Virginia residents who are legally domiciled in the state (meaning Virginia is their true, permanent home for at least 12 months and you intend to stay) may qualify for Workforce Credential Grant (WCG) funding. The classes that could be eligible for this funding are called FastForward classes.
WCG funding is not based on income; eligibility is determined solely by your Virginia domicile. The only additional requirement is that you must be out of high school to participate.
If you qualify for WCG funding, Virginia will cover two-thirds of the cost of an eligible FastForward class, meaning, you are responsible for just one-third of the cost*. For example, if the cost of the program is $4,500, a student would pay one-third, or $1,500, merely by proving domicile!
*Important: As long as you successfully complete your class and sit for the required credential exam, you will not owe any additional costs. However, if you do not successfully complete the class, you will be responsible for paying a second-third of the tuition price.
FastForward credential programs are available in several high-demand career fields, including:
- Computers and Technology
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing and Construction Trades
- Transportation and Logistics
Virginia employers – great news! You can take advantage of supporting your employee using this funding too and only having to pay the one-third price!
While this is a significant discount, we understand that training costs may still be a barrier. If you are eligible for WGC funds, you may also qualify for additional tuition assistance through programs called G3 or FANTIC. These programs can potentially cover your remaining one-third balance—making your training completely free.
Unlike WCG funds, G3 and FANTIC are income-based programs, so you will need to review the income eligibility chart below to determine if you qualify (based on your household size).
| # of Persons in Your Household | FANTIC / G3 Income Threshold |
|---|---|
| 1 | $63,840.00 |
| 2 | $86,560.00 |
| 3 | $109,280.00 |
| 4 | $132,000.00 |
| 5 | $154,720.00 |
| 6 | $177,440.00 |
| 7 | $200,160.00 |
| 8 | $222,880.00 |
| 9 | $245,600.00 |
| 10 | $268,320.00 |
Next Steps
Your next step is to complete the online Financial Aid Eligibility application.* This application will determine which funding opportunities you qualify for.
- Be prepared to submit documentation to verify your (or your parent’s information if under 24 years old) domicile and/or income.
- Even if you are only proving domicile, you still need to complete the questions on the application about your domicile.
- All funding is subject to change based on availability.
FastForward Frequently Asked Questions
FastForward credential programs are offered in the following high-demand career fields in Virginia:
- Computers and Technology
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing and Construction Trades
- Transportation and Logistics