CELINA, Texas — Texas has extended the application period for the new federal Workforce Pell Grant, state officials announced July 24, allowing more colleges and technical schools additional time to submit short-term training programs for approval.
The grant provides federal tuition assistance toward shorter credential coursework. Eligible programs prepare students for jobs in areas including building trades, medical services, computing and modern factory work. State officials said the longer window is intended to broaden the range of institutions and regions able to participate.
> "The Workforce Pell Grant marks a historic expansion of opportunity for Texans," said Governor Greg Abbott.
The program was created under the Working Families Tax Cuts Act of 2025 and is aimed at working adults, new graduates and working adults pursuing training tied to fields where employers are hiring. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is rolling out the program in coordination with two partner agencies, the Texas Workforce Commission and the Texas Workforce Investment Council, and applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis. Approved programs must meet federal performance standards, including a 70 percent completion and job placement rate, and schools can begin offering the aid once the U.S. Department of Education grants final approval.