Workforce Pell, also referred to as Short-Term Pell, was established under H.R. 1 in 2025 to allow students to use Pell Grants for short-term postsecondary programs that lead to industry-recognized credentials. Traditionally, Pell Grants were limited to longer academic programs, leaving many short-term workforce programs ineligible. Workforce Pell extends Pell eligibility to high-quality short-term programs that meet specific state and federal standards. Eligible programs must run between 150 and 599 clock hours, last at least 8 weeks but fewer than 15 weeks, lead to a recognized credential, and connect to an academic pathway. Typical programs that may become eligible include healthcare (LNA, Medical Assistant), advanced manufacturing, welding, construction trades and more. Programs must meet quality standards established by state and federal governments, and student eligibility is determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process.
Work is underway in New Hampshire to certify programs that will be eligible for Workforce Pell for students who qualify. It is anticipated that these programs will be ready to accept students utilizing Workforce Pell grants in early 2027.
Short-Term Training. In-Demand Skills. Find Your Future.
Workforce Pell expands access to federal Pell Grant financial aid for eligible students enrolled in high-quality, short-term training programs that lead to recognized credentials and prepare individuals for high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand careers.
For the first time, eligible students can use Pell Grant funding for certain short-term workforce training programs. Workforce Pell creates new opportunities for New Hampshire residents to gain the skills and credentials they need to enter a new career, advance in their current career, or meet the changing needs of New Hampshire employers.
Find the Path That’s Right for You
Looking for Training?
Contact your college or training institution to learn which programs may be eligible for Workforce Pell funding and whether you qualify for financial assistance. Your institution can provide information about eligible programs, enrollment, financial aid, and how to get started.
Training Provider?
Learn about New Hampshire's Workforce Pell program approval process, eligibility requirements, and how to submit a program for consideration by clicking here.
What is Workforce Pell?
Workforce Pell is a new expansion of the federal Pell Grant program that makes financial aid available for eligible students participating in qualifying short-term workforce training programs. These programs are designed to provide focused, career-connected education that leads to recognized credentials and prepares individuals for employment in high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand occupations.
Workforce Pell is designed to help more people access the training they need to enter the workforce quickly while strengthening New Hampshire's talent pipeline and helping employers find the skilled workers they need.
Impact
New Hampshire's economy depends on a skilled workforce. Workforce Pell provides another tool to help individuals gain valuable skills and credentials while helping connect education and training opportunities to the needs of New Hampshire employers and industry.
Through Workforce Pell, New Hampshire can support shorter, career-focused training pathways that lead to meaningful employment and provide opportunities for continued education and career advancement.
How Does Workforce Pell Work?
Eligible students must meet federal Pell Grant eligibility requirements and enroll in an approved Workforce Pell program. Participating training providers are responsible for determining student eligibility and administering federal financial aid.
Programs must meet federal requirements and receive the necessary state and federal approvals before students can receive Workforce Pell funding.
Learn more about:
- Student eligibility
- Approved Workforce Pell programs
- Program eligibility requirements
- New Hampshire's approval process
- Financial aid and FAFSA
- Resources for training providers
For Students and Workers
Workforce Pell may provide financial assistance for eligible short-term training that prepares you for an in-demand career. If you're considering a career change, looking to gain new skills, or preparing to enter the workforce, Workforce Pell may provide a new pathway to training without requiring you to commit to a traditional two- or four-year degree program. Please contact an eligible institution today!
Explore approved Workforce Pell programs and learn how to get started.
For Training Providers
New Hampshire is committed to ensuring Workforce Pell supports high-quality training that is aligned with the needs of employers and the state's economy.
Eligible institutions and training providers can learn more about New Hampshire's Workforce Pell requirements, application process, program approval, and federal requirements.
Learn more about becoming an approved Workforce Pell training provider.
Building New Hampshire's Workforce
Workforce Pell represents an important opportunity to strengthen the connection between education, training, and employment. New Hampshire's approach is focused on ensuring that Workforce Pell programs provide meaningful opportunities for individuals while responding to the workforce needs of businesses and industries across the state.
This page will be updated as New Hampshire's Workforce Pell policies, approved programs, and resources become available.