UPSKILL Mississippi Grant

UPSKILL was created in 2026 and begins as a 2026–27 pilot for adults training in Mississippi priority sectors. Students pursue a certificate or associate degree at a participating community college, not a general university degree. The program combines tuition aid with success coaching, career planning, and a connection to Mississippi Works.

Applicants must be at least 24, hold a diploma or GED, be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and have lived legally in Mississippi for two years before applying. At least half-time enrollment in an eligible program is required. The college must verify that the credential appears on the current list of approved occupations, which may change with state workforce priorities.

The award covers remaining tuition and required fees after other grant aid and adds a $500 annual stipend prorated by term and enrollment. There is no fixed duration cap; support lasts only for the time needed to complete one certificate or associate degree. It cannot be combined with another Mississippi state-aid award in the same academic year.

For the pilot, MAAPP is due September 15 and supporting documents, including FAFSA, are due October 15. Public community colleges were invited to participate in the first cohort, but the school still verifies admission, program, and services. File FAFSA and MAAPP, request the residency-document checklist, and confirm that your program appears on the current list before leaving work or taking on costs.

The pilot combines remaining tuition and required fees with a prorated $500 annual stipend; it is not unrestricted cash. Ask the community college which grants it applies first, which charges enter the balance, and when funds arrive. Because other Mississippi state aid cannot be combined in the same year, compare options before choosing.

The credential must lead to priority occupations on the current list. Ask a career adviser to identify the exact occupation and certificate, not just the broad field, and keep that confirmation. The state list may change with workforce needs, so a related course does not automatically qualify.

For 2026–27, MAAPP was due September 15 and FAFSA/supporting documents are due October 15; the first date has passed and the second falls on this review date. If you plan to apply, immediately ask whether the office is still accepting documents and whether your college participates. Do not infer future dates from this pilot; wait for the next official cycle.

Who it serves and what it can cover: UPSKILL was created in 2026 and begins as a 2026–27 pilot for adults training in Mississippi priority sectors. Students pursue a certificate or associate degree at a participating community college, not a general university degree. The program combines tuition aid with success coaching, career planning, and a connection to Mississippi Works. Applicants must be at least 24, hold a diploma or GED, be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and have lived legally in Mississippi for two years before applying. At least half-time enrollment in an eligible program is required. The college must verify that the credential appears on the current list of approved occupations, which may change with state workforce priorities.

How to apply or get help: The award covers remaining tuition and required fees after other grant aid and adds a $500 annual stipend prorated by term and enrollment. There is no fixed duration cap; support lasts only for the time needed to complete one certificate or associate degree. It cannot be combined with another Mississippi state-aid award in the same academic year. For case-specific questions, contact the program or financial-aid office named on its official page.

Official application and program information