Nebraska Workforce Pell
Overview
The Nebraska Workforce Pell Grant Program makes Pell Grant funding available for short-term training programs for the first time. Eligible programs must run 8 or more weeks, but less than 15 weeks and are designed to help Nebraskans quickly gain skills for high-wage jobs in high-demand fields. The program is effective July 1, 2026, under the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.
To be eligible, programs must be offered by an accredited college or institution and go through a two-step approval process — first by the Nebraska Department of Labor on behalf of the Governor, then by the U.S. Department of Education. Approved programs are held to clear performance standards: at least 70% of students must complete the program, at least 70% must be employed afterward, and tuition must not exceed the earnings benefit graduates receive from completing the program.
Questions? Contact us at ndol.workforcepell@nebraska.gov
How to Apply
To apply for a Workforce Pell Grant Program, institutions must complete the application.
Policies
The following policies govern the Nebraska Workforce Pell Grant Program. Institutions are encouraged to review all applicable policies before applying.
Program Eligibility and Application Procedures Occupation and Program Eligibility 2026-2027 Initial Eligible Occupation and Program List Tribal Policy Appeal Policy Monitoring and Compliance