Scholarships, apprenticeships and free or low-cost training, starting in New England and adding states one by one, with a source link and last-checked date on every listing.
Confirm with the provider before you apply. Never pay to apply for a scholarship. Confirm deadlines, eligibility and costs with the school or program.
Scholarships, apprenticeships and free training: 18 states researched so far
Find real programs for students and career changers: free-college programs, apprenticeship doors, free or low-cost trade training, and scholarships with dates. We started with New England and add other states one at a time from official sources. Researched so far: Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, Rhode Island, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington, plus national programs (federal aid, apprenticeship.gov, WIOA) under National. States not listed are not yet researched. Each listing links to its source and shows when it was last verified.
Confirm before you act. Rules and dates change. Check the provider's page, and never pay a fee to apply for a scholarship. How to spot scams. New to this? Start here.
Associated Builders and Contractors of Massachusetts
Awards of $500 to $2,500 (non-renewable) for students in a formal construction training program from a licensed provider, a state- or federally-approved construction apprenticeship, or a construction bachelor's program. Preference to Massachusetts applicants. Awards are based on financial need, academics, activities and work experience.
Who it is for (as stated)
Students in construction training, approved construction apprenticeships or construction degrees; at least one full year remaining after the deadline (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
$500-$2,500 per award (as stated)
Deadline or timing
2026 deadline was May 29, 2026 (apprenticeship version for the Gould Construction Institute, and the collegiate version). Check for the 2027 cycle.
State guide to finding a registered apprenticeship; the state's 'Upcoming Apprentice Recruitments' page posts recruitment notices (recent items include union Local recruitments, sprinkler fitter organizations, early-childhood teacher apprenticeships, and culinary and housekeeping pre-apprenticeships). The page itself says it may not show every opportunity and suggests working with your local MassHire Career Center.
Who it is for (as stated)
Varies by program (Massachusetts law generally requires apprentices to be 16 or older).
Cost or award (as stated)
Apprenticeships are paid jobs with training (as described by the state).
Deadline or timing
Each recruitment sets its own dates; see the state's list.
Free 18-week, 300-hour welding program with hands-on practice, grant-funded through a partnership with Greater New Bedford Vocational Technical High School and area welding companies and funded by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.
Who it is for (as stated)
18 or older; Massachusetts resident; U.S. high school diploma or equivalency; MA driver's license or photo ID; authorized to work in the U.S.; pass CORI/SORI background check; reliable transportation; ready to work after completion (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Free (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Application for MA residents: June 1 to December 31, 2026 (as shown on the page).
Free pre-apprenticeship with 200+ hours of career-readiness and hands-on skills training to prepare you to compete for union apprenticeship openings. The first step is an information session. The page notes it is free to participants but not free to provide, so it looks for committed applicants.
Who it is for (as stated)
At least 18; resident of Suffolk, Norfolk, Middlesex or Essex County; high school diploma or equivalency; unemployed or under-employed; authorized to work in the U.S.; licensed driver; drug-free; proficient in English; no prior affiliation with a Massachusetts trades union (all as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Free to participants (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Information sessions held regularly through the year; sign up on the program page.
Emerge Career, listed by MassHire Central Career Centers (Worcester)
MassHire Central lists Emerge Career training in HVAC, diesel technician and CDL at no cost; the HVAC page says Emerge covers tuition, exam and permit fees, required physicals and transportation support, plus coaching and job placement.
Who it is for (as stated)
HVAC page: you or an immediate family member is or was justice-involved, and you live in Massachusetts. Check the diesel and CDL pages for their own rules.
Massachusetts public community colleges / Mass.gov
Covers tuition and fees at any of Massachusetts' 15 public community colleges for eligible students of any age, in approved certificate or associate programs (the Mass.gov page says EMT and paramedic initial-training courses are also eligible). Students may qualify for an allowance of up to $1,200 a year for books and supplies depending on income, and some for a second allowance.
Who it is for (as stated)
Massachusetts residents (one year) or High School Completers; no bachelor's degree; at least 6 credits a semester in an approved program; FAFSA (or MASFA if not FAFSA-eligible); not in default on student loans.
Cost or award (as stated)
Tuition and fees covered for eligible students (as stated)
Deadline or timing
No single state deadline: Mass.gov says awards are made by each college at enrollment through the year. Each college sets its own admission deadlines (for example, MassBay's page lists Aug 28, 2026 for Fall 2026 and says it is accepting Spring, Summer and Fall 2027 applications).
Catalog of no-cost training pending eligibility. Items listed when we read it included a 220-hour diesel technician course, a 10-week wastewater treatment operator course, a 5-week home energy rating field inspector mentorship, an 8-week biomanufacturing technician pathway, Mass Save Clean Energy Pathways, Worcester Building Pathways, and CDL permit training.
Who it is for (as stated)
Varies by program; the page says programs are free pending eligibility requirements.
Massachusetts Building and Construction Trades Council (MBTU)
Directory of union building-trades apprenticeships. The page says the trades and contractor partners run more than 40 joint apprenticeship training centers in Massachusetts, apprentices do not pay for training, and training runs two to five years depending on trade. It also lists pre-apprenticeship programs (Building Pathways in greater Boston and Worcester-Fitchburg, Building Pathways South, and Community Works in western Massachusetts).
For Maine residents in vocational or technical school or a community college trade program (mechanics, welding, electrician certification, plumbing and others), with a preference for U.S. veterans. Handled through the Adult Learner Scholarship application.
Who it is for (as stated)
Maine residents; veterans preferred (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Not stated
Deadline or timing
Same application and dates as the MaineCF Adult Learner Scholarship.
Interactive map and searchable table of registered apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships in Maine. You apply through the employer; openings also appear on Maine JobLink with the Apprenticeship filter. The pre-apprenticeship path is for students and adults age 16 or older and, per the state, can carry up to 1,000 hours of on-the-job experience into a registered apprenticeship.
Who it is for (as stated)
At least 16; committed to classroom and on-the-job learning (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Paid jobs with training (as described)
Deadline or timing
Each employer sets its own dates.
Source:https://www.maine.gov/labor/node/6/ Last verified: . Read on the program's own or a government/college page. Confirm with the provider before applying.
Renewable support for adult learners in Maine pursuing trade training, certification or licensure (not four-year degrees). Funds may be used for tools, supplies and texts after tuition is paid. Applied for through the Adult Learner Scholarship application.
Who it is for (as stated)
Maine adult learners in trade training (see the Adult Learner Scholarship eligibility).
Cost or award (as stated)
Not stated
Deadline or timing
Same application and dates as the MaineCF Adult Learner Scholarship.
For nontraditional Maine students: adults over 25, full-time workers, parents, financially independent students, people without a standard diploma, or delayed enrollees (meet one). Short-term credential award (programs under one semester ending in a certificate) has a rolling deadline and most awards of $200 to $1,200; long-term award (one- or two-year certificates or degrees) mostly $1,000 to $2,500 per semester. Several named funds apply through the same application, including trades-focused funds.
Who it is for (as stated)
Maine resident who meets one nontraditional criterion; programs must be accredited by a nationally recognized agency (unless self-directed); FAFSA if eligible. Applications are pre-screened and competitive (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Short-term: most $200-$1,200. Long-term: most $1,000-$2,500 per semester (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Long-term award: deadlines June 15 and November 15 each year (next: Nov 15). Short-term award: rolling; the page (dated Aug 21, 2026) warns decisions may take three-plus weeks and that programs that start before a decision are not funded.
Note: The November date is the next recurring date; the page does not print the year.
Last-dollar scholarship that covers tuition at Maine's seven community colleges for recent high school (or HiSET/GED) graduates. No separate scholarship application: you are considered when you apply to a Maine community college. Short certificate programs in trades such as heating or plumbing count if they are one-year credentials.
Who it is for (as stated)
High school diploma or equivalent from 2024 or later; Maine resident for a full year before admission and while enrolled; degree or one-year credential program; accept federal and state grants first. No income or age limit (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
100% of tuition for 2026 graduates and later, after federal and state grants (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Enroll no later than Summer 2027 (2024 graduates), Summer 2028 (2025 graduates), Summer 2029 (2026 graduates), per MCCS.
Source:https://www.mccs.me.edu/free-college/ Last verified: . Read on the program's own or a government/college page. Confirm with the provider before applying.
Trade scholarships of up to $10,000 per year for graduating seniors of four western Maine high schools (Telstar, Mountain Valley, Gould Academy, Buckfield). Listed as an example of how local the best-fit awards can be.
Who it is for (as stated)
Graduating seniors from Telstar High School, Mountain Valley High School, Gould Academy or Buckfield Jr.-Sr. High School (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Up to $10,000 per year (as stated)
Deadline or timing
2026 application closed Monday, May 11 (10 PM). Watch for the 2027 window, which opened in April this year.
Posts current New Hampshire registered apprenticeship openings from employers and sponsors; when we read it these included electrician (IBEW Local 490), welder/fitter, HVAC, carpenter, precision quality inspector, and others. The state workforce agency says you generally must be 16, have a high school diploma or GED, be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and be able to do the physical tasks.
Who it is for (as stated)
Generally 16+, diploma or GED, citizen or permanent resident (per NHES); each employer sets its own requirements.
Scholarship for students of any age in short-term vocational or technical study such as automotive, plumbing, heating, construction, advanced manufacturing, computer repair or licensed nursing assistant. One online application matches you to funds you qualify for. Notification within six weeks of submission.
Who it is for (as stated)
New Hampshire students of any age in short-term vocational/technical programs; the committee prefers traditional trade sectors and applicants who have had little other training opportunity. Citizenship is not considered (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Award amount not stated for this program on the page
Deadline or timing
Open enrollment through Friday, December 11, 2026, 5:00 pm ET.
NH Employment Security (NHES) via Nashua Community College's Workforce Solutions page
Nashua Community College's page says WIOA (for dislocated workers and other eligible adults) and WorkNowNH (for people on Medicaid or Granite Advantage) help students pay for approved programs. For WorkNowNH it lists up to $5,000 in tuition, $500 for books, fees and supplies, travel reimbursement and child-care registration help.
Who it is for (as stated)
WIOA: laid off, unemployed, public-benefit recipients or below a self-sufficiency income guideline (see the page). WorkNowNH: enrolled in Granite Advantage or traditional Medicaid.
Cost or award (as stated)
Varies; benefit amounts as listed by the college (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Ongoing; talk to a Career Navigator before enrolling. Some funding requires enrollment in the state program before classes start (a Reddit commenter in r/skilledtrades said the same; confirm with the program).
Tuition-free course on workplace skills (resume, interviews, communication, teamwork) with a WorkReadyNH certificate and the National Career Readiness Certificate. It is a soft-skills program, not trade training, but it is a free first step for job seekers.
Who it is for (as stated)
New Hampshire residents age 16 or older; class taught in English.
Cost or award (as stated)
Tuition free (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Ongoing; class schedules are posted by the colleges.
Union electrical apprenticeship. The page says it requires 8,000 on-the-job hours and four years of evening classes (144 hours a year), accepts employment applications year-round, and accepts apprenticeship applications from June 15 to August 1 each year.
Who it is for (as stated)
See the local's application page.
Cost or award (as stated)
Paid on-the-job training; see the page for details
Deadline or timing
Annual application window: June 15 to August 1 (2026 window has passed; next expected from June 15, 2027 as stated each year).
Need-based Vermont grant for non-degree or non-matriculated courses and programs at VSAC-approved schools or businesses that help you get or improve a job. Up to 2 courses per term, 2 terms per year, 6 terms total. The amount depends on financial need and the cost of the course, up to a yearly maximum.
Who it is for (as stated)
Vermont resident for one year before class starts; U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen (others use a pathway application); financial need; high school diploma/GED (or not in traditional high school for 3 months); approved non-degree program.
Cost or award (as stated)
Grant amount depends on need and course cost (as stated)
Deadline or timing
For classes starting Jul 1, 2026 to Jun 30, 2027, while funding lasts (first-come, first-served per VSAC). VSAC's FAQ says you can still apply for a course you already finished if it began in the funded year.
State steps for starting an apprenticeship: pick a trade, read the Apprenticeship Exploration Guides (carpenter, electrician, plumber and others), and contact employers. Vermont says you do not apply to the state; because an apprenticeship is a job, you have to be hired. Use the Apprentice Job Finder, the list of participating employers, or the VermontJobLink board.
Adults 18+ can seek WIOA-funded training through Vermont Job Centers. Eligibility described by the state includes unemployment, recent SNAP or TANF receipt, low income or a basic-skills deficiency, with priority to public-assistance recipients, low-income people and the basic-skills deficient. You make a training plan and choose a program on the state's Eligible Training Provider List.
Who it is for (as stated)
Adults 18+ meeting WIOA rules (see the state page).
Free or low-cost training for people 16+ who are legally authorized to work in the U.S. and are unemployed or underemployed (part-time, temporary, unstable and career-change workers may qualify). You register, complete a skills inventory within seven days, then work with a career coach.
Who it is for (as stated)
16+; authorized to work; unemployed or underemployed (as stated).
State office supporting paid registered apprenticeships that combine on-the-job work and classroom instruction, with a portable credential at completion.
Covers the gap between your federal and state grants and tuition plus mandatory fees at CT State Community College. First-come, first-served funding, not income-based, and not available for summer term. Applies to the first 72 earned credit hours.
Who it is for (as stated)
Connecticut resident; high school graduate (GED and homeschool count); first attended college in Fall 2020 or later; 6+ credits a semester in a degree or credit-bearing certificate; FAFSA.
Cost or award (as stated)
Tuition and mandatory fees gap covered while funds last (as stated)
Deadline or timing
CT's student aid page says apply by July 15 for priority; later applicants can still apply, especially for spring, while funds last.
Source:https://ctstate.edu/free-tuition Last verified: . Read on the program's own or a government/college page. Confirm with the provider before applying.
State page for finding a Rhode Island apprenticeship: apply directly to the employer or program sponsor. The state describes apprenticeships as paid earn-and-learn programs.
Two free classes for Rhode Island residents who previously attended CCRI in a certificate or associate program, have no associate or bachelor's degree, and have not attended any college in the previous two semesters. Last-dollar, first-come, first-served; does not cover books.
Who it is for (as stated)
RI resident; previously enrolled at CCRI in a certificate/associate program; no associate or bachelor's degree; no college for the prior two semesters; complete 2026-27 FAFSA.
Cost or award (as stated)
Two classes free (as stated)
Deadline or timing
The page says the scholarship is currently offered for the Fall 2026 semester; check CCRI for later terms.
Source:https://www.ccri.edu/momentum/ Last verified: . Read on the program's own or a government/college page. Confirm with the provider before applying.
Tuition-free associate degree at CCRI, for Rhode Islanders who enroll in the term right after high school or GED. The CCRI page lists an age limit of 18 or younger (19-21 can appeal), so it is generally not an option for career changers; see CCRI Momentum below for adults.
Who it is for (as stated)
Rhode Island resident; high school or GED graduate; 18 or younger (appeal at 19-21); associate degree program; 2026/27 FAFSA; enroll immediately after graduation.
Cost or award (as stated)
Tuition-free as stated
Deadline or timing
Tied to the term right after graduation.
Note: Included mainly so adults know it likely does not apply to them.
Source:https://www.ccri.edu/ripromise/ Last verified: . Read on the program's own or a government/college page. Confirm with the provider before applying.
DLT lists free or reduced-cost training programs, including Real Jobs Rhode Island programs that are free to admitted participants. You find a program that is currently recruiting and contact the provider, or meet a DLT job coach to check eligibility for training funds.
California Employment Development Department (EDD)
EDD describes America's Job Center of California as a network of local and state organizations that provides no-cost job and training services. Use CareerOneStop's American Job Center Finder to locate a center. EDD's training page also lists an Eligible Training Provider List of providers eligible for WIOA funding through Individual Training Accounts, including apprenticeship programs.
Who it is for (as stated)
Open to job seekers; training funds have WIOA eligibility rules.
Calbright College (part of the California Community Colleges)
Fully online, flexibly paced job-skills certificate programs. Calbright's FAQ says all programs are currently free thanks to public funding from the State of California, covering tuition, testing costs and technology such as Chromebooks and Wi-Fi devices. Programs listed on the FAQ: IT Support, Cybersecurity, CRM Platform Administration, Data Analysis, Project Management, Network Technology, HR Learning and Development, and Medical Coding (not accepting new applications at retrieval). Timelines of three, six, ten or fourteen months. The programs are noncredit and the college says it cannot guarantee a job.
Who it is for (as stated)
California residents aged 18 or older with a high school diploma or GED equivalent, regardless of immigration or financial status (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Free (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Enroll when ready; coursework starts after meeting with a support counselor.
The California Workforce Development Board says the statewide system is a network of 45 local workforce development areas, each guided by a business-led local board that oversees WIOA programs and workforce services. Its page lists the boards by name, and CareerOneStop's Workforce Development Board Finder lists the state board (800 Capital Mall, Suite 1022, Sacramento) with its website.
Who it is for (as stated)
Anyone looking for local workforce training help; WIOA programs have their own eligibility rules.
California Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Apprenticeship Standards
State search tool for registered California apprenticeship programs by county and occupation. Each result lists requirements such as minimum age, education, physical requirements, exams, whether a driver's license is needed, and how and where to apply. The state warns that listed programs are officially registered but may not currently be accepting applications; each program sets its own application schedule, so contact it to ask. The page also links resources for veterans, women in construction and youth.
Who it is for (as stated)
Varies by program (for example, one sample listing on the state site shows minimum age 18, high school/GED and written and oral tests).
Cost or award (as stated)
Registered apprenticeships are paid jobs with training (see each program)
CareerSource Florida / local workforce development boards
FloridaCommerce says Florida's 21 Local Workforce Development Boards use federal, state and local funding to provide services through CareerSource Florida career centers, including individualized career counseling, skills assessments, resume assistance, training and education, workshops, job search and placement, and career fairs. CareerSource Florida's career-services page adds interview support, training and upskilling, reemployment assistance and links to apprenticeship and career and technical education programs. Training scholarships (Individual Training Accounts, ITAs) are handled by each local board. One example, CareerSource Northeast Florida (Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau, Putnam and St. Johns counties), says an ITA is WIOA funding for occupational skills training with an approved provider in an in-demand occupation; to apply you register in Employ Florida, complete a pre-screening questionnaire and meet with staff. It states ITAs are not guaranteed, funding is limited and applications are reviewed case by case. Other boards set their own rules, so contact your local career center.
Who it is for (as stated)
Open to job seekers; training funds have eligibility rules set by each local board.
Cost or award (as stated)
Funding is limited and not guaranteed (as stated by CareerSource NEFL); contact your local board for what is covered
Deadline or timing
Ongoing; funding is limited.
Source:https://floridajobs.org/workforce-resources/local-workforce-development-boards Last verified: . FloridaCommerce, CareerSource Florida and CareerSource Northeast Florida pages read directly on the retrieval date. The ITA example is one local board's; other boards differ. Confirm with the provider before applying.
Florida Department of Education, Office of Apprenticeship
The Florida Department of Education's Office of Apprenticeship describes itself as the state apprenticeship agency authorized by the U.S. Department of Labor and issues the apprenticeship credential. FDOE says it oversees and supports registered apprenticeship and preapprenticeship programs, working with employers, local educational agencies and local workforce development boards. Its page links an Apprenticeship Finder Map to find a registered program near you and lists regional Apprenticeship Training Representatives by group of counties (for example Pensacola to Panama City, Tampa area, Orlando area, Broward and Palm Beach, Miami and the Keys); contact the office for the representative covering your county. Apply to the program sponsor. Apprentice Florida is described as a partnership of FDOE, FloridaCommerce and CareerSource Florida.
Who it is for (as stated)
Each program sponsor sets its own requirements.
Cost or award (as stated)
Registered apprenticeships are paid employment with training (as described by the state)
Deadline or timing
Each sponsor sets its own dates.
Note: Florida appears on Apprenticeship.gov's list of State Apprenticeship Agency states.
Source:https://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/apprenticeship-programs/ Last verified: . Official FDOE Office of Apprenticeship page read directly on the retrieval date; the Apprentice Florida partnership description comes from FloridaCommerce and Apprentice Florida pages. Confirm with the provider before applying.
Apprentice Georgia, run by TCSG, administers the state's High Demand Apprenticeship Program, which TCSG's policy manual (July 2025) describes as funding for Georgia employers or apprenticeship sponsors to create and expand registered apprenticeship programs. Funding goes to sponsors, not directly to applicants, so job seekers generally look for a registered sponsor and apply to it; ask your WorkSource Georgia office or technical college about openings.
Who it is for (as stated)
Each registered sponsor sets its own requirements.
Cost or award (as stated)
Registered apprenticeships are paid employment with training (as generally described)
Deadline or timing
Each sponsor sets its own dates.
Note: Georgia appears on Apprenticeship.gov's list of federal Office of Apprenticeship field-office states.
Technical College System of Georgia / Georgia Student Finance Commission
TCSG says students can enroll in one of 18 programs of study with free tuition through the HOPE Career Grant, including automotive, aviation, commercial truck driving, computer programming and technology, construction, diesel, electrical lineman, health science, industrial maintenance, logistics, practical nursing, precision manufacturing, welding, early childhood education and law enforcement. To be eligible you must first qualify for and receive the HOPE Grant (Georgia residency, citizenship or eligible non-citizen status, Selective Service compliance and academic standards apply). Together the grants cover all tuition in these programs; students still pay fees and equipment, though financial aid may help.
Who it is for (as stated)
Georgia residents who qualify for the HOPE Grant; full-time enrollment not required (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Tuition covered in eligible programs; fees and equipment are not (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Ongoing; apply through the financial aid office at a Georgia technical college.
Source:https://www.tcsg.edu/free-tuition/ Last verified: . TCSG page read directly; GSFC pages as reported in search results on the retrieval date. The program list can change, so confirm with the college. Confirm with the provider before applying.
Technical College System of Georgia, Office of Workforce Development
TCSG's Office of Workforce Development administers WorkSource Georgia, the state's federally funded WIOA employment and training system, delivered through 17 local offices. Its Services for Individuals page lists career services, and training services such as Individual Training Accounts for occupational skills, on-the-job training and apprenticeships. TCSG states WIOA training funds are limited to people who cannot get other grant help (for example HOPE or Pell) or who need more than that provides, and the office can help you establish eligibility for HOPE and Pell.
Who it is for (as stated)
WIOA eligibility determination required for training services.
Cost or award (as stated)
Career services free; training funds if eligible (limited, as stated)
Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO)
DCEO lists Apprenticeship Illinois among its workforce programs for employers, individuals and education partners, describing it as an 'earn and learn' model that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. The Apprenticeship Illinois page on Illinois workNet explains registered apprenticeship and links to the federal ApprenticeshipUSA site for general information and policies. IllinoisJobLink.com says job seekers with an account can find on-the-job training and apprenticeship opportunities. For the contact line, DCEO publishes a workforce email address and phone number on its Programs and Resources page.
Who it is for (as stated)
Each program sponsor sets its own requirements.
Cost or award (as stated)
Registered apprenticeships are paid employment with training (as described by the state)
Deadline or timing
Each sponsor sets its own dates.
Note: Illinois appears on Apprenticeship.gov's list of federal Office of Apprenticeship field-office states.
Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO)
DCEO lists Illinois workNet as its resource for training and employment goals, alongside WIOA programs, Trade Adjustment Assistance and layoff recovery resources. IllinoisJobLink.com says job seekers can connect with a career counselor about state and federally funded opportunities to learn in-demand skills and gain industry-recognized credentials, and can search jobs, on-the-job training and apprenticeships. Illinois workNet's Service Finder lets you search for a nearby center, and its WIOA training search lists programs by region and county, including registered apprenticeships; ask a center whether funding fits your situation.
Who it is for (as stated)
Open to job seekers; WIOA-funded training has eligibility rules.
Cost or award (as stated)
Counseling and job search free; training funds if eligible
Deadline or timing
Ongoing.
Note: No official statewide free-college program was verified for Illinois this pass, so none is listed.
Source:https://ijl.illinois.gov/job_seeker Last verified: . IllinoisJobLink and DCEO pages read directly; the workNet Service Finder and WIOA training search were described from search-result excerpts of those official pages. Confirm with the provider before applying.
Michigan describes Reconnect as a last-dollar scholarship that pays for you to attend your in-district community college tuition-free, or gives a large discount at an out-of-district college. As stated, you must be at least 21 when you apply, have lived in Michigan for at least a year, have a high school diploma, equivalency or certificate of completion, and not already have an associate or bachelor's degree, plus meet residency rules. Steps: apply online, apply to a Michigan public community college, submit the FAFSA, and enroll in a Pell-eligible skill certificate or associate degree. The state says you can keep using it until you earn an associate degree or reach four years from your first Reconnect semester.
Who it is for (as stated)
Michigan residents 21+ without an associate or bachelor's degree (other conditions as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Free in-district tuition and mandatory fees (as stated); out-of-district only partly covered
Deadline or timing
Ongoing; see the state page for current terms.
Source:https://www.michigan.gov/reconnect/about Last verified: . Official Michigan Reconnect 'About' page read directly; community-college and FAQ pages from search excerpts. Confirm with the provider before applying.
Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO)
LEO says registered apprenticeships let you get paid to gain skills, with progressive wage increases and a nationally recognized credential, in many occupations including construction, education, energy, healthcare, IT and manufacturing. Ways to get started listed by the state: look for a MARC-endorsed pre-apprenticeship program, contact your local Michigan Works! for guidance, search Registered Apprenticeship openings on Pure Michigan Talent Connect or the federal Apprenticeship site, or complete the state's Registered Apprenticeship Interest Form. LEO notes some programs require an entrance exam such as the ACT WorkKeys, and that many are approved for GI Bill benefits for veterans.
Who it is for (as stated)
Each program sponsor sets its own requirements.
Cost or award (as stated)
Registered apprenticeships are paid employment with training (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Each sponsor sets its own dates.
Note: Michigan appears on Apprenticeship.gov's list of federal Office of Apprenticeship field-office states.
Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO)
LEO says Michigan Works! offers personalized coaching in career exploration, resume writing and interview practice, access to computers and internet, and connections to funding opportunities for education and job training; it may also help with child care and transportation needs. Call your local Michigan Works! One-Stop Service Center at the statewide number published on the page (800-285-WORKS) to be connected with your regional office.
Who it is for (as stated)
Open to job seekers; funding programs have eligibility rules.
New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA)
HESAA says CCOG represents New Jersey's commitment to tuition-free community college: based on income, eligible residents can pursue a first associate degree tuition-free at a New Jersey community college. It covers remaining tuition (up to 18 credits per term) and approved education fees after other grants and scholarships. As stated, you must be a New Jersey resident with adjusted gross income of $0-$65,000, complete the FAFSA or NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application each year by the state deadline, enroll in at least six credits per semester, not yet have a college degree, and make satisfactory academic progress. Out-of-county tuition and fee differences are not covered.
Who it is for (as stated)
NJ residents with AGI $0-$65,000 and no college degree (other conditions as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Covers remaining tuition and approved fees after other aid (as stated)
Deadline or timing
State aid deadlines stated by HESAA: April 15 (returning TAG recipients) and September 15 (new students and others).
Source:https://www.hesaa.org/pages/ccog.aspx Last verified: . Official HESAA page read directly on the retrieval date. Confirm with the provider before applying.
New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development
NJDOL lists One-Stop Career Centers by county, staffed by employment counselors, offering job search assistance, training and education assistance, specialized services and on-site resource rooms with computers. The centers' listed services include career navigation and counseling, Jersey Job Club workshops, ESL classes, job training services, HSE preparation, interviewing and resume help, and tuition waiver, with specialized help for people with disabilities, mature workers, displaced homemakers, veterans, people with past convictions and youth ages 16-24. Each county listing gives an address, phone number and hours; services differ by location.
Who it is for (as stated)
Open to job seekers; some services have eligibility rules.
Cost or award (as stated)
Services free (as described); training funds if eligible
Deadline or timing
Ongoing; centers list weekday hours and holiday closures.
New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development
NJDOL describes registered apprenticeship as full-time employment combining paid on-the-job learning with classroom instruction, with pay increases as skills grow and a nationally recognized credential at the end, in fields such as construction, healthcare, IT, telecom, energy, advanced manufacturing, finance, hospitality and transportation. It says apprentices are paid while learning and that, depending on the program, a sponsor may cover training costs. To get information, use NJDOL's online form or email the apprenticeship office address published on the page; you apply through an employer or program sponsor.
Who it is for (as stated)
Each program sponsor sets its own requirements.
Cost or award (as stated)
Registered apprenticeships are paid employment with training (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Each sponsor sets its own dates.
Note: New Jersey appears on Apprenticeship.gov's list of federal Office of Apprenticeship field-office states.
NYS DOL says its 33 Local Workforce Development Boards serve as the backbone of the statewide workforce system and deliver skill-based programs through One-Stop Career Centers. Use the department's Career Centers page to find one. The department's Eligible Training Provider List and Training Opportunities page show approved training; contact a local Career Center to learn whether WIOA training funding fits your situation.
Who it is for (as stated)
Open to job seekers; WIOA training funds have eligibility rules.
Cost or award (as stated)
Services free; training funds if eligible
Deadline or timing
Ongoing.
Source:https://dol.ny.gov/workforce-boards Last verified: . Workforce Boards page read directly; Career Centers and Training Opportunities pages known from search results. Confirm with the provider before applying.
NYS DOL says apprentices earn a paycheck while learning through on-the-job training and related classroom training. You must be 18, or 16-17 with parental approval. Training lasts one to six years depending on the trade. Two pathways: recruitment into a NYS Registered Apprenticeship (if you meet the program's requirements) or a 'Direct Entry' program that builds the skills needed to qualify. Training is usually offered by the sponsor at no cost to the apprentice, with rare exceptions the page describes. Most programs require a high school diploma or equivalent; some require specific courses, experience or physical ability. Search openings in the NYS Job Bank or contact your local apprenticeship office; contact email published on the page.
Who it is for (as stated)
18+ (or 16-17 with parental approval); each sponsor sets its minimum qualifications.
Cost or award (as stated)
Usually no cost to the apprentice; apprentices are paid (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Each sponsor sets its own dates; see Apprenticeship Announcements on the state site.
SUNY says the program covers tuition, fees, books and supplies after other aid such as NYS TAP is applied, for eligible New York residents 25-55 studying in an eligible degree program, full or part time. Eligible fields shown include aviation management/air traffic control, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity (see the page for the full list, which also covers other fields such as nursing and green energy). SUNY says that starting January 2027 free associate degrees are available to all New Yorkers 25-55, including those who already have a college degree; starting fall 2026 adults in eligible nursing degrees may qualify even with a prior degree.
Who it is for (as stated)
New York State resident, age 25-55, full- or part-time in an eligible degree program (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Tuition, fees, books and supplies after other aid (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Page says to find a program now to start this spring; see SUNY for each college's dates.
ApprenticeshipNC says registered apprenticeship combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction and credentials. It publishes a Registered Apprenticeship Directory; for opportunities that interest you, contact the employer or educational partner listed. ApprenticeshipNC states it is not a staffing agency and cannot provide current job vacancies. NCCCS says registered apprenticeship can start at age 16 and describes a community college tuition waiver for students who complete a qualifying pre-apprenticeship and enroll in a registered apprenticeship within 120 days of graduation, and for high school students already enrolled in a qualifying registered apprenticeship. Its youth page says you apply by contacting the program sponsor or employer. The office publishes a phone number and email on the page.
Who it is for (as stated)
Each sponsor sets its own requirements; youth pathway from age 16.
Cost or award (as stated)
Registered apprenticeships are paid employment with training (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Each sponsor sets its own dates.
Note: North Carolina appears on Apprenticeship.gov's list of State Apprenticeship Agency states.
NC Commerce says 70+ NCWorks Career Centers across the state offer, at no charge, career assessment and guidance, access to training and education programs, job fairs and workshops, resume help and free computer access, plus special programs for veterans, young adults, migrant and seasonal farm workers and justice-involved people. Registering with NCWorks Online lets you search jobs and training in your area. NC Commerce says 19 local workforce development boards are responsible for local WIOA plans and oversight of the local service delivery system; contact your local board through the N.C. Association of Workforce Development Boards. Ask your center whether WIOA training support fits your situation.
Who it is for (as stated)
Open to job seekers; WIOA training funds have eligibility rules.
Cost or award (as stated)
Services free (as stated); training funds if eligible
L&I says Pennsylvania's 22 local workforce development boards connect the department with PA CareerLink services for job seekers, workers, training providers and employers, develop regional strategic plans and set funding priorities for their areas. The L&I page lists each board with a phone number and website (for example Berks, Philadelphia, Three Rivers, Lehigh Valley, South Central and Westmoreland-Fayette); L&I notes board websites are not state government sites. The PA CareerLink individuals page lets you find your local office; contact it to ask whether training funding fits your situation.
Who it is for (as stated)
Open to job seekers; training funds have eligibility rules.
Pennsylvania's Department of Labor & Industry says job seekers can find registered apprenticeships through their local PA CareerLink, whose staff can help you apply from start to finish. L&I states all Pennsylvanians are eligible to apply, though program requirements and prerequisites vary. PA CareerLink describes a registered apprenticeship as full-time paid employment with at least 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and 144 hours of classroom instruction, with many programs lasting four or more years; sponsors set selection procedures. For a full list of programs with sponsor contacts, the page says to email the Apprenticeship and Training Office (and ask for the Job Seeker Liaison), and a separate address handles pre-apprenticeship listings. PA CareerLink also names Pell Grants, the GI Bill and WIOA among funding that can support apprentices.
Who it is for (as stated)
Open to Pennsylvanians; each program sets its own requirements.
Cost or award (as stated)
Registered apprenticeships are paid employment with training (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Each program sets its own dates.
Note: Pennsylvania appears on Apprenticeship.gov's list of State Apprenticeship Agency states.
TWC's ApprenticeshipTexas describes apprenticeship as an employer-driven earn-while-you-learn model combining on-the-job training with job-related instruction. TWC's FAQ (last updated 9-9-24) lists the basics: apprentices are full-time W-2 employees, at least 2,000 hours of on-the-job learning per year and at least 144 hours of related technical instruction per year, with wages that rise as skills grow and a nationally recognized credential issued by the Department of Labor. Job seekers search registered programs through TWC's apprenticeship job search or the federal Apprenticeship Finder and apply to the employer or sponsor. TWC's find-apprenticeships page says sponsors set the qualifications; minimums it lists are age 16 (18 for some hazardous jobs) and a high school diploma or equivalent, though each program may differ, and some ask for aptitude tests or experience. It lists steps: find a program in the Apprenticeship Finder, contact it, apply, and sign an apprentice agreement. The office's email address is published on the page.
Who it is for (as stated)
Set by each employer or sponsor; TWC lists age 16+ and a diploma or equivalent as typical minimums.
Cost or award (as stated)
Paid employment with training (as described by TWC)
Deadline or timing
Each employer or sponsor sets its own dates.
Note: Texas appears on Apprenticeship.gov's list of Office of Apprenticeship (federal field office) states, not recognized State Apprenticeship Agency states.
TWC lists 28 locally managed workforce development boards that operate Workforce Solutions offices. The TWC Directory of Texas Workforce Solutions and Services can be searched by ZIP code for nearby job placement, resume and application help, career exploration and training programs, which the directory describes as free services. Training funding generally runs through local boards, so ask your local office what applies.
Who it is for (as stated)
Open to job seekers; training funds have program eligibility rules.
Cost or award (as stated)
Services free (as stated); training funds if eligible
Deadline or timing
Ongoing.
Source:https://www.twc.texas.gov/agency/workforce-development-boards Last verified: . TWC pages reported through search results on the retrieval date; TWC pages may block direct reading, so details come from those summaries. Confirm with the provider before applying.
Virginia Works / local workforce development boards
Virginia Works publishes the Eligible Training Provider List, a statewide directory of approved programs for in-demand occupations. It states eligible adults and dislocated workers with employment barriers, and out-of-school youth 16-24, enrolled in WIOA Title I may receive local-board-funded Individual Training Accounts; each local board has its own policies, and being on the list does not guarantee funding. As one local example, Virginia Career Works Northern Region says its six One-Stop Employment Centers offer free basic career services (computers, resume workshops, coaching, assessments), with individualized services and training subject to eligibility and funding. Contact your local workforce board or center.
Who it is for (as stated)
Open to job seekers; WIOA-funded training has eligibility rules and local policies.
Cost or award (as stated)
Basic services free (as stated by the Northern Region); training funds if eligible and available
Virginia's G3 program provides last-dollar financial assistance to low- and middle-income students enrolled in a community college program leading to a high-demand occupation. Per the Code of Virginia and the program FAQ: household income at or below 400 percent of the federal poverty level, eligibility for in-state tuition, enrollment in an approved program (at least six credit hours per semester, or an approved short-term program), and applying for other federal and state aid. The award covers remaining tuition, mandatory fees and a textbook stipend after other aid, and the FAQ says it can bring out-of-pocket costs to $0. A diploma or GED is not required for G3 itself but may be for specific programs. Each of the 23 community colleges lists its approved programs.
Who it is for (as stated)
Virginia residents under the income limit in approved programs (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Last-dollar tuition, fees and textbook stipend (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Apply through the regular enrollment process at your community college.
Source:https://virginiag3.com/g3-faqs/ Last verified: . G3 FAQ page and Code of Virginia section 23.1-2911.2 read directly on the retrieval date. Confirm with the provider before applying.
Virginia Works (Virginia's workforce development agency)
Virginia Works says registered apprenticeship combines paid on-the-job training with related technical instruction, leading to industry-recognized credentials. It states apprenticeship is employer driven, so you must be hired by an employer sponsor before you can be officially registered as an apprentice; if your current employer is not a registered sponsor, they can contact a local Registered Apprenticeship Consultant. The page publishes an office phone number and a general-questions email address for the apprenticeship team.
Who it is for (as stated)
You must be hired by an employer sponsor (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Registered apprenticeships are paid employment with training (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Each sponsor sets its own dates.
Note: Virginia appears on Apprenticeship.gov's list of State Apprenticeship Agency states.
WSAC says eligible apprentices can receive grant money to help cover costs of an approved apprenticeship program. As stated, to qualify you must work in a participating WG-A program, have a high school diploma or equivalent, be a Washington resident, meet family income and need requirements, not have a bachelor's degree or higher, not owe repayment on any state aid and have quarters of eligibility remaining. For 2026-27 WSAC lists a maximum award of $2,548 and says a family of four making up to $139,500 can qualify; awards depend on median family income and may be prorated. Not every program of a sponsor is approved, so check your sponsor. WSAC does not place or hire apprentices.
Who it is for (as stated)
Washington residents in participating registered apprenticeship programs who meet income and need rules.
Cost or award (as stated)
Grant; does not need to be repaid if requirements are met (as stated)
Deadline or timing
2026-27 application opened July 1, 2026; check WSAC for current dates.
Source:https://wsac.wa.gov/wcg-apprentices Last verified: . Official WSAC page read directly on the retrieval date. Confirm with the provider before applying.
L&I says anyone can pursue an apprenticeship and that starting is similar to applying for a job: choose a program, apply, interview and possibly take an aptitude test, then get selected. Generally you must be able to do the work (with or without reasonable accommodation) and provide proof of age, a high school diploma or equivalent and other documents. Its Apprenticeship Registration & Tracking System (ARTS) lists all registered programs, searchable by county and occupation, with links to program standards and websites. L&I states it is neither a staffing agency nor a career counseling business. Union and non-union programs both exist, and cost depends on the program. Apprenticeship preparation programs can help you get ready.
Who it is for (as stated)
Each program sets its own requirements (typically age proof and diploma or equivalent, as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
Depends on the program (as stated)
Deadline or timing
Each program sets its own dates.
Note: Washington appears on Apprenticeship.gov's list of State Apprenticeship Agency states.
ESD says WorkSource is a partnership of state and local organizations with full-service centers around the state, and that WorkSource services are free. Staff can assess your skills, refer you to jobs, help with resumes and applications, point you to free workshops, help you create an account on the WorkSource website and help you research labor market information. ESD also lists programs that pay unemployment benefits while in job training (Commissioner-Approved Training, Training Benefits and Self-Employment Assistance). Use the WorkSource locator to find a center near you.
Locate your nearest American Job Center for free career counseling, job-search help and training referrals. Counselors can tell you whether WIOA training funds (often an Individual Training Account for programs on your state's approved list) fit your situation.
Who it is for (as stated)
Open to the public; training funds depend on WIOA eligibility.
Search open apprenticeship job opportunities nationwide by occupation and location, and a Partner Finder to learn when programs are accepting applications. Results are tagged as Registered Occupation or Registered Partner.
U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship
Registered apprenticeship programs are registered and overseen either by the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Apprenticeship (OA) or by a recognized State Apprenticeship Agency (SAA), depending on the state. Apprenticeship.gov lists recognized SAAs for: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Guam, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Minnesota, Montana, North Carolina, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia, Virgin Islands, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin. It lists OA field-office states including Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming (California appears on both lists). A separate State Offices page gives contacts for each state's apprenticeship office.
Who it is for (as stated)
Anyone looking for the right state office; each program sets its own entry requirements.
Cost or award (as stated)
Free to look up
Deadline or timing
Not applicable.
Note: The OA/SAA lists are copied as published on the page on the retrieval date and can change; the federal help line shown on Apprenticeship.gov is 1-877-US-2JOBS.
SkillPointe Foundation for Stanley Black & Decker / DEWALT
$5,000 one-time scholarships for students in U.S. or Canadian skilled-trades programs (construction, electrical, HVAC and related fields). The 2025-26 cycle opened Nov 4, 2025 and closed Feb 28, 2026; the page offers an Interest List for the next window.
Who it is for (as stated)
Enrolled in or accepted to a post-secondary skilled-trades program; service-industry programs such as healthcare, culinary and cosmetology are not eligible; one-time award (as stated).
Cost or award (as stated)
$5,000 (as stated)
Deadline or timing
2026 cycle closed February 28, 2026. Last cycle's window opened in early November; watch for the next one.
Federal grant that generally does not have to be repaid. Federal Student Aid says any undergraduate student, regardless of age, who has not earned a bachelor's, graduate or professional degree may be eligible if they have financial need. For the 2026-27 award year (July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027) the maximum award is $7,395 and the minimum is $740, per the Department's published notice; the actual award depends on your FAFSA results, family size, school cost and enrollment. The 2026-27 FSA Handbook says that starting July 1, 2026 students in an eligible workforce program may qualify even if they already hold a bachelor's degree. Lifetime Pell eligibility is limited to 12 semesters or the equivalent.
Who it is for (as stated)
Undergraduate students with financial need who meet FAFSA rules; see the Federal Student Aid pages for exceptions.
Cost or award (as stated)
Up to $7,395 for 2026-27 (as stated); minimum $740
Deadline or timing
Complete the FAFSA for each award year; see studentaid.gov for the current deadlines.
SkillPointe Foundation (Home Depot Foundation's Path to Pro routes applicants here)
One-time $1,000 grants for people in skilled-trades training that does not require a four-year degree (construction, energy, manufacturing, transportation, healthcare and others). Applicants stay eligible until they finish training. The Home Depot Foundation's page says its Path to Pro scholarship is open to anyone pursuing skilled trades training, accepted year-round and approved quarterly. SkillPointe also offers a Universal Application that checks your eligibility for its other scholarships.
Who it is for (as stated)
Anyone in skilled-trades training in any U.S. state, per the Perry Technical Institute listing of the program; SkillPointe's list gives details for each scholarship.
Cost or award (as stated)
$1,000 one-time grant (as stated on the third-party listing)
Deadline or timing
Quarterly dates listed by SkillPointe: March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31. Next: December 31, 2026.
Source:https://www.skillpointefoundation.org/es/scholarship-list Last verified: . Official SkillPointe list page (Spanish version) plus Home Depot's page; the $1,000 amount was read on a school's listing of the scholarship (Perry Technical Institute), not SkillPointe's own English page, which could not be loaded. Confirm with the provider before applying.
U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration
Federal workforce program delivered through American Job Centers that offers job-search assistance and training opportunities. The Department says Job Center staff must give priority for individualized career services and training funded with Adult funds to recipients of public assistance, other low-income individuals and people who are basic-skills deficient, and that veterans receive priority of service in all DOL-funded employment programs. Federal rules describe training paid through Individual Training Accounts (ITAs) at providers on a state's eligible training provider list. Adults must be 18 or older for career services; services and eligibility vary by state and local area.
Who it is for (as stated)
Adults 18+; training eligibility and priority rules apply (see the DOL page and your local Job Center).
Cost or award (as stated)
Services free; training funds only if approved (as described)
Deadline or timing
Ongoing; contact your local American Job Center before enrolling in training.
Note: Call 1-877-US-2JOBS (as published by the Department) or use the CareerOneStop American Job Center finder.
Beginning July 1, 2026, students can receive a Workforce Pell Grant for an eligible short-term program of 150-599 clock hours lasting at least 8 but fewer than 15 weeks. Students must meet normal Pell eligibility including financial need and attend a program approved by the state governor and the Secretary of Education. Ask the school whether a specific program is approved before counting on it.
Who it is for (as stated)
Pell-eligible students in approved short-term programs.
Cost or award (as stated)
Federal grant; amount depends on Pell rules
Deadline or timing
Ongoing; file the FAFSA and ask the school which programs qualify.
Scholarship for people enrolling in approved skilled-trade training. The 2026 window runs Feb 23 to Oct 31, 2026 with four decision rounds. Application steps listed by the foundation: enroll in an approved program, sign the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge, answer four questions, make a video, have two references, verify school costs and provide a transcript.
Who it is for (as stated)
People entering approved skilled trade programs (see the foundation's page for the current program list and rules).
Cost or award (as stated)
Varies (not a fixed amount)
Deadline or timing
Final 2026 deadline: October 31, 2026, 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time (decisions announced in December). Earlier rounds closed Apr 30, Jun 30 and Aug 30.
Source:https://mikeroweworks.org/scholarship/ Last verified: . Read on the program's own or a government/college page. Confirm with the provider before applying.
