My mom is a single parent interested in attending college. What are the best routes to find grants or scholarships for single moms looking to further their education? Any experiences or recommendations would be helpful!
Based on your mom's situation, there are several potential routes to consider when searching for college grants or scholarships.
Firstly, she can look into federal resources. She should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as it can open up access to federal grants, which are free money that she doesn't need to pay back. One notable federal grant is the Pell Grant, which is based on financial need. The income threshold varies from year to year, and a specific formula is used to determine eligibility.
Next, she can look into state-specific aid programs. In many cases, states have their own financial aid program for residents, with specific scholarships for people in certain situations, like single parents. She can look into these opportunities on her state's Department of Education or its equivalent website.
Additionally, try searching for scholarships specifically geared toward single mothers. For example, the Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation offers five awards of up to $5,000 each year to low-income mothers.
Private companies or organizations might also offer scholarships. For example, some non-profits or foundations provide scholarships for single parents or individuals returning to school. Checking local community organizations, religious institutions, or civic groups can also yield results.
At the college level, some institutions may offer grant money or scholarships for non-traditional students or single parents. Your mom should get in touch with the financial aid office to ask if there are any special aid packages available.
Lastly, using scholarship search platforms like Appily can provide a customized list of scholarships based on specific eligibility criteria.
Remember, your mom has a unique story to tell, and there are plenty of opportunities out there! The key is to be thorough, start the search early, and apply for all the opportunities for which she qualifies.
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