Single mothers who want to further their education beyond high school have many opportunities. There are grants for single mothers that will help pay for college costs. Most often these grants do not have to be paid back. These grants can be found by doing a little research and checking educational sources to find out what is available.
TEACH Grant
Single moms who are interested in pursuing a teaching degree may qualify for a TEACH grant. The TEACH grant is a federal grant that encourages students to become teachers. Students must commit to teaching in a low-income area for at least four years as an elementary or high school teacher. If the fulfillment of the grant is not followed through the amount of the grant will have to be repaid. Individuals, who are interesting in teaching, should put a lot of thought into their plans after graduation before applying.
Pell Grants
Pell grants are funded by the federal government. The grant is not a loan so single mothers do not have to concern themselves on how to pay the funding back. The grants are awarded to students who have not earned a bachelor’s degree. The award is based on a person’s financial need. There are some limits on the maximum amount that a single mother can receive during an academic year. Students cannot be convicted of any type felony to receive government assistance. A person can now only receive a Pell grant for a total of 6 years. Students interested in applying for the Pell grant can do so by filling out the student aid application. These applications are usually free to students.
Institutional Grants
Institutional grants are offered by the college or university the student wishes to attend. People interested in applying for these grants have to contact the college directly. Many of these grants are given on a first come basis or financial need. Most students are required to have a certain GPA to receive the grant. There is usually a deadline to apply for institutional grants.
Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant
If you are a child of a person who was killed in the Iraq or Afghanistan war, you are eligible to receive this grant. Individuals must have been a student at the time their parent or guardian lost their life in the war. The student must also be under the age of 24 years old in order to receive the grant award. Students are eligible to receive the maximum amount. The amount is usually the same as the Pell grant award.
Federal Work Study (FWS) Grant
A federal work study (FWS) grant is awarded by the government. The FWS awards students with part-time employment to aid in financing their educational costs. Students are placed in various areas of the school in order to work to pay for their education. Most students are place in areas such as the library, cafeteria, admissions office and other school offices. Hourly wages for the program has to meet the federal minimum wage.
Resources:
http://www.educationgrant.com/grants/
