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How to Get College Scholarships for Single Mothers

DKrunner | Apr 22, 2010 |

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Paying for college is rough; students these days face tuition, books, and fees that are astronomical. Beyond the cost of college itself there are living expenses to keep up with as well, which usually are not all that cheap, either. Add all of these expenses on top of being a single mother, and it may seem as though going to college will never be a realistic option. That's where single mother scholarships come in. College scholarships for single mothers can make going to college and bettering your career options a reality, an option that's within reach. If you want to create a brighter future for both yourself and your children, follow these steps to find out how to get scholarships for single mothers.

Locate your single mother scholarship options. Look everywhere to create as long a list of college scholarships for single mothers as is possible. Look online, talk to local colleges, and utilize local community resources to drum up every single mother college scholarship around. Now that you've got a list of resources to tap into, jump into winning the scholarship.

Get ready to write a killer scholarship essay. Most single mother scholarships will want you to write an essay explaining your situation. It's important to put as much effort as possible into this essay, and stay positive. College scholarships are not the place to review all of the hardships life has dealt-they are a place to reflect on your past accomplishments and future aspirations. Keep it as positive as possible.

Explain in your scholarship application what your career goals are. Talk about what college you plan to attend, how long your training will take, and what degree and job you will end up with.

Be ready to pass along documents that demonstrate your financial need. Many government funded single mother scholarships are based upon financial need. Because of this, many college scholarships of this sort will ask for your pay stubs from the last 6 months. Many others will just ask for proof that you are on social assistance; for example, proof of food stamps or TANF. Do not give your financial, banking, or sensitive information out to just anyone; never share this information with any agency unless you are completely sure that they are legit. Government agencies asking for proof of a low income status are legitimate and just following laws to prove your eligibility for financial aid; other entities may be scams (always proceed with caution).

Complete the official single mother scholarship application form, and your scholarship essay, along with all criteria necessary to prove that you are eligible.