How To Get Free College As a Single Mom

Updated on 9/25/2025

Pursuing a college degree can open new career opportunities and help single parents build long-term stability. For many single moms, however, education costs feel like an impossible barrier, especially when balancing work and caring for a child.

The good news is that free schooling for single moms is possible. With funding via the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and federal Pell Grants, as well as nonprofit scholarship programs and employer tuition benefits, single mothers can often access higher education without overwhelming debt. With the right resources, you can reduce or even eliminate tuition costs and create a path toward a brighter future for your family.

Can You Go To School for Free as a Single Mom?

Yes, it is possible. While most college degree programs charge tuition, single moms can qualify for a mix of financial aid, state grants, and scholarships that make school free or nearly free. Federal programs like the Pell Grant cover much of the expense for low-income undergraduate students, and FAFSA helps determine your eligibility for these awards.

Many states also offer grant programs to residents, while nonprofits and private organizations fund single mom scholarships to meet financial need. On top of that, some community colleges and online programs provide tuition waivers to qualifying single-parent households. With the right combination of financial support, you can often complete a degree with little to no student loan debt.

How To Afford Going Back to School as a Single Mom

There are many ways to cut down or even eliminate education costs as a single parent. The options below highlight how you can combine federal aid, state resources, and private programs to make school more affordable while balancing family responsibilities.

1. Understand Your Financial Aid Options

The first step toward affordable education is learning about the different types of financial aid. This includes grants, loans, work-study opportunities, and college scholarships. For single moms, grants and scholarships are the most helpful forms of financial assistance because they don't need to be repaid.

The Federal Pell Grant is one of the most common awards for low-income undergraduate students. To find out if you qualify, you'll need to complete the FAFSA. Award amounts are based on factors like financial need, school costs, enrollment status (full-time or part-time), and your school year.

States also run their own grant programs. Many offer tuition waivers or additional scholarships for students enrolled at public colleges or a community college. Ask your school's financial aid office or check your state's department of education for details.

2. Look for Scholarships for Single Moms

In addition to federal and state aid, single mothers can benefit from targeted scholarship programs. These single parent scholarships are designed to reduce education costs while supporting your educational goals. Awards may be based on financial need, academic merit, or community service.

Some well-known options include:

• The Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation: Awards up to $5,000 for low-income women who are mothers.
• Jeannette Rankin Women's Scholarship Fund: Designed for low-income women 35 or older, including single moms, pursuing a college degree or trade school program.
• Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards: Provides up to $16,000 to women who are the primary caregivers in their households.
• Emerge Scholarship: Supports women returning to higher education after an interruption in their schooling.
• Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting: Offers aid for women pursuing accounting degrees.

When starting your scholarship search, pay close attention to application deadlines, eligibility requirements, and the types of scholarships available. Using a scholarship search engine can make finding opportunities easier, but always review the application process carefully. Some programs require essays, letters of recommendation, or proof of enrollment before awarding funds.

3. Explore Federal and State Assistance Programs

Beyond scholarships and grants, other types of aid can support single-parent households. For example, the Federal Work-Study Program gives college students part-time, flexible jobs so they can earn money while in school. This is especially helpful for single moms who need employment with family-friendly schedules.

You may also qualify for government-funded resources:

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): Provides direct financial assistance and may cover educational costs in some states.
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): While primarily for food, some states allow SNAP to connect students with training or post-secondary programs.
• State grants or waivers: Your state's department of education or local community college can explain grant program options available to single mothers. The U.S. Department of Education website also provides information about federal programs that can help with tuition, books, and childcare.

4. Consider Community Colleges and Online Programs

Community colleges and accredited online programs are some of the most affordable choices for single moms. Tuition is often much lower than at universities, and flexible scheduling allows you to balance class with work and parenting.

Many community colleges offer evening, weekend, or hybrid formats for working caregivers. Some even provide on-campus childcare services for single parents. Another benefit is transfer credit agreements, which let you start at a community college, save money, and later transfer into a bachelor's degree program.

Some high schools offer dual enrollment programs, allowing students to earn college credits while still in high school. If you're a single mom who hasn't yet completed high school, you could go to community college for free using this method.

Online education is another strong option, especially for part-time students. Accredited online colleges often provide financial aid, flexible pacing, and the same quality of coursework as in-person classes.

5. Utilize Employer Tuition Reimbursement Programs

If you're already employed, find out if your workplace offers tuition reimbursement or professional development funding. Many companies support employees who want to improve their skills through a degree program or certifications.

Even if your employer doesn't have a formal scholarship program, you may still be able to get financial support for education that benefits your role. Speak with HR about the opportunities available and how your coursework can align with company goals.

6. Seek Support from NonProfit Organizations and Community Resources

Nonprofit groups and local community agencies often provide single mothers with more than just encouragement; they also offer real financial assistance. Many nonprofit organizations run scholarship programs, distribute emergency funds, or connect you with grants to cover tuition, books, or living expenses.

Programs such as the Women's Independence Scholarship Program (WISP) give financial support to women pursuing higher education after overcoming life challenges. Local charities, churches, and Community Action Agencies (CAA) may also help with application deadlines, connect you to a grant program, or provide mentoring that makes the return to school less overwhelming.

7. Take Advantage of Tax Credits and Deductions

You don't always have to wait for direct scholarship awards to save money. Single moms can also benefit from tax credits for education. Tax credits like the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) or Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) can reduce your out-of-pocket education costs each school year. These credits are available whether you're a part-time or full-time student.

Deductions for tuition and fees can also lower your taxable income. While this isn't direct cash in hand, it reduces your overall education costs and helps you maximize your award amount from other financial aid programs.

8. Choose Online Colleges With Free or Low-Cost Tuition

Some accredited online colleges offer free or reduced tuition programs, especially for low-income or first-generation students. For single moms, this can mean the flexibility to learn on your own schedule without the added cost of commuting or housing.

These programs are often tied to financial aid or scholarship awards, making them practical for caregivers who need to balance coursework, family, and work. When reviewing options, check whether tuition-free or reduced-tuition schools require community service or a certain GPA to maintain your eligibility.

9. Apply for Child Care Assistance

Balancing classes with raising a dependent child is one of the biggest challenges for single moms. Fortunately, some colleges provide on-campus childcare centers or subsidies to ease this burden.

A key program to know is the Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) Grant. This federal Pell Grant-funded initiative helps low-income student parents cover childcare while enrolled in higher education. Having access to safe, affordable childcare gives single mothers the peace of mind to focus on their educational goals and degree program.

10. Use Housing and Transportation Assistance Programs

Managing housing and transportation costs can be just as important as covering tuition. Single moms have access to several programs designed to reduce these living expenses while enrolled in higher education.

Housing assistance programs:

• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program (HUD): Provides rent subsidies, capping rent at about 30% of income, while a voucher covers the remainder.
• Family Unification Program (FUP): A voucher program that helps single-parent households maintain stable housing while pursuing post-secondary education.
• College-Based Housing Support: Some schools, such as the University of Massachusetts Boston, partner with local housing authorities to give priority housing to student parents.

Transportation assistance programs:

• Campus Transit Passes: Many schools include free or discounted public transit passes in student fees. For example, Portland Community College offers discounted TriMet passes for bus and light rail.
• Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) + Transit Stipends: Some campuses pair CCAMPIS childcare grants with transportation stipends, easing travel costs for single moms.
• State or Local Programs: Cities like Chicago and New York offer free or reduced-fare passes for qualifying low-income students, including single mothers.

Best Degrees for Single Mothers Going Back to School

Choosing the right degree can make a big difference in how well you balance school, family, and future career opportunities. Single moms often look for programs that offer flexible schedules, strong job demand, and clear pathways to stable employment. These programs are also open to high school seniors planning ahead, as well as returning adult learners.

Nursing

Nursing degrees, whether an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), prepare you for in-demand careers with good pay and job security. Many programs offer part-time or online coursework, plus hands-on clinical experiences, making them a strong choice for single parents seeking steady career paths in health care.

Education

Degrees in education, such as early childhood education or elementary teaching, are a natural fit for caregivers who want to support children and families. These programs provide a clear educational opportunity for single mothers, leading to stable careers in schools. Flexible online courses and hybrid formats allow you to work toward licensure while managing family life.

Business Administration

A business administration degree is versatile, covering areas like management, accounting, and human resources. These programs are widely available online and at community colleges, which makes them accessible and cost-effective. A business degree also leads to multiple career options in offices, nonprofits, and even entrepreneurial ventures.

Information Technology (IT)

Technology continues to grow across industries, making IT one of the most practical fields for single moms. Associate and bachelor's degree programs in IT or computer science can often be completed through online or trade school pathways. These programs equip you with marketable skills that can lead to remote or flexible job opportunities.

Social Work

Social work degrees are especially meaningful for single parents who want to help others. A bachelor's degree in social work prepares you for roles in community agencies, schools, and nonprofits. These careers often align with family-focused values and provide steady employment while allowing you to pursue an advanced degree later if desired.

Healthcare Administration

For single mothers interested in the health field but not direct patient care, a degree in healthcare administration is a strong choice. Coursework focuses on leadership, management, and policy in medical settings. Many programs are offered online, making it easier to complete requirements as a part-time or full-time student while raising a family.

FAQs About Free College for Single Moms

Many single moms have specific questions about how to qualify for aid, what programs are available, and whether it's truly possible to access free schooling. Below, we've answered some of the most common concerns.

Is it Really Possible To Go to College for Free as a Single Mom?

While tuition is rarely waived for every student, single mothers can combine federal Pell Grants, state grants, and single mom scholarships to make school free or very low-cost. Many colleges also run tuition-free programs for low-income families, making higher education realistic for a single-parent household.

Can FAFSA Help Single Moms Go to College for Free?

Filling out the FAFSA form determines your eligibility for federal and state aid, including the Pell Grant. Combined with scholarships or tuition-free community college programs, FAFSA results can cover the majority - or sometimes all - of your education costs.

What Colleges Offer Free Tuition for Single Moms?

There aren't schools exclusively for single mothers, but many community colleges and universities offer Promise programs, tuition waivers, or scholarship programs that single moms can use. For example, some state colleges grant free tuition to low-income students who meet eligibility requirements.

How Can I Balance College, Work, and Family Responsibilities?

Single moms can balance school with family life by enrolling part-time, using on-campus childcare, or choosing online classes. Many schools offer flexible scheduling and support services for college students who are caregivers. Creating a weekly plan, asking for family support, and using community resources can also help manage the workload.

Do Single Moms Qualify for More Financial Aid?

Because financial need is determined by factors like income level and family size, single mothers may qualify for more need-based aid. This can include larger Pell Grants, state grants, or targeted scholarships. Some programs even cover child care or living expenses in addition to tuition.

What If I Don't Qualify for Financial Aid?

If you don't meet federal eligibility requirements, you still have options. Fill out scholarship applications and look into nonprofit grants and employer tuition assistance to reduce education costs.

Some schools also offer payment plans that spread tuition across the school year. In addition, exploring part-time enrollment may make expenses more manageable without relying solely on student loans.

Find Affordable Online Degrees

Free or low-cost college is within reach for single moms when you combine Pell Grants, scholarships, state aid, and community resources. Explore accredited online degree programs on Learn.org to find options that match your educational goals and family needs.