Financial Help for Returning-to-College Women?

My mom is planning on going back to college, and she's been out of school for a while. Are there any specific scholarships or grants for women who are returning to college?

There are numerous grants and scholarships specifically designed to support non-traditional students, including women returning to school. While many scholarships are often offered by specific colleges for their students, there are also national programs. Here are a few examples:

1. The Jeanette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund: This organization has been helping women aged 35 or older pursue their educational goals since the '70s. The funding can be used beyond tuition and can cover costs from child care to transportation.

2. P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) Program for Continuing Education: This provides grants of up to $3,000 for women whose education was interrupted and who find it necessary to return and complete a degree or certification.

3. The American Association of University Women (AAUW) Career Development Grants: Provides funding to women who hold a bachelor’s degree and are preparing to advance their careers or reenter the workforce.

It's important to note that your mom should first fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which calculates the Student Aid Index (SAI). The SAI determines eligibility for federal aid like Pell Grants, work-study funds, and federal loans, and many states and colleges also use the SAI to award their financial aid. Don't overlook this step, it can be a valuable source.

Lastly, don't forget that individual colleges often provide resources, too. Encourage your mom to reach out to the financial aid office at the college she plans to attend—the office can guide institution-specific aid, including endowment-based scholarships.

Hope this helps and best of luck to your mom on her educational journey!