College scholarships are not just for traditional students. Scholarships for nontraditional students such as single parents and older women expand the accessibility of higher education. Single mothers in high school and beyond are eligible to apply for a range of scholarship programs. Some scholarships do require documentation of single parenthood before funds are disbursed.
Denny's Single Parent Student
Denny's offers the Single Parent Student Scholarship to Hispanic single mothers with demonstrated financial need. You can apply to receive the Denny's Single Parent if you meet the base qualifications and maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. The scholarship program may request that you participate in publicity efforts to promote the program. Proof of single parenthood is also required. Initial verification documents include the child's birth certificate, though further information can be requested by the program administrator.
Patsy Takemoto Mink Foundation
Congresswoman Patsy Takemoto Mink was an advocate of women's rights, especially those related to equal opportunities in education. She created the Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Award to support low-income single mothers pursuing higher education. Scholarship funds can be used toward the cost of attending a vocational, technical or traditional college. Women enrolled in skills training programs are also able to receive an award. You must have a dependent child under the age of 17 to qualify for this award. As of 2011, five awards up to $2,000 each are disbursed each year.
Project Working Mom
If you are interested in pursuing an online education, eLearners created the Project Working Mom scholarship to help single women balance time, family and finances. The Project Working Mom program aids women in budgeting their time and money in preparation for college. Winners of the Project Working Mom scholarship receive an award that covers the cost of full tuition to an online college or university. Selections are based on how well you communicate your future career goals and your ability to triumph over obstacles.
AARP Foundation Women's Scholarship
The AARP Foundation seeks to lower the poverty rate of older women through its scholarship program. To qualify, you must be 40 or older. Preference is given to women who have been out of the workforce for more than five years or who are currently raising the child of another family member. The number of scholarships and award amounts varies each year. Selections are based on the applicant's statement of goals and determination to succeed in the face of obstacles.
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