The fastest way out of a low-wage rut is a free credential employers actually hire for — and you don’t have to go into debt to get one. This 2027 guide lists the education benefits open to San Antonio students and job seekers: the Federal Pell Grant and Texas TEXAS Grant for college costs (free money you don’t pay back), plus free career training through Workforce Solutions Alamo. Each entry includes who qualifies and the exact first step. For a personalized recommendation, try our free Apply for Me program.
2026–27 Pell and FY2027 TEXAS Grant maximums are official and shown below. 2027–28 Pell and FY2028 TEXAS Grant figures aren’t published yet — labeled pending.
| Federal Pell Grant | FREE federal money for college, career school, or trade school — up to $7,395 for the 2026–27 award year (2027–28 maximum pending). You don’t pay it back. There’s no separate application — apply via the FAFSA. | 1-800-433-3243 | Apply |
| TEXAS Grant (Toward EXcellence, Access, and Success) | Need-based Texas grant for residents at Texas public universities and health-related institutions. FY2027 maximum: $5,399/semester (FY2028 pending). State priority deadline: January 15 each year. Funding is limited — apply early via FAFSA (or TASFA if FAFSA-ineligible); your school’s aid office determines eligibility. | 888-311-8881 | Apply |
| WIOA Career Services — Workforce Solutions Alamo | FREE career counseling, skills training, and on-the-job training at 16 career centers across the Alamo region — CDL, welding, medical assisting, IT certifications, and more. Start with a free information session (in person or virtual). | 210-438-0581 | Apply |
| Child Care Services (CCS) Scholarships — TWC | Child care scholarships for parents who work or attend school/training — so you can actually finish the program. Apply via the TX3C system. | 1-210-230-6300 | Apply |
At a glance
- College money: Pell Grant up to $7,395 (2026–27; doesn’t have to be paid back) — FAFSA at studentaid.gov.
- Texas universities: TEXAS Grant up to $5,399/semester (FY2027) — priority deadline Jan 15.
- Job training: Free WIOA training (CDL, trades, healthcare, IT) — 210-438-0581, start with an info session.
- Childcare while you train: CCS scholarships — 1-210-230-6300.
Not sure where to start?
Answer a few questions in our free Apply for Me program and we’ll match you to the grants and free training that fit your goals — plus the food, childcare, and cash benefits that carry you while you train.
