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Workforce Ready Grant

Next Level Jobs of Indiana

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Next Level Jobs Workforce Ready Grant pays the tuition and mandatory fees for eligible high-value certificate programs at Ivy Tech Community College, Vincennes University, Indiana Institute of Technology, or other approved providers. The grant is available for two (2) years and covers up to the number of credits required by the qualifying program. The grant does not cover courses that do not directly apply to the student's certificate program, and program-specific fees and equipment are not covered.

The Workforce Ready Grant is a last-dollar grant, so the award amount may be reduced upon applying the Federal Pell Grant to a student's financial aid package. Students should inquire about their eligible amount with their college's financial aid office.

First-time dependent students (based on the FAFSA dependency status) are not eligible for the Workforce Ready Grant for the 2026-2027 academic year. Only independent students and dependent students who are continuing their program during the 2026-2027 academic year are eligible. 

 

QUALIFYING PROGRAMS

The qualifying high-value certificate programs were selected based on employer demand, wages, job placements and program completion rate. These programs are aligned with Indiana’s highest demand sectors:

  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Building & Construction
  • Health Sciences
  • IT & Business Services
  • Transportation & Logistics

Institutions of higher education, employers and business interested in serving as a Next Level Jobs training provider can learn how to apply here.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

First-time dependent students (based on the FAFSA dependency status) are not eligible for the Workforce Ready Grant for the 2026-2027 academic year. Only independent students and dependent students who are continuing their program during the 2026-2027 academic year are eligible. 

To qualify for the grant, students must:

  • Be an Indiana resident and U.S. citizen or (eligible non-citizen)
  • Have a high school diploma (or equivalent) but less than a college degree
  • Enroll in a qualifying program at an eligible training provider
  • File the FAFSA**
  • Enroll full-time (typically four courses) if you are a Dependent Student**
    • Must have used the Workforce Ready Grant during the 2025-2026 academic year and must continue certification program during the 2026-2027 academic year. 
  • Enroll at least half-time (typically two courses) if you are an Independent Student**
  • Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress**
  • Meet any other minimum criteria established by the Commission

HOW TO APPLY

  • Visit the NextLevelJobs.org to connect with an eligible training provider
  • Submit a complete and corrected FAFSA (credit-bearing programs)
    • Applicants do not need to meet the April 15th deadline for state financial aid
    • The Workforce Ready Grant is not limited by family income