Grants and Scholarships

Moms who decide to enter college should be emotionally, psychologically, physically, and last but definitely not least, financially ready. More often the not, the financial aspect is the most difficult to prepare for. With all the economic blows our country is taking in, it is difficult to spare some money for something beyond the most basic needs. But, there's no need to fret. Free college scholarships and educational grants are here to help.

What is a Grant?

Grants are monetary aids provided to individuals or organizations, usually from the federal or state government. Grants are typically need-based, which means that it is the financial component that determines if one is eligible for it.

What is a Scholarship?

Scholarships are basically awards granted to students. They are sometimes referred to as "financial aid awards". Scholarships usually cover tuition and other school fees. It may or may not provide allowances for board and lodging, books, and personal expenses. Scholarships are handed out based on a criterion which mirrors the standards of the donor. Usually scholarships are categorized as merit, need, sociology, institutional, and general.

There are many types of Scholarships and below is a quick breakdown and description of each one...

Merit: Merit-based scholarships are given to students who excel in the fields of academics, athletics and arts. In addition, most scholarships are based on merit.

Need: Some scholarships specifically reach out to financially challenged individuals. Need-based scholarships may also cover living costs aside from tuition fees. However, applicants for this type of scholarship must show sufficient proof of financial need in order to qualify.

Sociology: Sociology-based scholarships are offered to individuals based on gender, race, religion or nationality. Most of these scholarships are provided by non-government organizations whose advocacy includes equality for the marginalized sectors of society. There are specific organizations who provide grants and scholarships to young moms, single moms, older women, and African-American women who are going back to college.

Institutional: Institutions such as colleges and universities also award scholarships to prospective students. If you have a college or university in mind, it would be good to get in touch with the admissions office to inquire about institutional scholarships.

General: Some companies or corporations give scholarships, based on their own standards, to the children of their employees. This type falls under the general category.

Comparing Scholarships & Grants...

Do you know that up to 70% of the total number of college students have scholarships, educational grants or other student aids to back them up? According to the US Census Bureau, 18.4 million students are enrolled in colleges and universities nationwide. Therefore, if you do the math, only 5.52 million students are independent of financial aids. In other words, college is indeed a financial challenge.

Although grants and scholarships seldom cover 100% of school expenses, they can definitely give any college student the financial boost they badly need. Grants and scholarships will allow college students to go on with their schoolwork without worrying about their tuition or other school fees.

As previously stated, grants are typically need-based. Applicants with greater financial needs are more prioritized. On the other hand, scholarships are not awarded based on need alone. There are types of scholarships that are awarded based on skills, gender, nationality, or any factor the donor deems appropriate.

Take note: Some scholarships come with a "bond". It is a contract that requires the scholarship recipient to work for the donor over a period of time. In case of non-fulfillment, the recipient will be required to pay a certain amount of money.

Definitely, grants and scholarships are indispensable aids to both aspiring and continuing college students. With their help, college moms can sail through school without worrying about tuition and other school fees. Fortunately, the State or Federal government provides student assistance to deserving applicants. To get started with your scholarship or grant application, learn everything you need to know about FAFSA.

So, spare some time and register with Scholarships4Moms. You may be the lucky winner of our $10,000 scholarship!