How to Use Your FAFSA for Vocational Training & Trades

Navigating the FAFSA for Trade School

Many students assume the FAFSA is only for "traditional" college. Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) of 2026, the process for vocational students has been streamlined. Here is your checklist.

1. Get your FSA ID early

Don't wait until the last minute. Create your ID at studentaid.gov at least a week before you plan to submit.

2. Search for the Provider Code

Even if the school isn't a university, it will have a 6-digit federal school code if it's eligible for Workforce Pell. You can find these on our school profile pages.

3. Review your SAR

Your Student Aid Report (SAR) will tell you your eligibility index, which determines the exact dollar amount of your grant.