Upskilling Funding Programs

Department of Labor (DOL)

Pays for occupational training, on-the-job training, and supportive services like transportation and childcare while you train. Also covers career counseling and job placement help.

$3,000-$10,000 training voucher (varies by local area)

Department of Labor (DOL)

Covers retraining for a new career, on-the-job training, and supportive services. Includes career counseling, resume help, and job search assistance.

$5,000-$10,000 training voucher (varies by local area)

Department of Labor (DOL)

Provides tutoring, mentoring, work experience, occupational skills training, leadership development, and follow-up services for up to 12 months after program completion.

Free training plus paid work experience ($10-$15/hr)

Department of Labor (DOL)

Covers up to 2 years of retraining for a new career, income support while training (TRA payments), job search allowances, and relocation allowances if you need to move for a new job.

Full tuition for approved training plus income support

Department of Education

A grant (free money, not a loan) that can be used for tuition, fees, books, supplies, and living expenses at any participating school. Amount depends on your financial need.

Up to $7,395/year (2025-26 award year)

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

Pays full tuition and fees at public schools (or a capped amount at private schools), provides a monthly housing allowance, and gives a $1,000/year book stipend.

Full tuition + $1,500-$3,000/month housing allowance for 36 months

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

Provides a monthly education benefit for up to 36 months that can be used for college, technical/vocational courses, flight training, and correspondence courses.

Up to $2,200/month for 36 months of full-time study

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

Pays tuition for approved tech training programs (coding bootcamps, data science, cybersecurity, etc.) plus a housing allowance during training. Does not reduce your GI Bill balance.

Full tuition for tech bootcamp + housing allowance

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

Pays for training, education, resume help, job coaching, and all supplies needed. Can also cover self-employment assistance and independent living services for severely disabled veterans.

Full cost of training + monthly subsistence allowance

USDA / State agencies

Covers job training, education (including GED and vocational certificates), transportation costs, work clothes, tools, and other expenses you need to get a job.

Free training plus reimbursement for job-related expenses

Health and Human Services (HHS) / State agencies

Provides job readiness training, subsidized employment, vocational education (up to 12 months), community service, and supportive services like childcare and transportation.

Free training and supportive services while receiving TANF

Department of Education

Funds career and technical education programs including equipment, curriculum development, teacher training, and direct student support like tutoring and career counseling.

Free or subsidized CTE programs at participating schools

Department of Commerce / NSF

Funds training programs for semiconductor manufacturing jobs, including technician training, engineering education, and workforce development partnerships between industry and schools.

Free or subsidized semiconductor workforce training

Department of Energy / EPA

Funds training for clean energy careers through grants to unions, community colleges, and nonprofits. Includes prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements that create high-quality training pathways.

Free clean energy job training programs

Department of Labor (DOL)

You earn a paycheck while learning on the job, plus get free classroom instruction. Programs last 1-6 years depending on the trade and lead to a nationally recognized credential.

Earn $15-$30/hr while training + free instruction

Department of Labor (DOL)

Provides free career training in 100+ fields, plus free housing, meals, medical care, and a living allowance. You also get help earning your GED or high school diploma if needed.

Free training, housing, meals, and living allowance

Department of Labor (DOL)

Combines GED/high school diploma prep with hands-on construction training (building affordable housing). Also offers leadership development, counseling, and job placement.

Free training + stipend ($200-$400/week)

Department of Labor (DOL)

Places you in a part-time community service job (20 hours/week) at a nonprofit or government agency while you train. Provides on-the-job experience and helps transition to permanent employment.

Paid part-time work experience at minimum wage or higher

Department of Labor (DOL)

Provides free job search assistance, resume help, career counseling, labor market information, and referrals to job openings and training programs.

Free career services (no monetary award)

Department of Education

Gives you a part-time job (on or off campus) to help pay for school. Your wages are partially funded by the federal government, so employers are more willing to hire you.

$2,000-$4,000/year in earnings

Department of Labor (DOL)

Provides job training, mentoring, legal assistance with record expungement, career counseling, and help with barriers like transportation and housing that make it hard to get a job.

Free training and comprehensive support services

AmeriCorps (Corporation for National and Community Service)

After completing your service, you earn a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award that can be used to pay for college, grad school, or to repay student loans. You also get a living stipend during service.

$7,395 education award + ~$20,000 living stipend for full-time service

National Science Foundation (NSF) / OPM

Pays full tuition and fees, plus a generous stipend ($27,000/year for undergrads, $34,000/year for grad students). Also covers books and professional development.

Full tuition + $27,000-$34,000/year stipend

National Science Foundation (NSF)

Funds the development of high-quality technician education programs at community colleges in fields like IT, biotech, advanced manufacturing, and energy. Students benefit through improved programs and scholarships.

Free or low-cost technician training at community colleges

Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)

Offers scholarships covering tuition and fees plus a living stipend in exchange for serving 2+ years in a Health Professional Shortage Area. Also offers loan repayment up to $50,000 for those already practicing.

Full scholarship or up to $50,000 in loan repayment

Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)

Scholarship program pays tuition, fees, and a monthly living stipend for nursing students who agree to work in a shortage area after graduation. Loan repayment pays up to 85% of nursing education debt.

Full scholarship or up to 85% loan repayment

Department of Energy (DOE)

Trains workers to perform home energy audits, insulation, air sealing, and other weatherization work. Includes technical training, certification prep, and job placement support.

Free weatherization technician training

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Provides free training in environmental remediation, hazardous waste management, and related fields. Graduates earn industry certifications and get job placement assistance.

Free environmental job training + certifications

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)

Helps manufacturers develop workforce skills in areas like lean manufacturing, quality systems, cybersecurity, and technology adoption. Also connects companies with apprenticeship programs.

Subsidized workforce training for manufacturers

California ETP

Reimburses employers for the cost of training their employees in job-related skills. Covers both classroom and hands-on training.

$800-$2,000 per trainee reimbursement to employer

California Employment Development Department (EDD)

California's one-stop job search platform that also connects you to WIOA-funded training, career counseling, resume help, and workshops through local America's Job Centers of California.

Free career services + access to training vouchers

New York Department of Labor

Provides career counseling, job training, and placement services through Career Centers across the state. Includes on-the-job training, customized training, and Individual Training Accounts.

$3,000-$7,000 training voucher

New York Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC)

Covers tuition at SUNY and CUNY schools after other grants and scholarships are applied. This is a last-dollar scholarship, so it fills the gap between what you already get and tuition.

Up to $7,070/year (covers remaining SUNY/CUNY tuition)

Texas Workforce Commission

Grants to community colleges that partner with employers to create customized job training. Workers get trained for free; the state pays the college.

Free customized training (grants up to $500,000 to colleges)

CareerSource Florida

Provides career counseling, training scholarships (Individual Training Accounts), on-the-job training, and job placement through 24 local workforce boards across Florida.

$3,000-$8,000 training scholarship

CareerSource Florida

Provides grants to companies to train new or existing workers. Training is designed by the company and delivered by a state college, university, or approved trainer.

Up to $1,000,000 in training grants for companies

Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development

Reimburses employers for the cost of training employees. Covers classroom training, online courses, on-the-job training, and certification programs.

Up to $250,000 per employer for training costs

Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity

Awards grants to employers to train workers in high-demand fields. Covers classroom training, on-the-job training, and registered apprenticeships.

Up to $3,000 per trainee

Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential

Pays tuition at Michigan community colleges for an associate degree or skills certificate. It is a last-dollar program that covers tuition after Pell Grants and other aid.

Free community college tuition

Tennessee Higher Education Commission

Covers tuition and mandatory fees at Tennessee community colleges and colleges of applied technology. It is a last-dollar grant covering what Pell and other aid do not.

Free community college tuition

Virginia Community College System (VCCS)

Covers up to two-thirds of the cost of short-term workforce training programs at Virginia community colleges. You pay one-third or less.

Pay only 1/3 of training cost (average savings $2,000-$5,000)

Virginia Community College System (VCCS)

Covers remaining tuition and fees at Virginia community colleges after other financial aid is applied. Also provides wraparound support like childcare, transportation, and textbook assistance.

Free tuition + support services for qualifying students

Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission

Provides free tuition and support services for short-term training programs and associate degrees at Oregon community colleges in high-demand fields.

Free community college tuition + support services

Indiana Department of Workforce Development

The Workforce Ready Grant pays for certificate programs at participating schools. The Employer Training Grant reimburses employers for training costs. Both target high-demand industries.

Free certificate training or up to $5,000 per employee for employers

Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges

Covers tuition at Washington community and technical colleges for people retraining after a job loss. Can be used for degrees, certificates, or basic skills training.

Free tuition at Washington community colleges

Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade

Provides grants through community colleges to train workers for new jobs at expanding companies. Training is customized to the company's needs.

Up to $1,200 per trainee

European Commission / Member State Managing Authorities

Funds job training, education, and employment support programs across the EU. You access it through local programs it funds, not directly. Covers skills training, work placements, and employment services.

Free training programs (funded through local providers)

European Commission

Funds mobility (studying or training abroad), partnerships between training organizations, and digital education projects. As a learner, you can train in another EU country with expenses covered.

Funded training abroad (travel, accommodation, daily allowance)

European Commission / Member States

Funds personalized support for displaced workers including job search help, training, entrepreneurship coaching, and allowances. Each case is tailored to the specific layoff situation.

Free retraining and job search support (varies by case)

European Commission

Funds advanced digital skills training in areas like AI, cybersecurity, high-performance computing, and data analytics. Creates short courses and master programs at participating institutions.

Free or subsidized advanced digital skills courses

European Commission (recommendation to member states)

The EU recommends that member states create personal training accounts for all working-age adults. Where implemented, you get an annual budget for approved training of your choice.

Varies by country (where implemented)

European Commission

Industry-wide partnerships where companies commit to upskilling and reskilling their workers. The EU provides guidance, networking, and co-funding opportunities.

Free training through employer participation

European Commission / European Labour Authority

Provides financial support for relocating to work in another EU country, including interview travel costs, relocation allowance, and language training. Also helps employers recruit cross-border.

Up to EUR 1,200 relocation allowance + language course

Department for Education

Free flexible training courses lasting up to 16 weeks in areas like software development, data analytics, cybersecurity, green skills, and HGV driving. Includes a guaranteed interview with an employer.

Free skills course (government funds 70-100% of cost)

Department for Education

Gives you access to over 400 free Level 3 qualifications (diplomas and certificates) in high-demand areas. Courses are offered by colleges and training providers across England.

Free Level 3 qualification (worth GBP 1,000-4,000)

Department for Education / ESFA

Pays for all apprenticeship training and assessment costs. Apprentices earn a wage while training and work towards qualifications from Level 2 (GCSE equivalent) up to Level 7 (master's equivalent).

Free training (up to GBP 27,000 per apprentice) + salary

Student Loans Company

A loan (similar to student loans) that covers the cost of courses at approved colleges. You only start repaying when you earn over the repayment threshold. The loan is written off after 30 years.

Loan covering full course fees (GBP 300-10,000+)

Department for Education / Mayoral Combined Authorities

Funds a wide range of adult education including basic skills (English, maths, digital), vocational courses, and community learning. Available at colleges, local authority providers, and training organizations.

Free or subsidized courses depending on circumstances

Bundesagentur fur Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency)

The employment agency pays 15-100% of training costs (more for smaller companies) and can subsidize your wages during training. Covers courses lasting more than 120 hours that lead to recognized qualifications.

Up to 100% of training costs + wage subsidy for small companies

Bundesagentur fur Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency)

A voucher that covers the full cost of approved training courses, including tuition, travel, childcare, and accommodation if needed. You continue receiving unemployment benefits during training.

Full cost of training (typically EUR 5,000-15,000)

Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)

Covers up to 75% of course and exam fees (50% grant, 50% interest-free loan that is 50% forgiven on passing). Also provides a monthly living allowance for full-time students with dependents.

Up to EUR 15,000 for course fees (most as grant) + living allowance

Bundesagentur fur Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency)

An additional monthly payment of EUR 150 on top of your regular benefits while you are in an approved training program. Meant to offset the extra costs of training and incentivize participation.

EUR 150/month bonus during training

Caisse des Depots

A personal training account with EUR 500 credited each year (EUR 800 for low-qualified workers), up to EUR 5,000 (or EUR 8,000). You choose from thousands of approved courses, certifications, and driving licenses.

EUR 500/year accumulating up to EUR 5,000-8,000

France Travail

Provides career counseling, job search support, and funded training for the unemployed. Can issue training vouchers (AIF) to cover costs not paid by CPF. Also provides income support during training.

Free training + income support while unemployed

OPCO (Skills Operators)

Lets you alternate between work and training (similar to an apprenticeship) while keeping your employment contract and salary. Training costs are covered by your company's OPCO.

Free training while maintaining your salary

Transitions Pro (regional commissions)

Pays for a long training program to completely change your career while you take a leave of absence from work. Covers tuition, and you continue to receive your salary (or most of it) during training.

Full training costs + salary maintenance during career change

Sectoral Training Funds (various)

Sector-specific training funds pay for courses, certifications, and career development for workers in that sector. What is covered depends on your sector's fund.

EUR 500-5,000 per year for training (varies by sector)

UWV (Employee Insurance Agency)

UWV can fund training courses for unemployed people if the training leads to a job in a sector with good prospects. You continue receiving benefits while training.

Free training + continued benefits

Skillnet Ireland

Heavily subsidized training programs run by 70+ industry-led networks across Ireland. Covers everything from short courses to degree programs. The government co-funds the training alongside employer contributions.

Training at 30-50% of market cost

Higher Education Authority (HEA)

Free or heavily subsidized higher education courses (certificates, diplomas, degrees) in areas with skills shortages. Courses are part-time and designed for people who want to upskill or change careers.

Free or 90% funded courses (worth EUR 3,000-10,000)

SOLAS / Education and Training Boards (ETBs)

Provides free training through local Education and Training Boards, including apprenticeships, traineeships, specific skills training, and community training. You can keep your social welfare payments while training.

Free training + training allowance (for unemployed)

SEPE (Servicio Publico de Empleo Estatal)

Free vocational training leading to official certificates of professionalism recognized across Spain. Covers practical training and includes a work placement component.

Free certified vocational training

FUNDAE

Companies get an annual training credit that they can use to train their employees. They organize the training and then claim the cost back through reduced social security payments.

EUR 420-13,000+ annual training credit per company

Red.es / Ministry of Economic Affairs

A digital voucher for small businesses to adopt digital solutions including websites, e-commerce, social media, cybersecurity, and business management software. Includes training on using these tools.

EUR 2,000-12,000 digital voucher depending on company size

ANPAL (National Agency for Active Labour Policies)

The government reimburses companies for the salary costs of workers during training hours. Companies can dedicate up to 250 hours per worker to training without bearing the labor cost.

Full wage reimbursement during training hours

ANPAL / Regional employment agencies

A comprehensive employability program that provides personalized pathways including upskilling, reskilling, career counseling, and job placement. Each person gets one of 5 pathways based on their needs.

Free personalized training and employment pathway

Various interprofessional funds

Companies use their accumulated fund balance to finance employee training. Covers technical skills, digital skills, languages, and management training. Individual workers can also access training through voucher mechanisms.

EUR 500-3,000 per worker for training

CSN (Swedish Board of Student Finance)

Provides generous income support (up to 80% of your salary, capped) while you take time off from work to study and change careers. Much more generous than regular student aid.

Up to SEK 21,000/month (80% of salary) for up to 44 weeks

Swedish municipalities

Free adult education at upper secondary level, including vocational training (yrkesvux) in healthcare, IT, construction, and other fields. Also offers SFI (Swedish for immigrants) and basic education.

Free education (eligible for student aid through CSN)

Swedish National Agency for Higher Vocational Education (MYH)

Free post-secondary vocational programs lasting 1-3 years in fields like IT, business, healthcare, and engineering. Includes a mandatory workplace learning component (LIA).

Free education (eligible for student aid through CSN)

AMS (Arbeitsmarktservice)

Take unpaid leave from work for 2-12 months to study or train, and receive Weiterbildungsgeld (further training allowance) from AMS equal to your unemployment benefit rate.

EUR 900-1,400/month allowance during educational leave

AMS (Arbeitsmarktservice)

Funds a wide range of training programs from short courses to multi-month qualifications. You receive a training allowance during participation and continue receiving unemployment benefits.

Free training + unemployment benefits continue

Flemish/Walloon/Brussels regional governments

Your employer gives you paid time off to attend approved training courses. You keep your salary, and the employer is reimbursed by the government. Up to 125 hours per year.

Up to 125 hours of paid leave for training per year

VDAB (Flemish Employment Service)

Provides free vocational training, career counseling, and job placement in Flanders. Offers classroom training, workplace learning, and online courses in dozens of sectors.

Free training + travel and childcare allowance for unemployed

Danish Ministry of Employment

Short, practical training courses focused on specific job skills. Workers get VEU allowance (wage compensation) from the government while attending. Employers can also claim compensation.

Free or low-cost courses + wage compensation

Sectoral social partners

Funds training and education for workers in the sector. Can cover course fees, materials, and sometimes salary during training. The specifics depend on your sector's collective agreement.

EUR 1,000-3,000 per year for training

TE Office (Tyomarkkinat)

Provides career counseling, training courses, wage subsidies, and startup support for the unemployed. Training can include vocational courses, self-motivated training with benefits, and labor market training.

Free training + unemployment benefits during training

Powiatowe Urzedy Pracy (District Labor Offices)

Reimburses employers for up to 80% of training costs (100% for micro-enterprises with up to 10 employees). Covers courses, exams, and postgraduate studies.

Up to PLN 14,000 (approx. EUR 3,200) per worker per year

ANQEP (National Agency for Qualification and Vocational Education)

Free career guidance, recognition of prior learning (so you can get a diploma for skills learned through work), and referrals to training programs. Helps adults get formal qualifications.

Free qualification recognition and career guidance

IEFP (Institute of Employment and Vocational Training)

Provides free vocational training courses, apprenticeships, and internship programs. Unemployed participants receive a training allowance and transportation support.

Free training + monthly allowance for unemployed participants

ANOFM (National Agency for Employment)

Provides free qualification and requalification courses, career counseling, job placement, and mobility support. Unemployed participants receive their unemployment benefit during training.

Free training + unemployment benefits continue

Walmart (in partnership with Guild)

100% of tuition and books for college degrees, high-school completion, English-language learning, and short-form skill certificates from a curated list of accredited partner schools.

$1/day to associate (Walmart pays the rest)

Amazon

Pre-paid tuition for bachelor's and associate's degrees, high-school completion, GED, ESL proficiency certifications, and industry certifications at participating schools.

Up to ~$5,250/year tuition + fees + books

Target (in partnership with Guild)

Debt-free education at over 250 partner schools, including undergraduate degrees, certifications, English-language learning, and high-school completion. Up to $10,000/year for select master's degrees.

100% paid tuition at partner schools

Starbucks (in partnership with Arizona State University)

100% upfront tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor's degree through Arizona State University's online program. Choose from 100+ ASU online undergraduate degrees.

Full bachelor's degree, no out-of-pocket cost

The Walt Disney Company (in partnership with Guild)

100% upfront tuition for high-school completion, English-language learning, certifications, associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees from partner schools. Books and fees also covered.

100% paid tuition + books + fees

McDonald's USA

Tuition assistance for college, high-school completion, English-language tutoring, education advising, and career planning support.

Up to $2,500/year (crew); $3,000/year (managers)

Chipotle Mexican Grill (in partnership with Guild)

Debt-free degrees in business, technology, and agriculture from partner universities. Also covers GED, ESL, and skill certificates.

100% paid tuition at partner schools (or $5,250/year reimbursement at non-partners)

Best Buy

Reimbursement for tuition, fees, and required textbooks for job-related courses at accredited institutions.

Up to $3,500/year (full-time); $2,500/year (part-time)

The Home Depot

Tuition, books, and fees for job-related coursework at accredited institutions; varies for full-time, part-time, and salaried roles.

Up to $5,000/yr (salaried); $3,000/yr (full-time hourly); $1,500/yr (part-time)

UPS

Tuition assistance toward college, paid alongside competitive part-time wages and benefits.

Up to $5,250/year (lifetime cap typically $25,000)

FedEx

Reimbursement for tuition, fees, and books for accredited degree programs and certain professional certifications.

Up to $5,250/year (varies by op-co)

Verizon

Tuition, fees, and books for approved courses and degree programs at accredited institutions.

Up to $8,000/year (full-time); $4,000/year (part-time)

AT&T

Reimbursement for tuition, fees, and books for approved coursework. Also runs AT&T University, an internal training and upskilling platform.

Up to $5,250/yr (undergrad); higher for graduate

JPMorgan Chase

Reimbursement for job-related coursework, degrees, and select certifications at accredited institutions.

Up to $5,250/year

Bank of America

Reimbursement for job-related courses, degrees, and certifications at accredited institutions.

Up to $5,250/year

Wells Fargo

Reimbursement for tuition, fees, and books for job-related courses and degrees.

Up to $5,000/year

Microsoft

Reimbursement for job-related degrees, courses, and professional certifications at accredited institutions.

Up to $10,000/year (subject to internal policy)

Google (Alphabet)

Reimbursement for job-related coursework, degree programs, and continuing education at accredited institutions.

Up to $12,000/year (commonly cited; verify with HR)

Apple

Reimbursement for job-related courses, degrees, and certifications at accredited institutions.

Up to $5,000/year (varies by role)

Meta Platforms

Reimbursement for tuition and fees for job-related coursework, degrees, and certifications at accredited institutions.

Up to $5,250/year (subject to current policy)

Tesla

Tuition reimbursement for job-related coursework and certain student loan repayment assistance.

Up to $5,250/year (verify current cap)

Boeing

100% upfront tuition coverage for approved degrees and certificates from partner schools — known for being one of the most generous in industry.

100% tuition + books at partner schools

Lockheed Martin

Reimbursement for tuition, fees, and books for job-related degree programs, including STEM master's and PhD programs.

Often unlimited for approved STEM coursework (verify policy)

CVS Health

Reimbursement for job-related coursework, degrees, and pharmacy/healthcare certifications at accredited institutions.

Up to $3,000/year (full-time); $1,500/year (part-time)

Chick-fil-A

Scholarships for use at any accredited institution — does not require staying at Chick-fil-A after graduation.

$2,500 standard; up to $25,000 (True Inspiration Scholarship)

Google (delivered via Coursera)

Self-paced online certificate programs in IT Support, Data Analytics, Project Management, UX Design, Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, Android Development, and more. Recognized by 150+ US employers.

$49/month Coursera fee (typically 3-6 months); financial aid available

Amazon Web Services

Free 12-week, full-time, classroom-based training in cloud computing fundamentals. Includes AWS Cloud Practitioner certification voucher and connections to employer partners for job placement.

Free training + cert voucher + job placement support

IBM

Free self-paced courses and credentials in AI, cybersecurity, data, cloud, software engineering, and workplace skills. Includes IBM-issued digital badges recognized by employers.

100% free courses and digital badges

Microsoft

Free self-paced learning paths and modules covering Azure, Microsoft 365, Power Platform, Dynamics 365, AI, and security. Microsoft Certifications (e.g. AZ-900, AI-900) require a separate paid exam.

Free learning; cert exams typically $99-$165

Cisco

Free and low-cost courses in networking (CCNA prep), cybersecurity, IoT, programming (Python), and Linux. Some courses lead to Cisco certifications (paid exam separately).

Mostly free courses; CCNA exam ~$300

Apple (with university partners)

Free 9-12 month full-time program in iOS app development, design, business, and entrepreneurship. Apple-issued certificate of completion.

Free tuition (some sites offer stipends)

Salesforce

Free self-paced learning paths and badges covering Salesforce Admin, Developer, Marketer, and Architect tracks. Salesforce Certifications (e.g. Admin, Platform Developer) require a separate paid exam.

Free learning; cert exams typically $200

The Linux Foundation

Free intro courses (Intro to Linux, Intro to Kubernetes) and paid advanced training plus widely-recognized certifications in Linux, Kubernetes, cloud-native, and open-source tooling.

Many free courses; cert bundles typically $300-$600

Meta (delivered via Coursera)

Self-paced online certificates in Front-End Developer, Back-End Developer, iOS Developer, Android Developer, Database Engineer, and Data Analyst. Includes hands-on projects.

$49/month Coursera fee (typically 5-7 months)

Coursera

Curated bundle of 35+ entry-level professional certificates from Google, IBM, Meta, Microsoft, Salesforce, and more. Includes job-search tools and employer connections.

$59/month Coursera Plus (access to all certs)

Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO)

Statewide workforce portal connecting you to WIOA-funded training (Individual Training Accounts), Illinois Workforce Innovation Board career programs, and 22 Local Workforce Innovation Areas across the state.

Free career services + ITA training vouchers (~$5,000-$10,000)

Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) / Illinois Community College Board

Earn-and-learn registered apprenticeships (1-5 years) with paid on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and a nationally-recognized credential. State expansion grants subsidize sponsors.

Paid wages during training + free classroom instruction

Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG)

Pays the remaining tuition not covered by HOPE Grant for high-demand trade and tech programs at Georgia technical colleges. Often combined to make tuition free.

Free tuition for high-demand programs

Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) / Technical College System of Georgia

Statewide workforce system delivering WIOA Adult, Dislocated Worker, and Youth services through local WorkSource regions and Georgia Department of Labor career centers.

Free career services + WIOA training vouchers

North Carolina Department of Commerce

Statewide workforce system that delivers WIOA-funded training, career counseling, and employer connections through 80+ NCWorks Career Centers.

Free career services + ITA training vouchers (~$5,000)

NC Department of Commerce / NC Community College System

Emergency financial aid (up to $1,000) to cover unexpected expenses like car repairs, childcare, medical bills, or housing — so students can finish their credential.

Up to $1,000 emergency grant

Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry

Statewide workforce system delivering WIOA training, career counseling, and job-matching through 60+ PA CareerLink centers and 22 Local Workforce Development Areas.

Free career services + ITA training vouchers

PA Department of Community & Economic Development

Reimburses employers for training their existing workers in essential and advanced technology skills, including IT certifications, manufacturing skills, and process improvement.

Up to $2,000 per worker for advanced tech; $450 per worker for essential skills

Ohio Department of Development

Reimburses employers up to $2,000 per credential earned by an employee. Covers 1,000+ approved tech/credential programs.

Up to $2,000 per credential, max $30,000 per employer per round

Ohio Department of Job & Family Services

Statewide workforce portal delivering WIOA training, career counseling, and job-matching through 88 county OhioMeansJobs centers.

Free career services + WIOA training vouchers

NJ Department of Labor & Workforce Development (NJDOL)

NJDOL's workforce platform delivering WIOA-funded training, career navigation, and Pathways to Recovery scholarship-based training in high-growth occupations.

Free career services + training vouchers up to $4,000+

NJ Department of Labor & Workforce Development

Promotes and supports registered apprenticeships statewide with paid on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and nationally-recognized credentials. Employers may claim a tax credit of $1,000+ per apprentice.

Paid wages during training + tax credit for employers

Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES)

Statewide workforce system delivering WIOA-funded training, career counseling, and job placement through 13 local workforce areas and 40+ Arizona@Work job centers.

Free career services + ITA training vouchers

Arizona Commerce Authority / Department of Economic Security

Connects workers to registered apprenticeships across Arizona with paid on-the-job training, related instruction, and nationally-recognized credentials. State grants help expand sponsor capacity.

Paid wages during training + free classroom instruction

State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SEFRI/SBFI)

Refund of up to 50% of preparation course fees for federal professional examinations after taking the exam, regardless of pass/fail.

Up to CHF 9,500 (Berufsprüfung) or CHF 10,500 (Höhere Fachprüfung)

Cantonal vocational training offices (e.g. Geneva CFP, Zürich Berufsbildungsfonds)

Vouchers/cofinancing toward language, IT, and basic-skills courses with approved providers. Programs and amounts differ widely between cantons — check your canton of residence.

CHF 500-3,000 per voucher (canton-dependent)

Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV)

Free short labour-market training (typically 3-10 months) in occupations with strong demand. Participants typically keep unemployment benefits or receive an attendance allowance during training.

Free training + unemployment benefits or attendance allowance

Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen)

Subsidized state loans plus grants for tuition (where charged) and living expenses. A portion of the loan is converted to grant if you complete your studies.

Up to NOK 137,000/year (loan + grant); additional supplements possible

Public Employment Service (DYPA, formerly OAED)

Vouchers to attend approved training courses in high-demand sectors (digital skills, tourism, green jobs), plus a paid internship and certification exam fees.

€2,000-€2,800 per programme (training + internship allowance)

Ministry of Labour & Social Affairs (Greece) / Special Service for ESF

Subsidised upskilling and reskilling programmes in digital, green, and management skills delivered via approved Lifelong Learning Centres (KE.DI.VI.M.).

Free training + completion allowance (€5/hr typical)

Czech Labour Office (Úřad práce ČR)

Pays for retraining courses at approved providers (drivers' licences, IT, healthcare, trades, languages). Participants may receive a retraining allowance or keep unemployment benefits.

Free training (cap CZK 50,000); allowance up to 60% of avg wage

Czech Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports (MŠMT)

Co-funds employer-led upskilling, digital skills initiatives, and reskilling for workers in transitioning industries through periodic project calls.

Project-based co-funding (varies by call)

National Employment Service (NFSZ)

Subsidised retraining and upskilling courses in market-relevant occupations, plus travel/accommodation support and an attendance allowance during training.

Free training + attendance allowance

Hungarian Ministry of National Economy / EU Cohesion Funds

Co-finances employer training programmes, digital skills upskilling, and reskilling for transitioning workers via periodic ESF+ calls under the 2021-2027 cohesion framework.

40-70% reimbursement of training costs (call-dependent)

Central Office of Labour, Social Affairs and Family (ÚPSVaR)

Pays the full course fee for approved retraining at any accredited provider (RE-PAS), plus travel and accommodation costs. Participants keep their unemployment benefits during training.

Up to €600 per course (RE-PAS); group training paid in full

Slovak Ministry of Investments, Regional Development & Informatisation (MIRRI) / EU Funds

EU-funded ESF+/RRF digital upskilling courses, IT bootcamps, and AI/data literacy training delivered through approved providers.

Free or heavily subsidised training (call-dependent)

Luxembourg National Employment Agency (ADEM)

Free training in market-relevant skills (digital, languages, finance, healthcare) plus career counselling. Participants typically keep their unemployment benefits during training.

Free training + unemployment benefits during course

Institut national pour le développement de la formation professionnelle continue (INFPC)

Reimburses 15% of approved training investments to the employer, including course fees, internal trainer salaries, and trainee wages during training time.

15% of total annual training investment (capped at 20% of payroll)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

20% of the first $10,000 of qualified tuition and required fees paid during the year. Unlimited number of years (unlike AOTC). Non-refundable — reduces tax owed but no refund beyond zero.

Up to $2,000 per tax return per year

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

100% of the first $2,000 + 25% of the next $2,000 of qualified expenses (tuition, required fees, course materials). Up to 40% refundable — you can get up to $1,000 back even if you owe no tax.

Up to $2,500 per eligible student per year

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

Tax-free reimbursement from your employer for tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment for any education (job-related not required). Through 2025 also covers student loan repayment.

Up to $5,250/year tax-free per employee

IRS / state-administered Qualified Tuition Programs

Tax-advantaged savings for qualified education expenses including post-secondary tuition, certain apprenticeship programs (registered with DOL), up to $10,000 lifetime in student loan repayment, and K-12 tuition (limited). Investment growth is federal-tax-free if used for qualified expenses.

Federal-tax-free investment growth + possible state-tax deductions

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

Above-the-line deduction for student loan interest — you don't need to itemize. Reduces your taxable income.

Up to $2,500/year deduction

European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT)

Pledge-based ecosystem of free and subsidised deep-tech courses delivered by EIT Knowledge & Innovation Communities (EIT Digital, EIT Manufacturing, EIT InnoEnergy, etc.) and partner universities/companies. Goal: 1 million deep-tech professionals trained by 2025.

Free or heavily-subsidised courses + EIT-issued credentials

European Commission / Research Executive Agency (REA)

Funded research mobility programmes including Doctoral Networks (PhDs), Postdoctoral Fellowships, Staff Exchanges, and COFUND (regional/institutional doctoral programmes). Covers salary, mobility allowance, family allowance, research costs.

€3,000-€5,000+/month gross salary + allowances (typically 1-3 years)

European Commission / National Managing Authorities

Co-finances reskilling, upskilling, and active job-search support for workers transitioning out of fossil-fuel and carbon-intensive jobs. Implemented locally — exact programmes differ by region.

Free training + job-placement support (varies by region)

European Commission / National Agencies

Funded volunteering placements (2-12 months), solidarity projects, and traineeships/jobs across Europe. Covers travel, accommodation, food, insurance, language support, and a monthly pocket-money allowance.

All costs + €100-€155/month allowance (volunteering)

SHRM Foundation (Society for Human Resource Management)

Scholarships for SHRM-CP / SHRM-SCP certification fees and prep, plus undergraduate and graduate tuition awards for students pursuing HR-related degrees.

$1,000-$5,000 per award; certification scholarships cover full exam fees

PMI Educational Foundation (Project Management Institute)

Scholarships for PMP, CAPM, and other PMI certification exam fees, plus graduate-level project management tuition awards.

$1,000-$10,000 per award (program-dependent)

AICPA Foundation (American Institute of CPAs)

Scholarship awards for tuition, books, and fees toward accounting degrees. Some scholarships also fund CPA exam preparation.

$3,000-$12,000 per academic year (program-dependent)

IEEE Foundation (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)

Member scholarships, society-specific awards (Computer Society, Power & Energy Society, etc.), and grants for educational programs in electrical/electronics/computing engineering.

$1,000-$10,000 per award (program-dependent)

Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)

Travel grants for computing research conferences, free/discounted student membership, mentoring, and competitive student scholarships across SIGs.

$500-$2,000 travel grants; free/heavily-discounted student membership

Center for Cyber Safety and Education ((ISC)² Foundation)

Scholarship awards toward cybersecurity tuition and certification fees ((ISC)² CISSP, SSCP, CC, CCSP, etc.). Includes mentoring and exam vouchers.

$1,000-$5,000 + cert exam vouchers

SEMI Foundation (Semiconductor Industry Association)

Free workforce-development programs including High Tech U (HS students), Veterans Programs, semiconductor apprenticeships, and scholarships for technical college students entering the chip industry.

Free programs + scholarships ($1,000-$5,000)

The Linux Foundation

Free Linux Foundation training course (e.g. Kubernetes Administrator prep, Linux System Admin) plus a free certification exam attempt (CKA, CKAD, LFCS, LFCT, etc.) — typically a $300-$600 value.

Free LF course + free certification exam

Amazon Web Services (in partnership with Udacity)

Free entry into a foundational AWS x Udacity course; top performers receive a full scholarship to a follow-on Cloud / Machine Learning / AI Nanodegree (~$1,000+ value).

Free foundations course; ~$1,000+ Nanodegree (selective)

Creating IT Futures (CompTIA-affiliated)

Free or heavily-subsidised CompTIA cert prep training plus voucher(s) for certification exams. Some programs include job-placement support.

Free training + cert exam vouchers ($300+ each)