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Pell Grants will cover short-term workforce training programs

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The sign outside the N.C. Community College System building. Hannah McClellan/EdNC

New federal legislation will allow students in short-term workforce training programs at North Carolina’s 58 community colleges or other eligible institutions to use Pell Grants for tuition, fees, and other expenses, according to a press release from the N.C. Community College System.

Before the legislation, Pell Grants could only cover the costs for curriculum-based programs lasting 15 weeks or more. The new Workforce Pell Grant provisions were part of the Consolidated Appropriations and Workforce Investment Act passed in June, according to the press release.

“North Carolina’s community colleges have been preparing for this moment—modernizing programs, forming employer partnerships, and positioning students for success in today’s economy,” said Dr. Jeff Cox, President of the North Carolina Community College System. “This landmark expansion of Pell eligibility helps more North Carolinians quickly gain skills, earn credentials, and connect to opportunity. It’s a win for students, employers, and communities across our state.” 

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The press release states that the funds can be used on “short-term, high-quality training programs — some as short as eight weeks depending on instructional hours and program design” beginning in July 2026.

Still, students may be able to access available funding right now through the state’s Short-Term Workforce Development Grant Program. The N.C. Community College System encourages students interested in these programs to contact their local community college to apply for these funds.

U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), who introduced the legislation earlier this year, said these programs allow students to earn credentials needed to access high-quality, family-sustaining jobs in just eight weeks, according to the press release.

“Investing in our workforce is one of the most powerful ways to secure long-term economic growth in North Carolina and beyond,” said Budd.  

The community college system said in its press release that it is finalizing program eligibility, student requirements, application processes, and operational updates to ensure students can enroll in these programs by the 2026 Fall semester.