Key Takeaway: Balancing motherhood and college can be challenging, especially if you are concerned about finances. However, mom and single moms may qualify for grants to help you fund your degree. To determine your eligibility, start by completing the FAFSA. With the right financial support, you can focus on your studies and provide for your family.
Going to college can be a big transition for anyone, but it can be especially challenging when you have children to care for. Balancing work, family, and education can take a toll, leaving many mothers wondering if they’ll have the money or time to go back to school.
While the time constraints and financial pressures can be a lot to juggle as a mom, receiving a college education can be super helpful. Not only can a degree create more career opportunities and improve your financial stability, but it can also set a positive example for your children that you can do anything you set your mind to.
If finances are standing in your way, know that there is financial help available to you. One major type of financial aid for moms is in the form of grants. We’ve rounded up a few to get you started!
What to Know About Grants for Moms
Grants do not need to be repaid and are often awarded based on financial need or to encourage students to pursue certain careers. This can be extremely helpful for mothers who feel they cannot take off from work or are struggling to balance childcare costs and their educational goals.
There are a few different types of grants with different eligibility requirements. Here’s a look:
Different Types of Grants
Federal Grants are grants provided by the U.S. government and are typically need-based. The most common federal grant is the Pell Grant, available to undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor’s degree. College-specific grants and state grants are similar to federal grants but the funds come from the college or state in which you attend. Contact your college’s financial aid office to find grants available at your college or in your state.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a grant, you will need to display financial need. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to qualify for most federal and state grants. When filling out the FAFSA form, you’ll provide financial information, your social security, and tax information to find out how much aid you can receive.
Beyond financial need, certain grants will have additional requirements. Some may consider academic performance, such as GPA or enrollment status, while others target specific groups, like single parents or those pursuing a specific field of study.
Finding and Applying for Grants
When searching for grants, you can use online resources like FAFSA or contact your school’s financial aid office. Make sure you have the necessary documents: a completed FAFSA, your transcripts, and a strong personal statement. Keep track of deadlines and the grants you’ve applied to.
Successful Grant Programs for Mothers
To help you get started on your grant search, we’ve compiled a list of potential options:
1. Pell Grant
The Pell Grant is one of the most popular grants for helping students in financial need. The amount given for the awarded is $7,395 for the 2024–25 school year. To apply, you’ll need to complete your FAFSA form and you are eligible for it every year for up to six years. If you’re eligible for a Federal Pell Grant, you’ll receive the full amount you qualify for each year.
2. Emma Johnson Single Mother Grant
If you are a single mom, this grant could be for you! Every month, Emma Johnson gives $1,000 to a single mom committed to building a positive life for herself, her family and contributing to the world in a productive way.
3. Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholar Grants
The Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund is an initiative dedicated to transforming the lives of women. If you are 35 or older, demonstrate financial need, and are pursuing higher education, you may be eligible to apply.
4. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG):
This is another grant you can apply for by filling out the FAFSA. The financial aid office will then award the grant to students who have the most financial need. The amount can vary between $100 to $4,000 per year.
How to Use Your Grant Money
Once receiving a grant, you can spend it in a few different ways. You can use it to cover part of your tuition fees or purchase your required textbooks and materials. You can also use it to help with living expenses while you are in school, such as rent, childcare, and transportation costs.
While moms face different obstacles that traditional college students may not face when going to school, there are grants to help make it more affordable for them. When mothers are able to go to school with less financial strain, they are able to provide for their families better. Everyone deserves an education – grants provide the support that mothers need to make it a reality.
Are you a mom looking for more ways to earn money to pay for school? You can use College Raptor’s Scholarship search tool to browse through thousands of scholarships for FREE.
