How Moms Can Afford to Go Back to School

It can be very hard for moms to go back to school if they can’t afford it. Luckily, there are many different options for moms who are financially strapped but need to further their education. It’s important for each mother wanting to go back to school to keep in mind that this decision will give their children as well as themselves a better future and more opportunities down the road.

---

Local Schools

It’s important to begin looking for schools that are in their local area. When attending a local school such as a community college or instate university, the tuition rates will be much lower. Also, attending local schools will keep down commute costs and extra childcare costs, if needed. The ultimate goal here is to find a school that they will be able to afford.

Apply For Financial Aid   

After finding a school that is affordable, they should look into the financial aide options they have. If they are an accredited school, they should have a financial aide office that can help them get the ball rolling. Financial aid can assist their students with federal regulated grants and loans. Before anyone can get any type of financial aid, they will need to fill out a FAFSA application. It’s important to know that some of the financial aid opportunities will be based on current income.

Scholarships

Scholarships are a great way for moms to be able to afford to go to college. The best thing about scholarships is that this is totally free money. There are many different ways to be able apply and obtain a scholarships. Some options are essay submissions, high GPA, attending school for a certain degree and employment history.  Most scholarships will also have other requirements such as campus location, part time or full time status or even credits already completed.

The amount of the scholarship will vary depending on the person or company offering the scholarship. There are some that offer a couple hundred to help off set a book or two while others may offer assistance for a complete term. There are many $2,500 scholarship offered here.

Part Time Employment

Many moms will need to work at least part time while attending college. There are several different types of job that are flexible and will be able to work around a crazy college schedule. A few part time employment options are waitressing, baby-sitting or virtual work.  Another great option for mom wanting to go back to college is to check out the job board at the school. They will often have part time jobs working at the cashier station, administrative position and the bookstore. They will work around all class schedules and some may even let the student study while they are experiencing down time at work.

Child Care

Sometimes childcare can become an issue for many moms that want to go back to school. Many colleges offer discount childcare resources for people who qualify depending on their income. It’s the best to check with administration or financial aid for more information.