“Everyone has a right to a university degree in America, even if it’s in Hamburger Technology.” Clive James
I know it sounds like an off-handed remark made to sound witty and humorous but I think it has a ring of truth in it. I believe that we all have that right to get a degree and I would like to think we all get to exercise this right if and when we want to. However, the world is not so idyllic that it will conform to my notions.
Single motherhood is nothing new nowadays. They are in a very difficult situation because they have to be both mother and father to their children but it is even more difficult for those single parents who have low-incomes especially those who do not have a university degree. So, even if the single mom going back to school is the best option for the family, they are unable to do so because they cannot afford it now. It’s a vicious cycle.
There are a lot of grants and scholarships for single mothers to go to college. Some of these are student grants for low-income families, under which most families with single moms belong to. The single mother can also opt for student loans. The following are some groups catering to single parents:
Programs Offered by The Assistance League
This is a philanthropic society which has programs for family. They provide scholarships, shelter outreach, and monetary grants. They have bases all over the US. To find the nearest location: The Assistance League.
College of DuPage Foundation Single Parent Scholarship
A scholarship, specifically for single parents with dependent children. Ten $1000 scholarships are awarded each year. You can find more info about this here: http://www.cod.edu/dept/fin_aid/scholarships/cod_singleparen.htm
Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund
This was a fund established to address the need of single-parent families in Arkansas. If you are a single parent living in Arkansas, you can apply for this. Other states also have a similar scholarship fund for single parents.
Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarship
For single mothers, who want to pursue a degree related to business. This is only for single moms who are studying at the undergraduate level.
There are more scholarships to choose from, there is even one where all you need to do is register and you have chance to get $10000 for college. The best place to look tor them is at the college you plan to attend. Contact your school’s financial aid office. Don’t delay. Start applying now!

