FastForward is a short-term workforce credential program to train Virginians for top, in-demand jobs across the Commonwealth. Sometimes the cost of programs that prepare you for these careers can create a financial barrier. Financial assistance is available to subsidize the cost of select pre-approved training programs. Students are required to pay one third the cost of the program with the explicit expectation they will seek and obtain the related credential identified for their program of choice. Failure to complete the class will result in the student’s financial obligation to pay an additional one-third of the cost of the program back to the Commonwealth of Virginia. Funding for this program is limited. The funds are available to Virginia residents who meet Virginia domicile requirements. See list of eligible programs below.

Those that participate in FastForward programs are financially responsible for the first third of the full course cost. If you are financially unable to pay the first third as determined by the predefined set of criteria, you may qualify for Workforce Financial Assistance (FANTIC) or G3 Scholarships. Funding for both FastForward and FANTIC/G3 programs is limited.

Learn more about FastForward at fastforwardva.org

Workforce Financial Assistance (FANTIC) and G3 provide funding to students demonstrating the required financial need who desire to enroll in an approved workforce training program leading to the attainment of an industry-recognized credential or licensure and are not eligible for other funding grants or financial assistance. Applicants will be awarded on a first come first served basis. These financial assistance programs will pay for 100% of the student’s cost (first one third of the FastForward program). Failure to complete the class will result in the student’s financial obligation to pay an additional one-third of the cost of the program back to the Commonwealth of Virginia. Funding for this program is limited.

Learn more about G3 Scholarships at nvcc.edu/g3

The Virginia Ready Initiative (VA Ready) is a non-profit organization providing incentives for motivated Virginians to reskill for in-demand jobs in high-growth sectors. Anyone who is eligible to enroll in a FastForward program is qualified to become a VA Ready Scholar.

Upon achieving their new credential in one of the selected FastForward training programs, VA Ready Scholars will receive a $1,000 Credential Achievement Award and be offered opportunities to interview at many of Virginia’s best companies.

Learn more about VA Ready and sign up.

Currently available programs:

• CompTIA® A+
• CompTIA® Data+
• CompTIA® Linux+
• CompTIA® Network+
• CompTIA® Security+
• IT Specialist: Python
• AWS Cloud Practitioner
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect (Associate)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
• Nurse Aide Preparation (CNA)
• Medication Aide (RMA)
• Phlebotomy Technician
• Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS)
• Licensed Massage Therapist
• SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP)
• EPA Section 608 Technician Certification (HVAC)
• Commercial Driver's License Class A (CDL-A)

FastForward Program Tuition Chart

Please visit MyWorkforce for additional information on these programs. For a complete list of FastForward programs offered in the State of Virginia, visit fastforwardva.org.

Participants in FastForward programs are expected to attend all class meetings, satisfactorily complete any requirements set by the instructor and/or program, and sit for the Industry Credential exam. 

For courses where the Industry Credential exam is not offered at the end of the course, participants have 30 calendar days from the end of the in-class program to sit for the exam.

To qualify for Workforce Financial Assistance (FANTIC), G3 Scholarships or FastForward subsidized tuition you must meet the Virginia domicile requirements. Virginia "domicile" means you have lived in Virginia and intended to stay here indefinitely for at least one year prior to the date of application. A domicile determination form will be part of your registration process.

For FastForward:

1. Create a MyWorkforce student profile (new students only).
2. Complete all prerequisites based on the program of your choice. Prerequisites are listed in the course description. 
3. Register and pay for your course. The FastForward agreement (preview) and domicile form will be part of your registration process. If you are domiciled in Virginia, your tuition will be discounted. Tuition payment is due at the time of registration.

For FANTIC and G3:

1. Create a MyWorkforce student profile (new students only).
2. Complete all prerequisites based on the program of your choice. Prerequisites are listed in the course description. 
3. Carefully read the FANTIC Application Packet. 
4. Complete the FANTIC Application Form including the Memorandum of Understanding online. Applications should be submitted at least 2 weeks before the class starting date. Completion of the application does not guarantee you have qualified for FANTIC or G3. The FANTIC application will be used to determine funding eligibility for G3 approved FastForward programs.
5. Gather and submit required documents. A NOVA Workforce team member will contact you by email with the next steps on how to submit your documents.
6. Register for your course. Course registration information will be provided to qualified FANTIC and G3 applicants.