Future Workforce Grant (formerly HEAPS Workforce)
West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission (WVHEPC), Division of Financial Aid
Need-based grant of up to $2,000 for short-term certificate, industry credential and skill programs in West Virginia demand occupations.
- How much
- Up to $2,000 per academic year
- Who qualifies
- WV resident 12 months; SAI up to 13,000 (2026-27); enrolled in an approved short-term certificate/credential program at a participating institution; not in default or incarcerated.
- For adults going back to school, trade school students, undergrads
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Need-based: your FAFSA decides how much you get.
- When to apply
- Apply any time Rolling, first-come first-served from July 1 each year until funds run out.
- How to apply
- File the FAFSA (2026-27 FAFSA for programs starting July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027), then submit the Future Workforce Grant application in your WVSAM account as soon as possible after it opens July 1
- What you'll need
- FAFSA + state application
- Last checked
- October 5, 2026, against the official page (cfwv.com), page 2, page 3 and page 4
The details
Students with financial need enrolled in an approved non-credit or short-term certificate, industry-recognized credential or skill development program (programs under 12 months, tied to targeted industries; list set annually by the Council for Community and Technical College Education) may receive the program cost up to $2,000 toward tuition, required testing and required supplies not covered by other aid. Cumulative maximum of $2,000 per academic year across programs; one award per program; usable for up to 4 years. Eligibility: West Virginia resident 12 months; U.S. citizen or permanent resident; FAFSA showing need (SAI up to and including 13,000 for 2026-27); high school diploma or equivalent; not in default; not incarcerated. First-come, first-served while funds last; you learn of the award through your institution.
More money from West Virginia
- West Virginia PROMISE ScholarshipUp to $5,500 per year (or tuition and mandatory fees, whichever is less)
- West Virginia Higher Education GrantUp to $3,400 per year at eligible West Virginia schools; up to $600 per year at eligible Pennsylvania schools (2026-27)
- Reduced Tuition for Senior Citizens (60 and older)Non-credit: up to $50 per course; for credit: no more than 50% of normal resident tuition and fees
- West Virginia Invests GrantTuition, mandatory fees and approved academic program fees not covered by other grants or waivers (last-dollar)
Keep looking
- Answer a few questions to see every program you qualify for
- Nearby states: Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia
- Federal aid and national scholarships (open to students in any state)
- The FAFSA in plain English (2027-28)
- Should I file the FAFSA if I don't think I'll qualify?
- FAFSA deadlines by state (2027-28)
- The FAFSA for parents: what you need to do
- How to save on textbooks: free, rented and cheaper options
We list programs; we don't decide who gets them. Always check the official page before you apply. Spot something wrong? Tell us.