Workforce Pell is a federal financial aid program that expands Pell Grant funding to eligible short-term workforce training programs. Designed to help students prepare for high-demand careers, Workforce Pell provides need-based financial assistance for approved programs that can be completed in as little as eight weeks. Eligible students may receive assistance to help cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, supplies and other required course materials.
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Eligibility
To be eligible for Workforce Pell funding, students must:
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and demonstrate financial need.
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen.
- Enroll in an approved Workforce Pell-eligible training program at Metropolitan Community College.
- Meet all federal Pell Grant eligibility requirements, including (but not limited to) maintaining satisfactory academic progress and meeting general federal student aid eligibility standards. Review the Federal Student Aid Eligibility Requirements.
- Not receive a traditional Pell Grant for another eligible program during the same enrollment period.
Workforce Pell-Eligible Programs
Workforce Pell funding is currently available for the following Metropolitan Community College workforce training programs:
- Certified Pharmacy Technician – Prepare for the nationally recognized Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential and train for careers in retail, hospital and community pharmacy settings.
- Phlebotomy Technician – Learn blood collection techniques, specimen handling and patient care while preparing for the NHA Certified Phlebotomy Technician certification exam.
- CDL-A (with E-Exemptions) – Prepare for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A) with hands-on training for local, regional and long-haul driving careers.
- CompTIA Tech+ – Build foundational IT skills and prepare for the CompTIA Tech+ certification for entry-level technology and IT support careers.
NOTE: Workforce Pell-eligible programs are subject to federal approval requirements and may change.
How Do I Apply?
Step 1: Review eligibility and select a program
Review the information on this page to determine your eligibility and select a Workforce Pell-eligible program that aligns with your career goals.
Sign up for a Workforce Information Session to begin the guided application process. During this step, you will receive assistance with completing the FAFSA, submitting required documentation, applying for admission to Metropolitan Community College and completing other required enrollment steps.
Register for a Workforce Information Session.
Step 3: Complete your application and prepare for class
Submit all required application materials, finalize your financial aid and enrollment steps and prepare to begin your Workforce Pell-eligible training program.
Contact Workforce@mccneb.edu with any questions.
Prepare Before You Start Your Application
Gathering the following items in advance can help streamline the application process:
- Social Security number (or Alien Registration number, if applicable)
- Government-issued photo ID
- FSA ID (or create one at studentaid.gov)
- Federal income tax return (if required)
- Records of untaxed income, if applicable
- Information about cash, savings and investments, if applicable
- MCC student ID (if already enrolled)
- List of your selected Workforce Pell-eligible program(s)
The FAFSA uses federal tax data whenever available, so some applicants may not need to manually enter financial information. MCC staff will provide guidance during your Workforce Information Session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Workforce Pell?
A. Workforce Pell is a federal financial aid program that expands Pell Grant eligibility to approved short-term workforce training programs. It helps eligible students access funding to prepare for high-demand careers in less time than traditional degree programs.
Q. How do I apply for Workforce Pell funding?
A. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), select an eligible program and attend a Workforce Information Session to begin the application process.
Q. Do I need to complete the FAFSA?
A. Yes. Completing the FAFSA is required to determine eligibility for Workforce Pell funding.
Q. Which programs are eligible for Workforce Pell funding?
A. Eligible programs currently include:
- Certified Pharmacy Technician
- Phlebotomy Technician
- CDL-A Truck Driving (with E-Exemptions)
- CompTIA Tech+
Eligible programs are subject to federal approval requirements and may change.
Q. Can I receive Workforce Pell funding and a traditional Pell Grant at the same time?
A. No. Students may not receive a Workforce Pell Grant and a traditional Pell Grant during the same enrollment period.
Q. How much funding can I receive?
A. Award amounts vary based on financial need, program length and federal eligibility criteria. Not all students will qualify for the maximum award.
Q. Who is eligible for Workforce Pell funding?
A. Students must meet federal Pell Grant eligibility requirements, complete the FAFSA and enroll in an approved Workforce Pell-eligible program.
Q. Where can I get help if I have questions?
A. Contact Metropolitan Community College Workforce Education or Financial Aid staff for assistance with eligibility, FAFSA completion and the application process.