Why Education and Training Assistance Matters
Education and workforce training are among the most powerful pathways out of poverty — but cost is a major barrier for millions of Americans. Fortunately, there is a wide range of free and low-cost programs funded by the federal government, states, and nonprofits to help people gain credentials, learn new skills, and find better jobs.
Federal Pell Grants
The Federal Pell Grant is the cornerstone of federal student aid for undergraduate students with financial need. Unlike loans, Pell Grants do not need to be repaid.
- Who qualifies: Undergraduate students who have not yet earned a bachelor's degree and demonstrate financial need based on the FAFSA
- Award amount: The maximum award changes annually; check studentaid.gov for the current amount
- How to apply: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov — it's free to apply
- Where it can be used: Accredited two-year and four-year colleges, universities, vocational schools, and some trade programs
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
The WIOA is a major federal law that funds job training and employment services across the country. Services are delivered through the national network of American Job Centers (also called One-Stop Career Centers).
WIOA-funded services include:
- Career counseling and assessments
- Resume writing and interview preparation
- Paid work experience and apprenticeships
- Occupational skills training (often through training vouchers called Individual Training Accounts)
- Support services such as childcare and transportation assistance during training
Find your nearest American Job Center at careeronestop.org or call 1-877-872-5627.
Adult Education and GED Programs
Adults who did not complete high school can pursue a High School Equivalency (HSE) credential — commonly the GED, HiSET, or TASC — often for free or at low cost through:
- Local community colleges
- Public library adult literacy programs
- Community Action Agencies
- State-funded adult education programs
Use the CareerOneStop adult education locator to find free programs near you.
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)
People with physical, mental, or intellectual disabilities may qualify for Vocational Rehabilitation services through their state VR agency. VR can fund education, job training, assistive technology, and job placement support to help people with disabilities enter or return to the workforce.
Comparing Key Education Assistance Options
| Program | Who It's For | What It Covers | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pell Grant | Low-income undergrad students | College tuition and fees | FAFSA at studentaid.gov |
| WIOA / American Job Centers | Job seekers, displaced workers | Job training, career services | Visit local American Job Center |
| Adult Education / GED | Adults without high school diploma | Free classes, test prep | Local community college or library |
| Vocational Rehabilitation | People with disabilities | Training, education, job placement | State VR agency |
| Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) | Workers displaced by trade | Retraining, income support | Through American Job Centers |
Community College and Trade School Options
Community colleges offer affordable two-year degrees and certificates in fields like healthcare, IT, skilled trades, and business. Many states have community college promise programs that make tuition free for qualifying students. Contact your local community college's financial aid office to learn what's available in your state.
Getting Started
The best first step is visiting your nearest American Job Center or your local community college's financial aid office. Both offer free advising to help you understand your options and create a plan — whether you're looking to earn your GED, learn a new trade, or complete a four-year degree.