Tuition Help

Most of our workforce students are eligible to receive some type of tuition assistance based on the course selected and the funding assistance requirements. Required criteria for funding may be based on income, location, the type of course offered, or other factors. Funding resources change often, so we may offer other types of financial assistance programs in addition to those shown here.

Please reach out to the Workforce staff for more information at 276-964-7562, email adrianna.culbertson@sw.edu, or drop by Tazewell Hall, T-124 on SWCC’s campus.

FastForward | Credentials for a Career that Matters

FastForward is the most affordable, achievable option in higher education in Virginia. We’ll help you complete training and earn credentials in weeks – not years

FastForward is a program helping Virginians get the high-demand jobs they want and the salaries they need. FastForward programs are short-term training courses offered through Virginia’s Community Colleges to help you fast-track your career.

Pay only 1/3 of the class tuition for FastForward classes!

More about your FastForward options.

In addition to the funding assistance provided through the FastForward model, prospective students may qualify for the funding programs detailed below.

• Learn More About G3
• Learn More About FANTIC
• Learn More About VAReady Scholars

Employers or organizations may sponsor a student for FastForward programs or other courses offered through Workforce Services. To initiate sponsored funding, call 276-964-7244.

Workforce Credentials Grant

You may be eligible for WCG financial assistance that will cover two-thirds of the tuition cost of your credential training.

Fast Track Credential-Based Training

The Workforce Credentials Grant is designed to ensure that workforce credentials are accessible and affordable for Virginians seeking the skills they need to obtain good-paying jobs in high-demand fields. Students enrolling in one of the workforce credential training programs covered by the grant-eligible program will pay only 1/3 of the normal cost. The maximum value of each grant is $3,000.

Student Requirements to Receive WCG Tuition Assistance

1. Sign the WCG Release Form when registering for the class if 18 years or older. If under 18, a parent or guardian must complete the release form.
2. Provide the full social security number when enrolling in the class.
3. Must be 18 years of age or older.
4. Pay 1/3 the cost of the course. A Virginia “domicile” is required in order to receive the discount.
5. Complete the course earning an “S” grade within 30 days of the course end date. (If the course is not completed with an “S” grade, pay an additional 1/3 of the total course cost.)
6. Seek applicable credential or licensure associated with the program, whether it is incorporated into the program cost or requires obtaining the certification at an additional cost.

Download WCG Student Policies (pdf)

FANTIC

FANTIC (Financial Aid for Non-Credit Training Leading to Industry-Recognized Credentials) provides funding for students who demonstrate financial need and are enrolled in an approved noncredit workforce training program leading to the attainment of an industry-recognized credential or licensure.

Certification Programs Eligible for Financial Aid Assistance:

Grant assistance is based on the availability of funds.