Illinois Pell for Workforce Implementation

Workforce Pell is an 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. Effective July 1, 2026, programs must meet criteria and specific performance outcomes for Governor and Secretary of Education approval. Illinois’ goal for Workforce Pell implementation is to maximize student access to high-quality short-term workforce programs and expanded financial aid, while maintaining consumer protections. Thus, Illinois had added state-specific requirements for institutions and its programs to become eligible in order to fully realize this goal.

The development of this work was coordinated through an Interagency Steering Committee with representatives from the following education and workforce agencies, under the leadership of the Governor’s Office:

• 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 Illinois Workforce Program Approval Process is accepting applications July 15- August 31, 2026.

Fill out the application here.

The Illinois Workforce Pell Program Approval Manual provides guidance to eligible Illinois institutions of higher education on implementing the Workforce Pell program beginning in Academic Year 2026–27. Aligned with federal regulations, the manual establishes the requirements for the development, approval, and oversight of short-term workforce programs eligible for Pell Grant funding.

Its purpose is to help institutions effectively navigate all phases of participation—from program design and application through approval, compliance, and ongoing performance accountability—while ensuring alignment with state workforce priorities and federal requirements.

Manual and Appendices:

Illinois Workforce Pell Program Approval Manual (PDF)

Appendix A: Eligible Occupations List (Excel)

Appendix B: Application Elements (PDF)

Appendix C: Supplemental Student-Level Data Template (Excel)

Appendix D: Institutional Readiness Checklist (PDF)

Other Resources:

Community College CIP Enrollment Totals for Eligible Occupations, CIP and FY (Excel)

Employer Validation Letter Template- Optional to the Use the Template (Word)

Webinar: Walk-through of Illinois Workforce Pell Application
July 21, 2026 from 1pm to 2pm

Members of the Illinois team will provide an overview of the state Workforce Pell application during a webinar on Tuesday, July 21 from 1:00 – 2:00 pm. Presenters will demonstrate the application, discuss its requirements, describe the processes for data collection and program approval, and share information on upcoming opportunities for additional technical assistance.

Register for the webinar by going to this link.

A recording will also be made available for those unable to participate.