List of Grants for Women Going Back to College
Overview
Grants for women going back to college can prevent you from having to take out excessive student loans. Without such scholarships and grants, some women may not be able to attend classes at all. Before applying for a scholarship or grant, be sure you understand the income and age requirements that may apply to the awards program.
Executive Women International
Executive Women International offers a number of potential grants for women going back to college. The main program that might interest returning female students is called “Adult Students in Scholastic Transition.” The number and amount of awards offered varies each year, and the program is specifically designed for single parents or women just entering the workforce. Also, if you were laid off or otherwise “displaced” from your job due to the economy or a natural disaster, you may also be eligible to apply for scholarships programs through Executive Women International.
Executive Women International
- executivewomen.org
National Association of Women in Construction
You might consider pursuing a career in construction, and if you plan to do so the National Association of Women in Construction might offer you funds toward trade school or college. Single and married women alike may apply for funds, but must intend a career in some aspect of construction work.
National Association of Women in Construction
- nawic.org
Assistance League
The Assistance League is a national organization with branches in many major United States metropolitan areas. Some of its branches, including the Phoenix Assistance League, offer scholarships to women who plan to earn a bachelor’s degree. However, typically you must have completed 64 credits of work at a community college to be eligible for these types of awards.
Assistance League
- assistanceleague.org
The R.O.S.E. Fund
Unfortunately, some women returning to college have suffered domestic violence. The R.O.S.E. Fund aims to help such women regain and retain financial independence by offering scholarships to selected applicants. However, you must plan to attend a college in the northeastern United States. Women must have been out of their abusive relationship for at least one year, and supply statements affirming the history of abuse. Also, references must attest that the woman is now living in a safe place. A number of financial and academic documents are also required, including tax returns. The R.O.S.E. Fund earmarks about 80 percent of its scholarship funding for single mothers. Typical scholarships are for $2,000 per semester.
The R.O.S.E. Fund
- rosefund.org
AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship Program
If you’re a woman over the age of 40, you might consider applying for the AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship Program. Each year, the foundation usually offers 100 grants for women returning to college; typical awards range from $500 to $5,000. Recipients can use funds for technical school or to pursue a bachelor’s degree. However, you cannot use AARP Foundation scholarship funds to attend graduate-level courses or pursue an advanced degree.
Women with a history of significant financial hardship are given award priority. Also, women raising another relative’s child(ren) receive priority consideration in the application process. You need not join the AARP to apply for or receive an award.
AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship Program
Conclusion
Now you are armed with a partial list of the available grants for women going back to college. As you might have noticed, opportunities are usually more readily available for women pursuing a first-time bachelor’s degree. Also, be sure to ask your selected college if they have any scholarship programs earmarked for returning female students.
