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Edited By: Scholarships for Single Moms
Key takeaways:
- Scholarships for single moms are typically offered to female students who lack a partner in their household and are the primary caregiver and provider of at least one child.
- Many of these scholarships consider both academic merit and financial need. However, single mothers demonstrating financial hardship are typically prioritized.
- Some scholarships offer mentorship, internship opportunities, and other forms of support to single mothers beyond financial aid.
According to the Institute for Women's Policy Research, the number of single mothers in college has more than doubled since the start of the 21st Century, and now represent around 11% of undergraduates. However, over half of these students leave school before earning a degree or certificate.
This is largely due to the responsibilities that come with being a single mother. While some students can pour all of their energy into their courses, these mothers must also balance childcare and other household responsibilities. On top of this, many single mothers still need to work to support themselves, their education, and their children.
Scholarships and other types of financial aid can drastically lessen this burden, allowing these women to focus on their studies and set themselves and their families up for success post-graduation with minimal debt.
The 25 Best Scholarships for Single Moms with Approaching Deadlines in 2025
What are scholarships for single moms?
Scholarships for single moms are forms of financial assistance awarded to female students who both lack a partner in their household and are the primary caregiver of at least one child.
However, it is important to note that each scholarship’s criteria is unique and may have different qualifications. You may be eligible for some scholarships for single moms, but not others. If you are unsure whether or not you qualify for a certain scholarship, contact the scholarship provider directly.
How to apply for scholarships for single moms
When you create a free account and conduct a scholarship search at Scholarships.com, you will be automatically matched to any scholarships for which you qualify, including scholarships for single moms.
Many of these scholarships, especially ones with need-based components, require students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you have not yet filled out the FAFSA, then you might not qualify for a given scholarship.
Submitting the FAFSA does not mean you have to take out federal student loans; it just means that you are sending your financial information to the schools, grants, and scholarships you are applying to so that they can decide what kind of financial aid you are eligible for.
What are the best scholarships for single moms?
The best scholarship for you will vary depending on your personal experiences, qualities, location, and more. However, as a general rule of thumb, scholarships that are geared towards a smaller segment of that population, of which you are also a part, will be easier to win as there will likely be fewer applicants.
For example, over 60% of applicants interviewed are awarded the $22,000 ANSWER Scholarship Endowment. However, the recipient must meet all of the following requirements to be eligible for an interview: female, 25 or older, primary caregiver to a school-age child, legal resident of Mecklenburg, NC or a surrounding county, and full-time student at an institution in one of those counties. They must also be committed to attend future events and workshops, meet regularly with a mentor, and maintain a 2.5 GPA or higher.
As it may be difficult to meet a given scholarship's niche requirements, it is also recommended to look into scholarships that pull from larger applicant pools as well. For example, the Patsy Takemoto Mink Foundation Scholarship is a $5,000 scholarship given to low-income mothers. Applicants only need to have a child under 18 and be actively pursuing a degree or credential at the postsecondary level.
Another option is the Soroptimist's Live Your Dream Award, which awards women who are the primary financial support for their dependent(s) with up to $16,000 to help offset tuition costs, purchase books, get transportation, and find reliable childcare. Applicants must be mothers who demonstrate financial need and are enrolled in or accepted to a vocational or an undergraduate program.
Frequently asked questions about scholarships for single moms
The definition of a single mother will vary by scholarship. That being said, a single mother is generally described as someone who lacks a partner in their household and is the primary caregiver and provider of at least one child under 18.
However, if this definition does not fit you, there may be scholarships that better represent you and your situation. For example, the Dr. Wynetta A. Frazier "Sister-to-Sister" Scholarship is awarded to African American students who take on the parenting role for one or more of their siblings.
There are also many single parent scholarships and scholarships for moms that you may be eligible for. If you are unsure whether or not you qualify for a given scholarship, contact the scholarship provider directly.
When you create an account on Scholarships.com and add your demographic information, you will receive a list of scholarship opportunities tailored to you, including ones for single mother students if applicable. However, if you prefer to use our scholarship directory, you can search for awards in specific categories without making an account.
Many single mothers attend school part-time so they can work, support their children, and take out fewer loans. Although the majority of scholarships for single moms require full-time attendance, some may still accept part-time students.
Additionally, although not specifically for single mothers, scholarships for adult students are often geared towards "non-traditional" students such as students who are parents, in school part-time, or above the age of 25.
If you cannot find adequate scholarship funding as a part-time student, you can still qualify for federal student loans. Just make sure you do not drop below part-time status so that you remain eligible for federal financial aid.
Brainstorm other unique qualities and experiences you have and try to find awards that suit those characteristics. You can search for scholarships related to your race, ethnicity, or other distinguishing factors. For example, there are many minority scholarships, LGBTQ+ scholarships, and need-based scholarships that may be fitting.
Scholarships specific to your state, major, and age can further refine your search and increase your chances. Even if a scholarship is not explicitly for single mothers, you should still mention your status in your application if there is an opportunity to do so. This could help you stand out among other applicants.
Scholarships are one of the best kinds of financial aid because they do not need to be repaid at any point. However, scholarships are not always enough to cover all college expenses, and it is sometimes necessary to turn to other types of financial aid. This includes work-study programs, federal and private student loans, or income-share agreements.
You may also be eligible for federal and state grants; however, you will have to complete the FAFSA to be considered. This might also qualify you for subsidized federal loans, which do not accumulate interest while you are in school or during deferment periods.
Completing the FAFSA can make you eligible for more awards through your university or institution. Contact your college’s financial aid department if you have any questions or are having trouble completing the FAFSA.