An analysis from the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget warns the Pell Grant program faces a structural financing gap that could reach $6 billion to $11 billion each year over the next decade. The shortfall follows the program’s recent expansion to cover short‑term workforce programs and a one‑time $10.5 billion infusion in the summer spending package. CRFB and other analysts said the One Big Beautiful Bill Act’s temporary funding merely delayed the underlying imbalance. The report highlights that newly eligible short Workforce Pell programs—available for courses as short as eight weeks starting July 2026—could exceed initial cost estimates and add materially to long‑term obligations. Colleges and policymakers may face pressure to revisit program design or appropriations; persistent gaps could constrain aid availability and force institutions to absorb greater financial risk tied to lower‑income enrollment.