Grants for Mothers Returning to School
Federal, state, and private grants specifically support mothers and single parents pursuing education, training, and career advancement. Whether you're returning after years away, pursuing higher education, or earning a credential, funding is available to help you reach your goals without overwhelming debt.
Types of Grants for Mothers Returning to School
Federal Student Aid & Grants
Federal grants that don't require repayment, designed specifically for low-income and non-traditional students.
- • Pell Grants (up to $7,000/year)
- • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
- • TEACH Grant (for education careers)
- • Work-Study programs for mothers
State-Specific Parent Grants
State programs targeting single parents, mothers, and non-traditional students returning to education.
- • State grant programs for parents
- • State work-study for adult learners
- • State education grants for single mothers
- • Career training grants for parent transitions
Career & Vocational Training
Grants for mothers pursuing job training, certification, and career pathway programs.
- • Workforce development grants
- • WIOA (Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act) funding
- • Vocational rehabilitation for mothers
- • Career transition training grants
Non-Profit & Foundation Grants
Private funding from organizations supporting mothers' educational advancement.
- • Mothers' education scholarships
- • Single parent education funds
- • Non-traditional student grants
- • Women's education advancement grants
Eligibility for Mothers Returning to School Grants
Basic Requirements
You're eligible if you're a mother (biological, adoptive, or guardian), single parent, or primary caregiver returning to education after a gap. Most programs don't require a minimum age—only that you're pursuing education and have dependent children or parenting responsibilities.
Education Levels Supported
Grants cover high school completion (GED), vocational certificates, community college, bachelor's degrees, and graduate education. Some programs target specific fields like nursing, healthcare, or technology that have strong job markets for parent-friendly careers.
Financial Need
Federal grants (Pell, FSEOG) require FAFSA completion and demonstrated financial need. State and private grants vary—some are need-based, others prioritize single mothers or low-income parents regardless of assets.
Citizenship & Status
Federal grants require U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen status. Most state grants also require state residency. Some private grants may have broader eligibility for dreamers or undocumented students.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I balance motherhood and going back to school?
Grants make this possible by removing financial stress. Look for programs offering flexible schedules, evening/weekend classes, online options, and childcare support. Many colleges have resources for non-traditional and parent students. Community colleges offer flexible, affordable pathways. Some employers offer tuition assistance for employee parents. Plan your schedule around your children's needs and consider part-time enrollment initially.
Do I qualify for Pell Grants if I'm a returning student?
Yes. Pell Grants (up to $7,000/year) don't care if you're returning after 10 years—only your financial need and Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) status matter. Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) at fafsa.gov. Most returning mothers qualify due to raising dependent children reducing household income. You'll be classified as independent (your age, not parents' income), which often increases your financial aid.
Are there grants specifically for single mothers?
Yes. Organizations like AAUW, National Council of Negro Women, Single Mothers Alliance, and various state education departments offer grants specifically for single mothers. Additionally, Pell Grants and many state grants prioritize single-parent households financially. Search "single mother grants your state" or contact your state higher education agency for state-specific programs.
Can I get help with childcare while I study?
Many colleges offer on-campus or subsidized childcare for student parents. Federal CCDBG (Child Care Development Block Grant) and state programs may cover childcare costs. Some grants include childcare support in their funding. Ask your school's financial aid office about parent resources. Some employers offer dependent care accounts (pre-tax) to help fund childcare while you study.
What if I haven't completed high school?
Many grants support GED and high school completion. Adult education programs, community colleges, and workforce development offer free or low-cost GED prep. Once you complete your diploma/GED, you're eligible for Pell Grants, state grants, and most vocational/certificate programs. Your state education department can direct you to free adult education resources.
How do I apply for federal and state grants?
1. Complete FAFSA at fafsa.gov (opens Oct 1) for federal aid and state determination 2. Contact your college/university financial aid office—they'll tell you available grants 3. Search your state higher education agency website for state-specific parent grants 4. Search sites like FastWeb.com (free scholarship search) with filters for non-traditional/parent students 5. Contact nonprofits supporting mothers in education in your state
Key Resources for Mothers Returning to School
FAFSA (fafsa.gov)
Start here. Free federal application for all financial aid. Opens October 1 annually. Complete it even if you don't think you qualify—many parents do.
Your State Higher Education Agency
Each state has grants for parents and non-traditional students. Visit your state's higher education website to find state-specific parent grants, work-study, and assistance programs.
College Financial Aid Offices
Contact the school you're interested in. They have resources for parent students, emergency funds, and sometimes institutional grants specifically for returning parents.
National Organizations for Mothers in Education
AAUW (American Association of University Women), Single Mothers Alliance, NCCW (National Council of Catholic Women), and similar organizations often fund mother education initiatives.
Workforce Development Programs (WIOA)
If retraining for a career, contact your state's workforce development office. WIOA funds training for parents transitioning to better-paying careers.
Available Grants for Mothers Returning to School
No grants currently matching these specific criteria. However, Pell Grants, FSEOG, and state grants support many returning mothers. Complete your FAFSA to see what you qualify for.