Workforce Pell: Preliminary Information

02/18/2026

With the passage of Workforce Pell as part of Public Law 119-21 last year, we know that many members of the financial aid community are awaiting details on how the program expansion will be implemented in Illinois. Preliminary information about the process is below, including a link to a form where you can submit questions or comments.

Workforce Pell 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, Illinois has begun coordination across state agencies and partners to prepare for implementation. Through an interagency working group that includes the Governor’s Office, representatives from the Board of Higher Education, Community College Board, Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Department of Employment Security, the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, and the 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. Illinois' primary goal is to maximize access to high-quality programs while maintaining consumer protection. The interagency team will soon engage the public and various stakeholders to elevate implementation opportunities and seek solutions to challenges as the state prepares to respond once federal requirements are finalized. Please be on the lookout for those opportunities.

Please direct all feedback or questions through this form. Thank you!

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If you have any questions, please contact School Services by sending an email to [email protected] or calling 866.247.2172.