Paying for college as a single mother can feel impossible, but single mom school grants make it more achievable.

These programs are designed to reduce the financial strain of tuition, childcare, and daily expenses so you can focus on earning your degree.

I’ve gathered the most reliable options from federal, state, and private sources to help you find the right fit. I’ll walk you through what each program offers, how to qualify, and the way to apply for grants efficiently.

What Do School Grants for Single Moms Really Mean

Single mom school grants are financial aid programs that help mothers pay for college or job training while raising children.

These grants are usually need-based, meaning they’re given to those who truly need financial help, not loans that must be repaid.

They can come from federal and state governments, colleges, or private organizations. The money can cover tuition, books, childcare, housing, or daily living costs, depending on the program.

The goal is to make education more affordable so single mothers can build stable careers and support their families.

Federal Aid for Single Moms

Federal aid is the foundation of most financial assistance packages. Money is distributed directly by the U.S. Department of Education. These programs often unlock the most reliable funding sources:

1. Pell Grant

The Pell Grant offers up to $7,395 per year based on your income, household size, and enrollment status. It’s free money that doesn’t have to be repaid and can be used for tuition, books, or living expenses.

Completing the FAFSA early helps you secure the maximum amount available.

Eligibility:

• Enrollment: Must be enrolled in an eligible college or training program.
• Financial need: Based on FAFSA income and family information.
• Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.

2. FSEOG (Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant)

The FSEOG is a campus-based grant that provides $100–$4,000 per year to students with the greatest financial need.

Each participating college receives a limited amount of funding, so applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Eligibility:

• Financial need: Must have exceptional financial hardship as determined by FAFSA.
• Enrollment: Must be attending a participating school.
• Timing: Apply early; funds are limited and distributed quickly.

3. Work-Study Program

The Federal Work-Study Program gives students the opportunity to earn money through part-time jobs that fit around school and family responsibilities.

Many positions are on campus or through local nonprofits, offering flexible hours for parents.

Eligibility:

• Enrollment: Must be enrolled in a participating school.
• Financial need: Determined by FAFSA.
• Work hours: Part-time employment while enrolled in classes.

4. Federal Student Loans

Federal Student Loans help fill financial gaps when grants or scholarships aren’t enough. Subsidized loans are the best option because the government covers your interest while you’re in school.

Always borrow only what you need and review repayment options carefully.

Eligibility:

• FAFSA submission: Required to determine loan eligibility.
• Enrollment: At least half-time in an accredited program.
• Responsible borrowing: Must agree to repayment terms after graduation.

Scholarships: Single Mom School Grants

Private or nonprofit awards created specifically for single mothers. These are not federal programs but are offered by foundations, charities, and community groups that want to help moms succeed in education:

5. Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award

This Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award program awards $1,000–$10,000 to women striving to improve their lives through education or skills training.

It’s perfect for single mothers aiming to rejoin the workforce or complete a degree while raising children, offering flexible funding for tuition, childcare, or books.

Eligibility:

• Female head of household: Must be the primary caregiver for dependents.
• Enrollment: Currently enrolled or accepted in an accredited program.
• Financial need: Must demonstrate financial hardship.

6. Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Grant

This Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Grant offers up to $5,000 to low-income mothers pursuing higher education or career training. It’s designed to support women committed to achieving financial independence and career progress through college or professional certification.

Eligibility:

• Dependent children: Must have at least one child.
• Income requirement: Family income under $30,000 annually.
• Accreditation: Enrolled or accepted in an accredited school or program.

7. Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP)

WISP provides vital financial aid to single mothers who are survivors of domestic violence, helping them rebuild stable lives through education and sustainable employment.

It prioritizes women working toward economic independence after overcoming abuse.

Eligibility:

• Abuse survivor: Must have left an abusive relationship.
• Time gap: Separated from abuser for at least one year.
• Financial need: Must show verifiable economic hardship.

8. Jeannette Rankin Foundation Grant

This Jeannette Rankin Foundation Grant program supports women aged 35 and older pursuing their first degree or technical credential.

Award amounts start at $2,000 and help older mothers return to school or complete unfinished education for better career prospects.

Eligibility:

• Age: Must be 35 years or older.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Enrollment: Enrolled in an accredited institution of higher learning.

9. ANSWER Scholarship

The ANSWER Scholarship provides $2,000–$5,000 annually for mothers in North or South Carolina working toward a two- or four-year degree.

It’s ideal for women balancing parenting with school and seeking a stable career path.

Eligibility:

• Parenting status: Mother of school-aged children.
• Residency: Must live in North or South Carolina.
• Academic standard: Minimum GPA of 2.5 required.

10. Bruce & Marjorie Sundlun Scholarship

The Bruce & Marjorie Sundlun Scholarshipawards $1,000–$2,000 to low-income single parents returning to school.

It’s meant to support individuals seeking self-sufficiency through education and new career opportunities.

Eligibility:

• Residency: Must be a Rhode Island resident.
• Status: Single parent with one or more dependents.
• Financial need: Must show proof of financial hardship.

11. Emerge Scholarship

The Emerge Scholarship supports Georgia women who paused their education due to family or work responsibilities.

With awards up to $5,000, it helps recipients restart their studies and contribute to their communities through career development.

Eligibility:

• Residence: Must live in Georgia.
• Education break: Had an interruption in education for family reasons.
• Community involvement: Must show active participation in community service.

12. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers Single Mother Scholarship

This Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers Single Mother Scholarship grants $1,000 scholarship to single mothers who have shown strength and perseverance in pursuing education despite personal challenges.

It’s open to women enrolled in college or law school who balance family, work, and academics. The award recognizes resilience, dedication, and long-term commitment to professional growth

Eligibility:

• Status: Single mother currently enrolled in school.
• Academic requirement: Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

13. Stella H. Oaks Foundation Scholarship

The Stella H. Oaks Foundation Scholarship supports single mothers pursuing higher education or vocational training to improve their family’s financial stability.

The program aims to empower women through education, helping them gain skills for meaningful employment and long-term self-reliance.

Eligibility:

• Parent status: Must be a single mother with dependent children.
• Enrollment: Enrolled or accepted in an accredited college, university, or vocational program.
• Financial need: Must demonstrate financial hardship.
• Commitment: Focused on completing a degree or certificate that enhances career opportunities.

14. Capture the Dream Single Parent Scholarship

The Capture the Dream Single Parent Scholarship awards $1,000 to help single parents in California pay for tuition or childcare.

It focuses on breaking financial barriers that prevent parents from completing college. Recipients are recognized for resilience, dedication, and commitment to improving their family’s future.

Eligibility:

• Residency: Must live in California.
• Status: Single parent enrolled in college.
• Need: Must demonstrate financial difficulty.

15. Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund

The Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund provides $500–$1,500 to single parents pursuing higher education. It supports parents who want to advance their careers while raising children.

The program reduces financial pressure through tuition and living cost assistance, helping families achieve greater independence.

Eligibility:

• Residency: Arkansas resident.
• Parent status: Single parent with dependent children.
• Income level: Must fall within the low-to-moderate income range.

16. Ruth B. Sayre Scholarship

The Ruth B. Sayre Scholarship encourages rural women to further their education and leadership skills. Awards range from $500–$1,000 and are granted to women improving their communities through learning and service.

It’s ideal for single mothers living in small towns or agricultural areas.

Eligibility:

• Residence: Must live in a rural community.
• Community role: Active in local leadership or service.
• Enrollment: Must attend an accredited program.

17. P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education

The P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education offers up to $3,000 to women returning to school after a pause. The funds can cover tuition, childcare, or essential expenses.

This program supports single mothers working to complete their education and improve career opportunities after family-related breaks.

Eligibility:

• Citizenship: U.S. or Canadian woman.
• Education gap: Returning to school after a pause.
• Need: Must demonstrate financial need.

18. AAUW Career Development Grant

The AAUW Career Development Grant provides $2,000–$12,000 for women returning to school or changing careers. It supports single mothers seeking to upgrade their skills through advanced education or certification.

The grant helps create financial independence and career advancement for women across industries.

Eligibility:

• Degree status: Hold a bachelor’s degree.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Program type: Enrolled in career-focused study.

19. Foundation for Women’s Education Grant

The Foundation for Women’s Education Grant offers $1,000–$3,000 to single mothers pursuing degrees that lead to steady careers.

It promotes personal growth and professional development while encouraging community involvement. Funds can help cover tuition, transportation, or other academic costs.

Eligibility:

• Parent status: Female parent currently enrolled in school.
• Commitment: Demonstrated dedication to service or community projects.
• Financial status: Must show financial need.

20. College JumpStart Scholarship

The College JumpStart Scholarship is a $1,000 merit-based award for students who show perseverance and community involvement.

It’s ideal for single mothers determined to pursue education while managing family duties. Winners are chosen for their motivation, leadership, and drive to succeed.

Eligibility:

• Enrollment: High school or adult learner enrolled in school.
• Essay: Must submit a personal essay.
• Values: Must demonstrate perseverance and commitment.

21. Visionary Scholarship Program

The Visionary Scholarship Program awards $1,000–$2,500 for essays that share educational goals and future aspirations.

It encourages single mothers to tell their stories and highlight how education can change their families’ lives. Recipients are chosen based on clarity, ambition, and potential impact.

Eligibility:

• Enrollment: Be a current or incoming college student.
• Essay: Submit a short essay about goals and motivation.
• Residency: Must be a U.S. resident.

22. Zonta Club Jane M. Klausman Award

The Zonta Club Jane M. Klausman Award provides $2,000–$8,000 to women in business or leadership programs. It recognizes academic excellence and leadership potential.

This award is perfect for single mothers pursuing management, entrepreneurship, or business studies to enhance their careers.

Eligibility:

• Field of study: Must be enrolled in a business or leadership-related program.
• Performance: Demonstrate strong academic records.
• Leadership: Show proven leadership and initiative.

23. Society of Women Engineers Reentry Scholarship

The Society of Women Engineers Reentry Scholarship awards up to $5,000 to women returning to STEM fields after time away.

It supports single mothers who paused their careers to raise children and now wish to continue in engineering, tech, or science.

Eligibility:

• Program: Must be pursuing a STEM degree.
• Education gap: Minimum two-year break before returning.
• Membership: SWE membership preferred but not required.

24. LiveLikeLyly Memorial Scholarship

The LiveLikeLyly Memorial Scholarship offers $500–$2,000 to creative students studying art, fashion, or design. It honors resilience, creativity, and dedication.

Single mothers pursuing design-related fields can use the award to fund projects, supplies, or educational costs.

Eligibility:

• Major: Enrolled in an art, fashion, or design program.
• Residency: Must be a U.S. resident.
• Portfolio: Submit a strong creative portfolio.

25. Single Parent Alliance & Resource Center Grant

The Single Parent Alliance & Resource Center Grant provides quick, practical microgrants for tuition, books, or emergencies.

It’s designed to help single mothers stay in school during tough times. Awards are small but impactful, preventing students from dropping out due to financial stress.

Eligibility:

• Status: Be a single parent currently in school.
• Need: Demonstrate financial hardship.
• Community: Show active participation in local programs.

26. EFWA Women in Transition Scholarship

The EFWA Women in Transition Scholarship supports women reentering education to study accounting or finance.

It covers tuition or certification expenses and helps single mothers regain financial independence through career-focused education in business fields.

Eligibility:

• Field: Must be studying accounting or finance.
• Education break: Returning to education after a gap.
• Financial need: Must demonstrate need for support.

27. Live Your Dream Local Partner Awards

The Live Your Dream Local Partner Awards provide $500–$2,000 through regional Soroptimist chapters.

These local programs empower single mothers pursuing degrees or job training by covering essential education costs and offering community mentorship.

Eligibility:

• Residency: Live within the sponsoring chapter’s area.
• Status: Be a single mother enrolled in college.
• Need: Demonstrate low income and financial need.

State Grants & Tuition Programs

Each U.S. state offers financial aid to help students cover tuition and living costs. Many of these programs support single parents, part-time students, and adults returning to school.

State grants are one of the easiest ways to lower college costs without taking loans. Apply as early as possible many programs run out of funds quickly.

How to Check If You’re Eligible?

Before applying, make sure you meet the basic qualifications most single mom grants and scholarships require. These points help determine your eligibility for federal, state, or private funding:

• Single parent status: You must be the custodial parent or able to prove single-parent status through custody papers, tax filings, or household documents.
• Enrollment: You should be enrolled in or accepted into an accredited college, trade school, or online program, either part-time or full-time.
• Income and household size: Most programs have income limits based on how many dependents you support. Lower-income families typically qualify for larger awards.
• Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen. Some programs may also accept DACA recipients or permanent residents with valid documentation.
• Academic progress: Many grants require that you maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP) to renew aid each year.
• Financial need documentation: Be ready to show pay stubs, tax returns, or FAFSA results to confirm your financial situation.

What to Apply for First: Quick Answer

Start with the main funding sources that give single moms the best financial support for school. These programs often unlock additional scholarships and resources:

1. FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your starting point. It determines eligibility for Pell Grants, FSEOG, and Work-Study programs.

Submitting it early increases your chances of receiving more aid. Nearly every school and state program requires a FAFSA on file to award financial aid.

2. Your State Grant

Each state offers grants for residents based on income and enrollment type. These funds can cover tuition, books, and living expenses.

Check your state’s higher education website for details and deadlines. State grants often combine with federal aid, helping single moms lower college costs significantly.

3. Single-Parent Scholarships

These scholarships are created specifically for single mothers returning to school. They often value determination and need over perfect grades.

Awards may range from $500 to several thousand dollars and are offered by nonprofits, local groups, and private foundations. Applying to multiple programs increases your chances of success.

4. Childcare & Emergency Aid

Many schools and nonprofits offer grants for childcare, housing, or urgent expenses. Programs like CCAMPIS and on-campus childcare centers can make education manageable for parents.

Local charities may also provide small emergency funds that help single mothers stay enrolled during unexpected challenges.

How to Apply for School Grants Faster

A simple system helps you stay organized and apply for multiple grants efficiently:

• Build Your Master Application Folder: Keep one folder with all key documents. It saves time and makes it easy to reuse materials for different applications.
• Documents Required: Include your photo ID, FAFSA confirmation, school transcripts, proof of single-parent status, proof of income, enrollment verification, and letters of recommendation.
• Create an Essay Kit: Write one personal essay about your goals and challenges as a single mom. Save a short and long version so you can adjust them for different scholarships.
• Plan a Recommendation Strategy: Ask teachers, employers, or mentors early. Share your goals and resume, and remind them a week before the deadline. Send a thank-you after.
• Keep an Application Calendar: Track each program’s name, deadline, award amount, and status. Set reminders and aim to submit two applications per month.
• Extra Time-Saving Tips: Store all essays and forms in one folder. Reuse completed applications as templates. Bookmark Studentaid.gov, Scholarships.com, and Bold.org for new listings.

Conclusion

Pursuing higher education as a single mother may feel overwhelming, but single-mother school grants can transform those challenges into achievable goals.

These programs not only ease the burden of tuition and childcare costs but also open doors to stable careers, personal growth, and long-term financial security.

By applying early, staying organized, and combining federal, state, and private aid, you can build a strong foundation for your family’s future.

Education is the most powerful investment you can make for yourself and your children.