What training costs, and who pays.

1. Apprenticeship: you get paid

   Apprenticeships are paid jobs. Training is usually paid for by the employer or the union program, though some charge application or book fees.

2. Trade school or college: you pay

   Certificates and degrees cost tuition and fees. Financial aid and grants can lower the cost.

3. Short certifications: smaller fees

   Many safety cards and entry certifications take days or weeks. Fees vary, and employers sometimes cover them.

1. 01

   Skills training (non-credit): start here

   Short, job-focused classes such as safety, welding, maintenance, and truck driving. You just sign up for a class: no college application, no transcripts, and no college credit. Classes vary by campus.

   • Browse skills training
   • How skills training works
2. 02

   Academic (for credit)

   Certificates and degrees that earn college credit. You apply to the college, file the FAFSA, and send your transcripts.

   • Apply to Ivy Tech
   • FAFSA

1. FAFSA

   The federal financial aid form. It applies to the academic (for-credit) path, not to non-credit skills training or apprenticeships.

   • Fill out the FAFSA

2. Workforce Ready Grant (Next Level Jobs)

   Can cover tuition for approved certificates for eligible Indiana residents. It is limited for 2026–27: Ivy Tech notes that first-time dependent students are not eligible this year. Confirm your eligibility before enrolling.

   • Workforce Ready Grant
   • Ivy Tech Next Level Jobs

3. WorkOne

   A WorkOne advisor can review other funding options with you.

   • Find your WorkOne

Costs and rules change. Confirm the full cost and your eligibility with the provider before paying or enrolling.