Funding assistance may be available for Workforce Solutions career training/non-credit programs and classes through grants and scholarships. Not all programs and classes are approved for all of the following. Additionally, not all of the funds are managed by Virginia Western so the following list is meant to assist you in obtaining the most assistance possible to ensure your success.
You may qualify for multiple forms of funding assistance! Our Navigators are happy to help you determine what is the best match for you. Information about assistance programs and scholarships can be found below, but you can fill out this form or call 540-857-6076 and a Navigator will contact you to discuss your options.
Financial Assistance Programs
Financial Assistance for Non-Credit Training Resulting in Industry Credentials (FANTIC)
Short-term credential programs are now eligible for tuition assistance through FANTIC. The income guidelines allow more students to apply for and receive assistance with the costs of obtaining in-demand industry credentials.
All FastForward approved programs are eligible for FANTIC. For a full list, go here.
Income Guidelines
Applicants must qualify for FastForward and demonstrate that their household adjusted gross income is 400% or below that of the national federal poverty level. Determined by the 2024 HUD Guidelines for Virginia:
| Persons in Family/Household | Poverty Guidelines | FANTIC 200% of Poverty (Poverty Guideline x 2) | FANTIC 300% of Poverty (Poverty Guideline x 3) | FANTIC 400% of Poverty (Poverty Guideline x 4) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $14,580 | $29,160 | $43,740 | $58,320 |
| 2 | $19,720 | $39,440 | $59,160 | $78,880 |
| 3 | $24,860 | $49,720 | $74,580 | $99,440 |
| 4 | $30,000 | $60,000 | $90,000 | $120,000 |
| 5 | $35,140 | $70,280 | $105,420 | $140,560 |
| 6 | $40,280 | $80,560 | $120,840 | $161,120 |
| 7 | $49,420 | $90,840 | $136,260 | $181,680 |
| 8 | $50,560 | $101,120 | $151,680 | $202,240 |
FastForward
The FastForward Grant is a state-funded grant that aims to increase the number of Virginians who have an in-demand industry credential. FastForward provides funds for two-thirds of the cost of training upon completion of the class and related credentialing exam. FastForward participants are required to sign a promissory note agreeing to complete the training and the credentialing exam. If you do not complete the course, you will owe the state funding back. This can be collected through your state tax refund until paid in full.
For example: Tuition for Medical Assisting is $3,267, but after FastForward you only need to pay $1,070. FastForward recipients may qualify for additional assistance that can reduce or eliminate the remaining tuition cost. There are multiple grants available that individuals may qualify for, due to special circumstances or income level, that can reduce the out-of-pocket cost by 90-100 percent.
For full program details, visit https://www.fastforwardva.org/program-details/.
G3
As a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic and various initiatives currently being deployed by the Commonwealth of Virginia, we are in a very unique and historic position to offer free funding to students beyond the typical grants, scholarships and other financial aid. This is free money to pay for college. It’s not a loan, and doesn’t have to be paid back. These initiatives are meant to strengthen Virginia’s workforce in key areas while offering the means to Virginia residents who wish to straighten their career paths, bolster their skills, or increase their earning potential.
Click here to see if you qualify!
Workforce Solutions Partners
Virginia Career Works manages several federal grants under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act for youth, adults, and dislocated workers. 540-613-8220
Scholarships
There are several scholarships available that can be used in combination with grants listed above if additional assistance is needed. Our Career Navigators will help you determine which funding options are best for you.
Roanoke City Scholarship
The Roanoke City Scholarship is available for any Workforce Solutions credential class. You must be a Roanoke City resident under 300% of the poverty line (see income chart below).
Tobacco Commission Scholarship
The Tobacco Commission Scholarship provides funding for 50% of student tuition responsibility for residents of Southside Virginia region. See if you live in an eligible area.
Programs approved for funding August 2023-August 2024:
- CDL
- Heavy Equipment Operator
- Machining
- Mechatronics: Electricity, Precision Measuring, Mechanical Systems, & Torque
- Medical Assisting
- Pharmacy Technician
- Welding: FCAW & GMAW
Workforce Credentials Scholarship
The Workforce Credentials Scholarship supports students applying for educational assistance (tuition, books and fees) due to life circumstances affecting their ability to fund their own education, including but not limited to Dislocated Workers, Dislocated Military, Dislocated Homemakers, Unemployed/Underemployed, Dislocated due to Medical Condition/Disability, Independent Business Owners, or Income Eligible.
Some funding has income level eligibility. Please review the income chart to see if your family qualifies.
Example: A Roanoke City resident that qualifies for the FastForward grant and is married with two kids with a combined income of under $75,300 could receive Roanoke City Scholarship assistance for the remaining 1/3 tuition.
Income Chart
Household size is based on how many individuals you claim on your taxes if you are over 24 years old. Find your household size and follow the row to see what the income level groups are.
| Household Size | > | 100% | – | 200% | – | 300% | – | 400% | < |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $14,580 | $29,160 | $43,740 | $58,320 | |||||
| 2 | $19,720 | $39,440 | $59,160 | $78,880 | |||||
| 3 | $24,860 | $49,720 | $74,580 | $99,440 | |||||
| 4 | $30,000 | $60,000 | $90,000 | $120,000 | |||||
| 5 | $35,140 | $70,280 | $105,420 | $140,560 | |||||
| 6 | $40,280 | $80,560 | $120,840 | $161,120 | |||||
| 7 | $45,420 | $90,840 | $136,260 | $181,680 | |||||
| 8 | $50,560 | $101,120 | $151,680 | $202,240 |