Illinois Pell for Workforce Implementation

Workforce Pell, authorized through H.R. 1, is an upcoming expansion of the federal Pell Grant program that would allow eligible students to use Pell funding for high-quality, short-term workforce programs aligned with in-demand occupations.

In anticipation of this expansion, effective July 1, 2026, Illinois is coordinating across state agencies and partners to prepare for implementation. Through an Interagency Steering Committee that includes the Governor’s Office, representatives from:

• Board of Higher Education
• Community College Board
• Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
• Department of Employment Security
• Illinois Student Assistance Commission
• Illinois Workforce Innovation Board

The state is reviewing federal guidance, assessing program eligibility and approval processes, and identifying operational and data considerations to ensure high-quality implementation. With generous support from the Joyce Foundation, Illinois is receiving policy support from Education Strategy Group.

Illinois’ primary goal is to maximize access to high-quality programs while maintaining consumer protection.

The Illinois Interagency Workforce Pell Team is pleased to announce a 10-day public comment period (June 2-June 11, 2026) for the Illinois Workforce Pell Program Approval Manual. The manual outlines the proposed policies, approval process, and implementation framework that will guide Workforce Pell program approval in Illinois.

Illinois Workforce Pell Program Approval Manual (PDF)

Appendix A: Eligible Occupations List (Excel)

Appendix B: Workforce Pell Program Application Elements (PDF)

Provide public comments using this form (Microsoft Forms)

The public comment period provides stakeholders with an opportunity to review the proposed framework and offer feedback before the policies and procedures are finalized. This process is intended to promote transparency, collaboration, and statewide alignment while ensuring that Illinois’ Workforce Pell implementation reflects the perspectives of education, workforce, employer, and community partners.

The Illinois Interagency Workforce Pell Steering Committee held a public webinar on June 2.

• Webinar information
  • Zoom recording link
  • Slide deck (PDF)