Helping adult learners pursue high-demand careers in Missouri

The Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) has officially opened the 2025–2026 application for the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant—a powerful financial aid resource for Missouri adults looking to gain skills for in-demand careers.

Whether you’re returning to school, changing careers, or finishing a degree that was previously on hold, Fast Track may be the support you need to make it happen.

What is Fast Track?

The Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant is a state-funded program designed to support adult learners (typically age 25 and older or independent students) who are pursuing education and training in high-demand fields. Eligible students can receive funding to cover tuition and fees that aren’t already met by other financial aid sources. The grant is available for eligible credit-bearing programs, non-credit workforce training, and apprenticeships.

Fast Track helps Missourians:

• Pursue degrees, certificates, or credentials in high-demand industries such as healthcare, IT, manufacturing, skilled trades, and education.
• Access financial aid that can fully cover the remaining cost of tuition and fees after other aid is applied.
• Remain in Missouri and contribute to the workforce. After completing their program, recipients agree to work full-time in the state for at least three years.

How to Apply for the 2025–2026 Award Year

The application is now live through the State Financial Aid Portal hosted by MDHEWD. Here’s how students can apply:

1. Create or log into your State Financial Aid Portal account:
   MDHEWD Student Portal
2. Select the “Estimate Eligibility” tab.
3. Choose the 2025–2026 academic year.
4. Find the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant in the table and click “Apply.”

Be sure to complete all required fields and upload any supporting documentation. Students must apply each year they wish to receive the grant.

Eligibility Highlights

To qualify, students must:

• Be Missouri residents.
• Be at least 25 years old, or if under 25, be considered independent for federal financial aid purposes.
• Not have earned a bachelor’s degree.
• Be enrolled in an approved program or training area.
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
• Agree to work full-time in Missouri for at least three years after program completion.

Need Help?

For more information on eligibility and how Missouri State students can make the most of this opportunity, check out:

• Fast Track: Information for Students
• Fast Track: Information for Educational Partners

Still have questions? Contact MDHEWD directly at 800-473-6757 (option 4) or reach out to our office at FinancialAid@MissouriState.edu.

Take the Fast Track to Your Future.

This is your opportunity to upskill, retool, and build a stronger career path—without the weight of financial barriers. Apply today and move your goals forward with the support of the Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant.