Scholarships for Single Mothers
Scholarships for Single Mothers: Being a single mother is one of the toughest and most rewarding jobs out there. Between juggling work, childcare, meals, and everything in between, finding time and money for your own education can feel impossible.
But here’s the good news: there are scholarships for single mothers designed specifically to help you succeed in 2026. These aren’t loans—you don’t have to pay them back. They’re free money that recognizes your strength, resilience, and determination to build a better future for you and your kids.
Going Back to School as a Single Parent
Right now, around 1.7 to 2.1 million single mothers are enrolled in postsecondary education across the U.S., making up about 11% of all undergraduate students. That’s a huge number, yet many still face barriers like high childcare costs (often exceeding $13,000 per child annually in some areas) and balancing full-time responsibilities.
The payoff is massive though: single mothers with a bachelor’s degree are over three times less likely to live in poverty compared to those with just a high school diploma (13.4% vs. 41.4% poverty rate). Education truly changes everything.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover federal grants like the Pell Grant (still maxing out at $7,395 for the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 award years), top private scholarships with 2026 deadlines, state-specific options, step-by-step application tips, and real strategies to stand out.
Whether you’re aiming for community college, a four-year degree, trade school, or even grad school, there’s support available. Let’s dive in and get you started on claiming the funding you deserve.
Why Scholarships for Single Mothers Matter More Than Ever in 2026?
Single moms often earn less while carrying the full load of parenting. Childcare alone can eat up a huge chunk of income, and many work low-wage jobs with unpredictable hours. Going back to school or starting college means higher earning potential—nurses, teachers, IT specialists, and business professionals all start with better pay and stability.
Scholarships level the playing field. Unlike loans, they won’t add to your debt burden. Many programs also offer mentoring, childcare stipends, or career coaching. Completion rates for single mom students are lower (around 28% earn a credential within six years), but targeted aid dramatically improves outcomes. With inflation and living costs still high in 2026, every dollar counts toward tuition, books, fees, and even transportation or tech needs.
Internal link suggestion: Link to your site’s “Balancing College and Motherhood: Time Management Tips for Single Moms” article here to keep readers on-site.
External links: Direct to official FAFSA (studentaid.gov) or scholarship databases like Bold.org and Scholarships.com for verified opportunities.
Federal Grants: The Foundation for Single Mother Success (Pell Grants and More)
Start with the biggest “scholarship-like” option: the Federal Pell Grant. For 2025-2026 and into 2026-2027, the maximum award remains $7,395. Single parents often qualify for the full or near-full amount due to how the Student Aid Index (SAI) calculation favors single-parent households using federal poverty guidelines. You don’t repay it, and it’s available for undergraduate studies (including first bachelor’s) at eligible schools.
Eligibility highlights: U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, enrolled at least half-time (part-time may qualify for less), demonstrated financial need via FAFSA. Single moms with low income and dependents have an advantage—poverty guidelines are higher for single-parent families.
Other federal options include the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) for extra need-based aid (up to $4,000 at participating schools) and state grants that pair with federal aid.
Pro tip: File your FAFSA as early as possible—priority deadlines vary by state but often October-December for maximum aid. Use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool for accuracy.
Top Scholarships for Single Mothers with 2026 Deadlines
Here are standout opportunities active or upcoming in 2026. Always check official sites for updates, as deadlines and amounts can shift.
Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Scholarship
Up to $5,000. For low-income women with minor children pursuing post-secondary education (first bachelor’s or lower). Deadline: August 1, 2026. Focuses on financial need and educational goals.
Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award
Up to $16,000 (local, district, national levels). For women who are primary providers for their families. Supports education/skills training. Deadline: November 15, 2026.
ANSWER Scholarship
Up to $5,500+ (some reports up to $22,000 over time). For single mothers 25+ in the Carolinas (Mecklenburg and surrounding counties). Includes mentoring. Deadline: February 28, 2026.
Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
Varies, significant awards (total pool mentions $32,000+). For women 35+ pursuing first bachelor’s, associate, or vocational degrees; low-income. Deadlines vary, often early year.
VSAC Bernice Murray Scholarship
$4,000. Single parents with custody of child(ren) 12 or younger, undergrad, part-time ok, financial need. Deadline: February 12, 2026 (check for extensions or cycles).
Stella H. Oaks Foundation
Varies. Single mothers with minor children at home, enrolled in programs increasing earning power. Next application summer 2026 (due ~March 14).
Colwell Law Group 2026 Single Parent Scholarship
$1,000. Undergraduate/graduate/law students or incoming freshmen; U.S. resident. Deadline: May 31, 2026.
Organic Formula Shop Single Parent Scholarship
$2,000. Single parents (moms/dads) attending college. Deadlines: June 10, 2026 (Fall) and later for Spring.
Live Your Dream – Utah Single Mother Scholarship
$3,000. Utah single moms, complete FAFSA, financial need. Deadline: April 10, 2026.
Bold.org Examples (like Poynter Scholarship $10,000, deadline Apr 1, 2026; single parent with school-age kids; or Law Family $10,000 for KY/IN single parents).
Many more exist on Bold.org (87+ listed), Scholarships.com, and Fastweb. Search by your state or field for hyper-local ones (e.g., Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund, Northwest Arkansas programs).
External link: Bold.org single mom page, Scholarships.com single moms directory.
State-Specific and Local Scholarships for Single Mothers
Don’t overlook state aid! Examples:
- Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund: Up to $1,600+ based on need.
- Single Parent Degree Program Scholarships of Northwest Arkansas: $2,500.
- Rhode Island’s Bruce and Marjorie Sundlun: Up to $8,000 for single parents.
- Massachusetts One Family Scholars: Coaching + funds.
- Check your state’s higher education agency or workforce commission for 2026 programs. Many require FAFSA and proof of single-parent status (custody docs, etc.).
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how:
- Gather documents: FAFSA info (now simpler with direct IRS transfer), tax returns, custody papers, school enrollment proof, personal statement/essay.
- Write a strong essay: Share your story—challenges overcome, goals for your family, why this scholarship. Be authentic; highlight resilience. Aim for 500-1,000 words where required.
- Get recommendations: Teachers, employers, or mentors who know your situation.
- Apply early and often: Use free platforms like Bold.org, Scholarships.com, Going Merry, Fastweb. No application fees for legitimate ones.
- Track deadlines: Set calendar alerts. Many 2026 deadlines run through summer/fall.
Tips to Win Scholarships for Single Mothers
- Highlight your unique story: Motherhood shows time management, multitasking, and motivation.
- Demonstrate need: Provide clear financial details without oversharing.
- Apply to 20+: Increases chances—many awards are smaller but add up.
- Use free tools: Avoid scams (never pay to apply).
- Seek support: Community colleges often have single-parent programs, childcare grants, or advising.
- Combine aid: Stack Pell + scholarships + state grants + work-study.
External links: Official scholarship sites + studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa.
Success Stories to Inspire You
Countless single moms have walked the stage with their kids cheering. Imagine a mom of five earning her law degree while raising her family, or a young mom graduating medical school with her child holding a sign saying “She did it for me.” These aren’t rare—they’re proof it’s possible. With the right funding, you can be next.
FAQs About Scholarships for Single Mothers
1. What are the best scholarships for single mothers in 2026?
Top ones include Soroptimist Live Your Dream, Patsy Mink, ANSWER Scholarship, and Pell Grants. Search Bold.org or Scholarships.com for location-specific matches. Deadlines span February to November 2026.
2. Can single mothers get Pell Grants, and how much?
Yes! Max $7,395 for 2026 award year. Single-parent status helps qualify via FAFSA. Part-time enrollment may reduce amount but still helps.
3. How do I prove I’m a single mother for applications?
Provide custody documents, divorce decree, or affidavit stating you’re the primary caregiver with no spouse contributing. Schools/scholarships specify requirements.
4. Are there scholarships for single moms going back to school later in life?
Absolutely—Jeannette Rankin (35+), ANSWER (25+), and many others target returning or mature students.
5. What’s the easiest way to find and apply for single mother scholarships?
Use aggregator sites like Bold.org, Scholarships.com, and Fastweb. File FAFSA first, then apply to 10-20 targeted awards. Free, no essays for some.
Ready to Change Your Future? Take Action Today
You’ve already proven you’re a warrior by raising your family. Now let scholarships for single mothers in 2026 fuel your next chapter. Start by filing your FAFSA at studentaid.gov today—it’s the gateway to Pell Grants and most other aid. Then browse Bold.org or Scholarships.com and submit applications for the deadlines coming up. Every application is a step toward more stability, better opportunities, and showing your kids what’s possible.
Share this guide with another single mom who needs it. You’ve got this—your education and brighter tomorrow are within reach. Apply now, stay persistent, and celebrate every win along the way.