subject: Moms: Want to Go to School? Apply for a Scholarship [print this page] Moms: Want to Go to School? Apply for a Scholarship
Have you been hit hard by the economic crisis? If you watch news programs then you know you're not alone. Many people have lost jobs, and finding new employment has been difficult. For new workers and young professionals, the outlook in many areas is filled with few prospects. By many projections these dismal circumstances could continue for many more months or even years. On the bright side, new economic ideas are a positive result of such tough times. Providing opportunity for more people to own their home is just one way Congress and President Obama have tried to help citizens and the flailing housing market. The President and Congress have also focused on education. Making sure institutions perform well on all levels is important, and there has been particular attention paid to colleges and universities. The administration's Grants for Moms initiative is just one development. Moms play crucial roles in the lives of their children so it's a no-brainer to provide education opportunities for them to care for their families. Federal Pell Grants allow mothers to obtain these scholarships. The Pell Grant maximum award is a substantial $5,000. With $5,000 moms can pay for any number of school-related costs. Education and school-related expenses vary, but most are acceptable ways to spend the grant money. The grant also allows for flexibility in choosing a school. Grants for mothers can be used at 2- and 4-year institutions as well as some online options. The first step to get any financial aid is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. This online application is necessary to be awarded any federal grants. The FAFSA site can instruct you how to fill out that form as well as direct you to other potential sources of financial aid. You may even find other tax credits or scholarships that you didn't know about. Checking a school's financial aid web page or calling the office is also a good way to get information about available money. In the realm of education, scholarships and grants are a key component for a strong system. Educating mothers benefits them and their families for years to come as well as the working world in general. Of course education's impact on families now and in the future is the primary function of the President's grants for mothers. One key to the future is to provide educational opportunities and to gain knowledge now.
