Returning to school as a single mom can be a transformative journey, opening doors to better career opportunities and personal growth. However, balancing the financial challenges of tuition, childcare, and daily expenses can be daunting. Fortunately, scholarships specifically designed for single mothers can help ease the financial burden. This article explores some of the best scholarship opportunities and offers tips for securing funding as a single mom returning to school.

Why Scholarships Matter for Single Moms
- Financial Relief: Scholarships can cover tuition, books, and other expenses, reducing reliance on loans.
- Empowerment: Education enables single moms to pursue fulfilling careers and achieve financial independence.
- Support Networks: Many scholarship programs provide mentorship and access to supportive communities.
- Flexibility: Online and part-time education scholarships cater to single moms juggling multiple responsibilities.
Top Scholarships for Single Moms
1. Pell Grants
Pell Grants are need-based federal grants for low-income students, including single mothers.
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens with significant financial need.
- Award Amount: Up to $7,395 for the 2024-2025 academic year.
- How to Apply: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
2. Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
This program supports low-income women aged 35 and older pursuing undergraduate degrees.
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents with financial need.
- Award Amount: Varies based on need and available funds.
- Focus: Encourages applications from single mothers.
3. Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Grants
The Patsy Takemoto Mink Foundation offers grants to low-income women, including single moms.
- Eligibility: Women with minor children and annual family incomes below $20,000 for a family of two.
- Award Amount: Up to $5,000.
- Use: Can cover tuition, childcare, or living expenses.
4. Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards
Soroptimist International provides educational grants for women who are the primary financial support for their families.
- Eligibility: Women with dependents enrolled in vocational or undergraduate programs.
- Award Amount: $1,000 to $16,000.
- Additional Benefits: Access to mentorship and career guidance.
5. Raise the Nation Foundation Scholarships
This foundation offers scholarships to single moms to help them return to school and reduce debt.
- Eligibility: Single mothers demonstrating financial need.
- Award Amount: Varies based on funding availability.
6. EFWA Scholarships for Women in Accounting
The Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting provides scholarships for women pursuing degrees in accounting.
- Eligibility: Female undergraduate or graduate students with financial need.
- Award Amount: Up to $16,000 annually.
- Focus: Encourages single moms to apply.
7. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
This federal grant program assists low-income undergraduate students.
- Eligibility: Students with exceptional financial need who qualify for Pell Grants.
- Award Amount: $100 to $4,000 per year.
- How to Apply: Submit a FAFSA application.
8. Local and State-Specific Scholarships
Many states and local organizations offer scholarships specifically for single moms.
- Examples:
- Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund: Supports single parents in Arkansas.
- Kansas Career Technical Workforce Grant: Helps single moms pursuing technical education.
How to Apply for Scholarships
1. Research Early
Start exploring scholarship opportunities well before application deadlines. Use scholarship databases and university resources.
2. Prepare Strong Application Materials
- Personal Statement: Highlight your goals, challenges as a single mom, and how education will change your life.
- Letters of Recommendation: Seek recommendations from employers, professors, or community leaders.
- Documentation: Ensure financial documents, transcripts, and identification are readily available.
3. Tailor Each Application
Customize your application for each scholarship by addressing specific eligibility criteria and program values.
4. Leverage FAFSA
Completing the FAFSA is essential for accessing federal grants, loans, and many institutional scholarships.
5. Stay Organized
Maintain a calendar of deadlines and track required materials for each application.
Tips for Success
- Network: Join support groups for single moms and connect with other scholarship recipients.
- Utilize Resources: Many schools have dedicated financial aid advisors for non-traditional students.
- Consider Flexible Programs: Look for scholarships that support online or part-time education.
- Apply Broadly: Increase your chances by applying to multiple scholarships.
Returning to school as a single mom is a courageous step toward a brighter future. Scholarships designed for single mothers provide the financial and emotional support needed to achieve academic and professional goals. With diligent research and a strong application, you can unlock opportunities that will empower you and inspire your children. Start your scholarship search today and take the first step toward your educational journey.