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Government Grants for Single Mothers - OnlineDegreeNewsAndViews.com

May 8th, 2009

With all the bad economic news, it may make it seem like this is a bad time for single mothers to go back to school. It simply is not true, though. Women all over the US are seeking help from the federal government through educational grants and loans. Here are a few of the ways they can help.

Pell Grant

Pell grants have been expanded for low income students. In fact, this was the first bill President Obama introduced when he took office. It increases the maximum allowable Pell grant from $4,050 to $5,100. President Obama is working hard to bring it up to $5,400, soon. The extended Pell Grant is one of the best government grants for single mothers wanting to return to college.

IRS Tax Credits for College Education

Single moms should also be aware of the educational tax credit. For example, The American Opportunity Tax Credit program has been designed to make sure that the first $4,000 of any individual’s higher education is free. This program accepts the prior years tax return and requires 100 hours of community service in exchange for the advantage.

How Do I Qualify for a Grant?

First, choose your school. Then fill out a federal FAFSA form, and submit it. If you want to make sure you apply for all the scholarships and grants for which you qualify as a single mother, check out some of the scholarship and grant matching services that will help match you to your ideal grant.

I Plan to Attend an Online College — Are There Grants for Me?

This is the best part yet! You can still qualify for Pell Grants and many others types of financial aid, even if you cannot attend classes in a traditional setting. Online college programs are also included in the federal aid programs. If you are in doubt, check with the financial aid office of the school to which you are applying, and see first what you qualify for, and next what kinds of academic programs it covers.

You may be surprised to find out just how much money is out there for you. And, we expect that more funds may be available as time goes by. Keep your eyes open for any news of scholarship and grant advances from the Obama administration, and by all means get out there and start applying for your degree program.

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