Scholarship News

Barack Obama’s administration has a new campaign that encourages moms to go back to school. The US government is now offering scholarship grants to mothers who wish to complete their education and earn a degree. Many moms may not be aware of this new policy so now is the best time to learn more about this program and take advantage of it. Although the economy may be suffering from a recession at the moment, this is no reason to postpone going back to school and completing your education. If you are a mom, you should know that this is the best time to earn a degree so that when the job market bounces back, then you will be fully equipped to take on a new career and use your degree. Here are some of the policies introduced under Obama’s term that encourages mothers to go back to school and pursue higher education: Federal Pell Grants The Federal Pell Grant Program provides grants to low-income undergraduate and postgraduate students. It aims to promote access to higher education for everybody. Students can use this grant on more than 5,400 participating postsecondary institutions. In one of Obama’s first bills, the Federal Pell Grant was increased from $4050 to $5100; this is a great opportunity to not miss for single mothers who wish to get a baccalaureate or post baccalaureate degree. In order to apply for this grant, you first choose a degree then an institution that offers it. Once you are all set then you need to fill out and submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

With the new simplified process, FAFSA can now be completed and submitted online, this is very helpful for busy working moms who can now apply for grants while at the comforts of their home. Tax Benefits The American Opportunity Tax Credit is a tax benefit that is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 under Obama’s administration. According to it, Moms can credit their tuition and other school related expenses against their total tax liability. Up to 40% of the credit is refundable so mothers can really benefit from the savings. Online Study Grants Aside from the grants and tax benefits mentioned above that moms can use to support their education, there are also several scholarship grants available online. Studying online has become a trend these days especially for single moms or busy working mothers who have no time or have limited resources to leave their children to baby sitters while they go out and attend school elsewhere. This is why earning your degree through distance education and online programs are highly recommended. There are scholarships and grants made just for moms wishing to complete their degree that offer a lot more than the Federal Pell Grants. These financial aids are accessible online through several websites and search engines