Minnesota Workforce Pell

Workforce Pell expands the traditional federal Pell Grant program to include short‑term training programs that lead directly to jobs employers are hiring for.

With Workforce Pell, you can receive aid for programs that are between 150-599 clock hours, 4-15 semester or trimester hours, or 6-23 quarter hours, and 8–14 weeks long.

For more information, the U.S. Department of Education also released a fact sheet on Workforce Pell. 

You may be eligible if you:

• Meet standard Pell Grant eligibility requirements
• Enroll in an approved short‑term program
• Attend a participating college or training provider

Note: You cannot receive a regular Pell Grant and a Workforce Pell Grant at the same time.

Programs must show strong job placement outcomes and meet Minnesota’s workforce needs.

Examples include:

• Healthcare
• Skilled trades
• Information technology
• Manufacturing
• Transportation and logistics
• Emergency services
• Other high‑demand fields across the state

Workforce Pell uses the same formula as traditional Pell Grants. Your award amount depends on:

• Your financial need
• The cost of your program
• Your enrollment level

It is important to note that Workforce Pell counts toward your lifetime Pell Grant limit, so it’s helpful to plan how you want to use your eligibility.

To apply for Minnesota Workforce Pell:

1. Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), FAFSA® Application | Federal Student Aid
2. List the school you plan to attend.
3. After your FAFSA is processed, your school will determine your Workforce Pell eligibility once the program is approved.