Going to college as a single mother is challenging. Cosmetology schools can be expensive, as can child care, and scheduling classes around the needs of a child can make it even more difficult. However, there are grants available for mothers in this situation. Women who want to go to cosmetology school do have options that can help them fund their education.
Federal Pell Grant
The Pell Grant can be applied to any educational track. Applying for the Pell Grant requires filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and using the Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) to determine financial eligibility. One benefit of applying for the Pell Grant is that it can be used for both full-time and part-time students. Many single moms go to cosmetology school part time.
American Association of Cosmetology Schools
The American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS) is a resource for single moms to use to find grants, scholarships and other aid when applying to cosmetology schools. The AACS partners with corporate sponsors to offer grants and scholarships to a number of students each year. Additionally, the AACS website provides information on request about the grants, as well as offers students information on various cosmetology schools around the country.
School Grants
Most individual schools offer financial assistance for single mothers. The financial aid office at any cosmetology school will have a list of available grants and scholarships for students to use. Talk to an adviser about grants that come through the school, through external sources and any other available benefits for single moms, such as on-campus day care and night classes.
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Writer Bio
Bailey Shoemaker Richards is a writer from Ohio. She has contributed to numerous online and print publications, including "The North Central Review." Shoemaker Richards also edits for several independent literary journals and the Pink Fish Press publishing company. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in creative writing from Ohio University.