Funding
My Pell Grant Story: The Role of Federal Aid in Expanding College Access
For millions of students, going to college is not only about earning admission; it is also about being able to afford the full cost of attendance. Tuition, housing, food, textbooks, transportation, and other daily expenses can make higher education feel out of reach, especially for students from low-income and middle-income families. Federal aid programs such as the Pell Grant and Federal Work-Study help reduce these financial barriers by making college more accessible and manageable.
What Is Work-Based Learning at Community Colleges?
Defining work-based learning is essential for community colleges to improve and measure WBL opportunities.
Don’t Miss These Grant Opportunities for Community Colleges This Fall!
At ACCT, we are committed to helping community colleges identify funding opportunities that advance institutional goals and support the students and communities they serve. Building on our previous blog, this update highlights four upcoming federal grant opportunities that may be especially relevant to community colleges and their partners.
New Accountability Rules Now in Effect: STATS and Workforce Pell
As of July 1, 2026, many of the higher education provisions found in H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, came into effect. Among these provisions are the accountability rules finalized by the Department of Education for degree and certificate programs and, separately, Workforce Pell programs.
What Really Works to Support Rural Community Colleges?
Learn about new research focused on what’s working at rural community colleges, from dual enrollment and workforce alignment to student pathways and nursing programs. Join the conversation at the 2026 ACCT Leadership Congress and help shape future research on rural higher education.
Community College Advocacy Continues All Year Round: Invite Your Member of Congress to Meet Back Home!
During the August recess, congressional lawmakers return to their home states and districts to engage with their constituents and to pitch the many accomplishments they have made throughout the congressional session. In turn, community college leaders have an optimal opportunity to establish, strengthen, or renew relationships with the lawmakers that represent their campuses and advocate for community college legislative priorities.
