you must demonstrate financial need on your FAFSA and enroll in an accredited, state-approved workforce program that lasts between 8 and 15 weeks (150–599 clock hours).
Click the List of Eligible Programs to see which programs are approved.
When does this start?
The program officially launches on July 1, 2026.
Where can I view the federal law introducing the grant and additional resources?
H.R. 1 as signed into law on 7/4/2025. Section 83002: Workforce Pell Grants (pp. 280-283).
Workforce Pell Policy – Coming soon!
U.S. Department of Education Issues Final Rule to Create New Workforce Pell Grant Program