Single Parent Scholarships: Our Top Picks

Cooking, cleaning, working multiple jobs, driving kids to club activities—parents make their children’s lives possible. In many families, there are two parents who split the work. Everything from chores to planning vacations can be split between two adults, lessening the burden on each other and on their children.

In some cases, children may not have two parents to look out for them. 9.8 million single parents households were reported by Current Population Survey in 2023. There are a variety of reasons this may happen, both intentionally and unintentionally. In these cases, a single parent must look after their child/children without support from a spouse.

This article focuses on scholarships designed specifically for single parents to support their educational goals. You’ll learn about whether you qualify for single parent scholarships, how to pay for your own college education as a single parent, and how to balance your academic obligations with parenting. Keep in mind that being a single parent also shapes your children’s identities, so this article will explore financial resources for them as well.

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Who Qualifies for Single Parent Scholarships?

Before diving into the qualifications, we understand that some definitions of single mothers and fathers can invalidate some people’s experiences. We will try to approach this topic with as much compassion as possible but want to be accurate in our research.

We will list the most common requirements for single parent scholarships in the generic wording of these scholarships. You are always welcome to email the scholarship providers if you feel that their requirements exclude your single parent experience in any way.

Parenting Status

• Single Custodial Parent: Most scholarships require that applicants be the primary custodial parent of at least one child under 18. This means that the child lives with the parent most of the time, and they are the primary financial support for their child.
• Legal Status: Some single parent scholarships ask for proof of your single-parent status. This could include a legal document showing separation, divorce, or being widowed, or in some cases, a legal statement asserting that you are an unmarried parent.

Academic Status

• Full-Time or Part-Time Enrollment: Some scholarships require that you are enrolled either full-time or part-time in an accredited college or university. Make sure to check each scholarship’s enrollment requirements, as they can vary significantly.
• Academic Standing: Most scholarships have a minimum GPA requirement, often between 2.5 and 3.0, though some may have more flexible academic standards, particularly for parents who are balancing school, work, and parenting duties.

Other Requirements

• Residency and Citizenship Requirements: Certain scholarships may have location-based eligibility, requiring applicants to reside in a specific state or region. Others might be open only to U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Always remember that while these are common criteria, not every scholarship will include all of these requirements. Tailoring your search and application to your unique situation can help you find the most suitable opportunities.

Overwhelmed by all these requirements? Check out no-essay scholarships which have the least amount of requirements and the easiest application processes!

How to Pay for College as a Single Parent

Balancing the financial demands of college and parenthood can feel overwhelming, but there are several strategies and resources available to help single parents fund their education.

Step-by-Step Guide to Pay for College

1. Apply for Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA): The first step in accessing financial assistance is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form helps determine your eligibility for federal student loans, grants, and work-study programs. As a single parent, you may qualify for increased financial aid due to your household income and family size.
2. Look for Single Parent Scholarships: All the scholarships listed above don’t need to be repaid and are tailored to recognize the unique challenges of balancing school and parenting. Take advantage of these opportunities by applying to as many as possible!
3. Explore Grants for Single Parents: Grants are another excellent source of funding and, like scholarships, do not need to be repaid. Federal Pell Grants are one of the most common types, and you can qualify for them as long as you demonstrate financial need. There are also grants available specifically for single parents through nonprofits, community organizations, and state programs.
4. Utilize Employer Tuition Assistance Programs: If you are currently employed, check if your employer offers tuition assistance or reimbursement programs. Many companies provide financial support to employees seeking further education, which can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost of college.
5. Consider Work-Study Programs: Work-study programs allow you to earn money while attending school, often with flexible hours and jobs related to your field of study. This option can be a valuable way to offset tuition costs without taking on additional debt.

Aside from single parent scholarships, you might want to check out general merit scholarships. Check out returning student scholarships and social work scholarships!

Other Strategies to Pay For College

• Apply for Child Care Assistance: Paying for childcare can be one of the largest expenses for single parents in college. Look into federal and state programs that offer child care assistance, as well as on-campus child care services that may be available at reduced costs. Some schools even offer scholarships or stipends specifically to help cover childcare expenses.
• Research State-Based Aid for Single Parents: Many states offer financial aid programs designed to assist single parents in completing their education. These can include scholarships, grants, and low-interest loan programs that are tailored to your state of residence.
• Consider Community College or Online Programs: Community colleges and online degree programs often offer more affordable and flexible options for single parents. Starting at a community college and then transferring to a four-year institution can also help save on tuition costs.
• Budget Carefully and Explore Affordable Housing Options: Managing your finances wisely can make a significant difference. Create a budget that accounts for tuition, books, living expenses, and child care. Some colleges also offer affordable housing for students with children, which can help reduce your living expenses.
• Take Advantage of Tax Credits: As a single parent, you may qualify for education-related tax credits, such as the American Opportunity Tax Credit or the Lifetime Learning Credit. These credits can help reduce your tax burden and provide financial assistance for your educational expenses.

Most single-family households are run by single mothers. Check out these single mom scholarships designed specifically to support single mothers!

How to Balance Education with Parenting

Securing a college scholarship is only half of the work. Maintaining a healthy school-life schedule is the other half. Here are some strategies to help college students balance their academic work and parenting duties.

Create a Realistic Schedule

Outline your daily and weekly tasks, such as classes, study sessions, and family responsibilities. Using a planner or digital calendar can help you block out specific times for schoolwork and family time. Make sure your schedule is balanced and realistic, and always make sure to block out moments of self-care.

Pro Tip: Leave at least an hour free every day in case homework takes too long or your child has an emergency. Consider it buffer time to manage whatever life throws at you.

Prioritize Self-Care

Amid the demands of parenting and school, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care. Taking care of your health by getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking short breaks will keep you energized and focused. Remember that by caring for yourself, you’ll be in a better position to manage your academic workload and be more present for your children.

Ask for Support

You may be a single parent, but you don’t have to care for your child 100% on your own. Don’t be afraid to seek help from family, friends, or your school’s support services. Many colleges offer valuable resources for student parents, such as childcare facilities, family housing, and counseling services. Asking for support and delegating tasks when needed can lighten your load and help you stay on top of your responsibilities.

Study Efficiently

When it comes to schoolwork, focus on making your study time as productive as possible. Prioritize high-impact assignments, and consider using productivity techniques like the Pomodoro method. Take advantage of downtime—such as when your child is napping or playing independently—to complete school tasks.

Set Boundaries

Establish clear boundaries by communicating your responsibilities as a parent to your professors, employer, and family members. Letting them know your availability and limitations can reduce stress and create a healthier balance between your educational and parenting roles.

For graduate students who are also single parents, they may face additional academic demands. These graduate school scholarships aim to financially support graduate students so they focus on their studies!

Financial Support for Children of Single Parents

Children of single parents are much more likely to grow up in hardship conditions in comparison to children of married parents. Luckily, there are resources which understand their unique situations and can support their education. Many organizations offer scholarships specifically for children raised by single parents, such as the the Larry Darnell Green scholarship which supports both single parents and the children of single parents.

Additionally, government grants and need-based aid like the Federal Pell Grant may be available based on family income. Some colleges provide institutional scholarships and financial aid packages that consider the financial challenges faced by single-parent families, ensuring that children have access to the education and opportunities they need for success.

As a single parent, you may not be able to provide the “homework help” that your child needs. Luckily, we’ve researched the top tutoring programs by subject so that your child feels academically supported!

Frequently Asked Questions About Single Parent Scholarships

1. How Can I Increase My Chances of Getting a Single Parent Scholarship?

To increase your chances, apply early, ensure your application materials are complete, and tailor your essays to highlight your unique experiences as a single parent. Consider local and state-specific college scholarships, as these will have fewer applicants.

2. What Is the Best Degree for a Single Parent?

The best degree for a single parent is one that aligns with their career goals and offers flexibility. Online or part-time programs can be especially beneficial for balancing studies with parenting responsibilities. Some popular majors for single parents include: data science (high pay & remote), education (offers school support), psychology (you make your own schedule).

3. Which School Offers the Best College Education for a Single Parent?

Schools that offer flexible learning options, such as an online college degree and strong support services, are ideal for single parents. Colleges like Southern New Hampshire University and Arizona State University are known for providing robust resources for students balancing education and parenting.