StudentAdvisor.com's Single Parents Back to School Guide

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Single Parents Guide

GOING BACK TO SCHOOL: Real-life Single Parents & Their Determination for Higher Education

9 TIPS FOR ONLINE LEARNERS From Ashford University Provost Dr. Elizabeth Tice

REDUCE COLLEGE COSTS Other Ways to Save

PLUS

Eleven Scholarships for Single Parents

[ Editor’s Note]

la s a v u o s T n D ea Dear Readers, Here at StudentAdvisor.com we applaud all parents that go back to school, but for those who are single parents we stand up and cheer. The team has created this guide to help you get a good grip on some of the biggest issues you’ll face as you consider going back to school.

We’re also parents and students committed to offering genuinely useful help with the challenges you’ll face. This guide will give you a look at the lives of single parents like you, who have taken the leap, and are successfully balancing home, work and school; we’ll also give you life skills tips, information on where to find funding for your dreams, and link you to other resources that have a wealth of in-depth information that you use and put into practice in your life!

For starters, who better to get advice from than people who have gone through the experience themselves? Read Real Life Single Mom: Amber Sawyer, page 8. Make sure you get the scoop on Scholarships for Single Parents on page 18. And of course, the more you can bone up on your financial aid information, the better, FAFSA: Your Starting Point for Education Assistance on page 15 is your go-to article if you have any questions on how to pay for your education.

If you don’t have the time for the traditional college experience or even night classes, check out Nine Tips for Online Learning on page 25.

We hope our information makes the way a little clearer and easier to navigate. If you have any questions, we have hundreds of answers posted on StudentAdvisor.com, or simply ask your question on the site here.

Good Luck!

Dean Tsouvalas Editor-In-Chief dtsouvalas@studentadvisor.com

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[ Contents ]

18 | Scholarships Thinking about going back to school? Make that thought a reality

08 | Making it Work

Real life super mom, Amber Sawyer shares her story on how she balances being a student, mom and working professional.

FEATURES MAKING IT WORK 08 | Real Life Single Mom: Amber Sawyer Amber shares her

inspiration, her biggest challenge and how she is able to still have an everyday life.

12 | Real Life Single Dad: Jorge Narvaez A highly-motivated, inner-city high school student that faced gang life and the realization of death.

Why he chose the other path.

FINANCING 15 | FAFSA: Your starting point for Education assistance Common mistakes to be aware of and avoid at all cost.

16 | Paying for Your College Education A college degree may

open the door to increased earnings, advancement opportunities and benefits.

Here’s how to pay for it.

18 | Scholarships for Single Parents A listing of scholarships for single parents, including eligibility and application deadlines.

25 | 9 Tips for Online Learning Ashford University Provost, Dr. Elizabeth Tice offers sound insight into the world of learning online.

26 | Other Ways to Save

StudentAdvisor offers a few tips & tricks on other ways to save for college and negotiate for more financial aid.

21 | Project Working Mom: Laura Conley Meet a single mother of

two who lost her home and job in the wake of Hurricane Ike. She has been awarded an Ashford University full-tuition scholarship.

22 | Scholarships, Grants & Loans, OH my! Different forms of financial aid to suit your needs.

26 StudentAdvisor.com | Guide

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[ Going Back to School ]

YOU CAN Earn

Your College Degree!

AT STUDENTADVISOR.COM, we’re parents and students

committed to helping you with the challenges you’ll face as you consider going back to school. This guide will not only give you a look at the lives of single parents who are successfully balancing home, work and school, but will also give you advice, financial aid tips, and link you to other guides that offer a wealth of useful information. We hope this digital magazine makes your quest for higher education easier to navigate.

Living and learning

In today’s world, it is not uncommon to see students working toward a college degree while supporting their families. While balancing coursework with other responsibilities can be challenging, the rewards for seeking higher education are often much greater than the sacrifices. Here are some important ideas to consider:

SET REALISTIC GOALS. Take the time to really explore the degree program you are interested in, and the ways it may shape your career path. Ask yourself these questions:

• Are you going back to school to finish an education that you started some time ago, change your career, or learn a new set of particular job skills?

• What’s the average pay for the new career that you are working towards?

• Will this industry still need workers once you’ve graduated? Research the best accredited school and program for your needs.

• Where is the school? If you don’t have a car, can you get to campus easily by public transportation? How long will your commute be?

• How much time on campus will the program require? Will you be able to get childcare to cover the time you want to devote to your classes and schoolwork? HINT: Besides federal financial aid, look for grants and scholarships that provide funding for childcare and other living expenses.

Check out our Scholarship Secrets Guide.

• Would an accredited online program work better for you and your family life?

• Is there an admissions representative or professor at the school that can tell you about the program and what it will require from you?

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StudentAdvisor.com | Going Back to School: Single Parents

• Ask the school representative how much the program costs? What fees are there in addition to tuition?

• Ask the school representative for a financial aid officer who can walk you through the financial aid process?

Does the school have education grants or scholarships for single parents?

CONSIDER CHOOSING THE SCHOOL THAT WILL ALLOW YOU TO GRADUATE WITH THE LEAST AMOUNT OF DEBT. A college degree may be your ticket to the quality of life you want your children (and yourself) to have - but only if it doesn’t leave you worse off financially than you were before.

A Question of Balance

In order to make the most of your college experience, you will need to consider a variety of factors. Things you should think about include time management, child care, transportation, college tuition and fees, and money for schoolbooks. You’ll also need to keep your children educated, fed, clean, and rested while you juggle work and school. Here are a few tips to get you started: • Forget about perfection – it’s a myth best left to celebrity stylists or art directors who airbrush magazine covers. While you’re juggling your studies, the house won’t be spotless, your meals won’t always be homecooked, your clothes won’t always be wrinkle-free, and that’s perfectly fine.

• Build your support network. You’ll need all the help you can get to juggle the added responsibility of your coursework. Talk to your family and friends about your dreams and goals, and lean on them for emotional and hands-on support if they can provide it.

• Learn to plan ahead. Keeping organized and maintaining a schedule is a must when you’re balancing school, children and work.

• Pay attention to your health. This means getting the rest you need when you need it, eating healthy, and getting regular exercise.

• Keep your eyes on the prize. There will be setbacks and unexpected peaks and valleys, but they’re all part of the journey. Remind yourself often of the reasons you chose to pursue higher education and what it means to you.

Going Back to School: Single Parents | StudentAdvisor.com

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[ Subject Line]

: k r o W t i g n i k a M E F I L L A RE M O M E SINGL Rodgers Interview by Carly

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StudentAdvisor.com | Going Back to School: Single Parents

[ Making it Work ]

Amber Sawyer Q: Why did you to go back to school?

A: I got divorced a few years ago after marrying at

a young age and passing up the chance to go to college right after high school. I saw very quickly that there was no way that I could get a decent paying job without a degree, and I wanted to create a better life for me and my son.

Q: What type of degree are you working towards?

I’m very close to earning my associate’s degree and will be transferring into a bachelor’s degree program.

I am working towards my Bachelor of Science in Psychology, which will help me reach my goal of a career in human resources.

Q: How has your education helped you in your current career? I have noticed that people in management tend to treat me with greater respect because they know that I am striving for an education and they want to help me in any way they can. I am a good employee and they want to see me succeed so that they can utilize my new skills.

Q: How do you manage your time?

I always make sure that I don’t take on more than I can handle each semester. Being a mom with a full-time job, I usually take about 2 classes at a time. I check the syllabus beforehand, and try not to pair together two classes that have a large amount of reading. For example, I will take a math class while taking a humanities class because I know that I will have a large amount of reading in a humanities class, but not as much in the math class. I have also been able to gain a lot of extra credit hours through Cooperative Education, where I get credits for working. Taking my classes online gives me the opportunity to do my homework whenever I have the time for it – during lunch breaks at work, on evenings or weekends.

Q: How do you manage your finances?

I manage my finances the same way that I did when I was not in school – very carefully!

Q: What would you say has been your biggest challenge?

Giving up those lazy Sunday mornings! It really hasn’t been all that difficult because I take all of my classes

Amber Sawyer

online. Saturdays are reserved for spending time with my son. On Sundays I will sleep in a little, and then I do my homework in my pajamas. Now, that’s the way to get a college education!

Q: Who or what has been most helpful during your time at school?

Everyone around me has been very supportive. My significant other knows that Sundays are reserved for homework and he respects that. The management team at work has been very encouraging. Plus, I have other friends who are also in college and we cheer each other on and help each other when we need to.

Q: What advice do you have for other single parents who are considering going back to school?

Just do it! There is no better time than now, especially when it has been made so easy for us. With grants and financial aid, you don’t have to worry about money, and with online classes you don’t have to worry about class times cutting into your personal life. You really have no excuse not to!

Q: Any advice on financial aid or money management?

Go to fafsa.ed.gov.

Going Back to School: Single Parents | StudentAdvisor.com

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[ Subject Line]

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StudentAdvisor.com | Going Back to School: Single Parents

k r o W t i g n i Mak REAL LIFE D A D E L G SIN

[ Making it Work ]

By Kristin Luciani University of California, San Diego

Jorge Navaez

J

orge Narvaez is in his a fifth year pursuing a degree in ethnic studies, photography and literature. Jorge is one of the inaugural student members of Reality Changers, an organization established by Christopher Yanov in 1999 that is dedicated to supporting highlymotivated, inner-city high school students in the toughest of San Diego neighborhoods. The group helps with the academic and tutoring resources to become the first in their families to attend college. Reality Changers prepared Jorge for a university education, and thanks to scholarship support, Jorge is now working towards his bachelor’s degree at UC San Diego.

As a single father, Jorge faces challenges in pursuing his education that his fellow students do not encounter.

Jorge cares for his two daughters, ages five and one.

Before receiving his scholarships, Jorge was working 60 hours per week to support his family. “I struggled a lot with money,” said Jorge. “Rent is expensive around UCSD, and I had to take out loans just to put food on the table.” Receiving the scholarships relieved much of the financial burden for Jorge, allowing him to focus more on his studies. His grades greatly improved and he found a renewed excitement in learning. He picked up a minor in photography, discovering a hidden passion for the subject, and began research projects that combine photography with his ethnic studies major.

Scholarship support provided Jorge with the resources to take care of his young family while attaining a world-class education at UC San Diego. “The scholarships provided me with access to books, and helped me to pay for basic necessities like utilities and diapers,” said Jorge.

“ I would literally be dead if I wasn’t in school”

“Now I’m even able to buy little luxuries for my girls—a few toys now and then.”

Both Reality Changers and private support opened new opportunities for Jorge. “Scholarships cause a ripple effect of possibilities for gifted but under-resourced students,” added Jorge. “It’s important to give back to the place that got you to where you are now.”

Jorge is a first-generation college student in his fifth year at UCSD. Both of his parents immigrated to San Diego from Mexico. He has lived in San Diego since he was a 1 year old, however he was an undocumented immigrant until his freshman year at UCSD. Jorge is one of the first students to graduate from the Reality Changers program. He is still active with the organization, serving as the vice president of the Alumni Association and photographer, in addition to mentoring and tutoring students. “Seeing the program grow makes me grow,” said Jorge.

Through Reality Changers, Jorge participated in the UCSD Academic Extension program for high school students. He spent three summers taking college classes at UCSD and living on campus. After graduating, Jorge plans to obtain an advanced degree in his field. He is hoping to attend law school and study immigration and civil rights law.

Jorge’s current research combines photography, ethnic studies and literature. One of his projects involves interviewing deported women and documenting their experiences.

Jorge is hoping to continue his research over the summer.

He applied for the Chancellor’s Undergraduate Research Scholarship, and if he is fortunate to receive the award he will be able to continue his studies through the summer.

When he started at UCSD, Jorge was working 60 hours per week. He worked at Rubio’s and then the French Gourmet restaurants, trying to make enough money to support himself and his family.

Going Back to School: Single Parents | StudentAdvisor.com

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[ Financing ]

Your

starting point

for funding assistance.

After speaking with school officails, the FAFSA should alwasy be your next step.

Avoid these common mistakes.

L

isting the incorrect Social Security Number or driver’s license number. Double-check to make sure you have entered the digits and letters in the correct order.

Using decimal points or commas in numeric fields.

Don’t use them, and instead always round to the nearest dollar amount.

Forgetting to list your college. You need the federal school code for the college you plan to attend and list it, along with the codes for any other schools you’ve applied to.

Leaving blank fields. Enter a “0” or “not applicable” instead of leaving a blank field, since too many blanks may cause miscalculations and/or an application rejection.

Listing adjusted gross Income as equal to total income.

These are not the same figures, and in most cases the AGI is larger than the total income.

Entering the wrong federal income tax paid amount. You need to obtain your federal income tax paid amount from your income tax return forms - not your W-2 form(s).

Listing marital status incorrectly. On the day you sign the FAFSA, marital status is a required field of information, so only say yes if you are currently married.

Listing parent marital status incorrectly. If they remarried, you’ll need the stepparent’s information too.

Forgetting to sign and date. If you’re filling the FAFSA electronically, make sure to obtain your PIN from www.pin. ed.gov. Your PIN acts as your electronic signature and will be assigned to you only. If you’re filling out the paper FAFSA, be sure to sign and date it.

Leaving the question about drug-related offenses blank.

If you are unsure of something, find out before submitting the FAFSA rather than leaving it blank. A conviction doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from getting aid.

Don’t miss out on financial aid simply because you filled out the FAFSA incorrectly, or made one of the above mistakes. Double-check your application and more importantly - don’t miss the deadline!

Going Back to School: Single Parents | StudentAdvisor.com

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[ Financing ]

Financing YOUR Education

S

Source: U.S. Department of Education & FAFSA

upporting your household and raising your children is more than a full-time job in itself. You know that you can improve your overall circumstances by earning a college degree and opening the door to increased earnings, advancement opportunities and benefits. But how will you pay for college?

Federal Financial Aid

After talking to school officals, the student aid program from the U.S. government should be another stop when looking for money to pay for college. The federal government offers student loans, grants, scholarships, and a work-study program.

Always apply for federal financial aid and use every penny you’re eligible for before taking out a private loan. Federal financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

U.S. Department of Education Guidelines for Financial Aid Eligibility To receive federal student aid, you must meet certain requirements. You must: Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen.

Have a valid Social Security Number (unless you’re from the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, or the Republic of Palau).

Be registered with Selective Service if you are male and 18 to 25 years of age (visit www.sss.gov for more info).

Have a high school diploma or a GED Certificate, or pass an exam approved by the U.S. Department of Education.

B e enrolled, or accepted for enrollment, as a regular student working toward a degree or certificate in an eligible program at a school that participates in the federal student aid programs. ot have a drug conviction for an offense that N occurred while you were receiving federal student aid.

You must not owe a refund on a federal grant or be in default on a federal student loan.

You must demonstrate financial need (except for unsubsidized Stafford Loans).

FAFSA

To apply for Federal Financial Aid, you will need to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

You should fill out a FAFSA no matter what your financial standing; far more students are eligible than you’d think.

Filing a FAFSA will give you a clear idea of how much financial aid you’re eligible for.

Each FAFSA application period runs from January 1st of any given year to June 30th of the following year – for example, January 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011. This 18-month period provides financial aid coverage for the traditional September–to–May school year and ensures that summer sessions are covered along with the traditional academic year. That means there are two FAFSAs available at any given time – one for an academic year that’s half-over and one for an academic year that doesn’t start until July 1st.

Grant, Scholarship, or Loan?

What’s the Difference?

A Grant is a sum of money that does not have to be repaid, usually awarded based on the student’s financial need.

A Scholarship is a sum of money that does not have to be repaid, usually awarded on merit.

A Loan is a sum of money that has to be repaid with interest, just like any other loan or mortgage.

[ Financing ]

SCHOLAR$HIPS

for Single Parents

A

D

AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship

Denny’s Single Parent Student Scholarship

The AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship Program is for nontraditional students – women who are 40+ years old, and who are seeking new educational opportunities, job skills, and training.

American Association of University Women Career Development Grants or women with a bachelor’s degree preparing to advance F their careers, change careers, or re-enter the work force. pecial consideration given to women of color and women S pursuing their first advanced degree or credential in nontraditional fields.

Sponsored by Hispanic College Fund Eligibility Requirements: Must be of Hispanic background.

Must be a U.S. citizen or a U.S. Permanent Resident. ust be accepted or plan to enroll in a college, university M or technical school in the U.S. or Puerto Rico for the upcoming academic year. ust be (or plan to be) enrolled full-time as an M undergraduate student for the upcoming academic year.

or pursuing master’s degree, second bachelor’s degree, F or specialized training in technical or professional fields.

ust have earned and maintain a cumulative Grade Point M Average of no less than 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Distance learning programs are eligible.

Must demonstrate financial need.

pplication deadlines: varies depending on specific A grant or fellowship.

Must demonstrate he/she is a single parent.

Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund Scholarships for single parents living in Arkansas

ust agree to participate in program publicity, M if requested.

Amount of Each Scholarship: $500-$1,500

Specific eligibility requirements per county

Association of American Indian Affairs: Displaced Homemaker Scholarships

The Association on American Indian Affairs offers Displaced Homemaker Scholarships in the amount of $1,500 each to those men and women who would not otherwise be able to complete their educational goals due to family responsibilities. This scholarship is generally for older students who have put off college to raise their children and students who are returning to college after raising their children. Funds may be used to assist with childcare, transportation and basic living expenses in addition to educational costs.

Going Back to School: Single Parents | StudentAdvisor.com

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[ Financing ]

J Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund Eligibility Requirements:

A woman, age 35 or older A U.S. citizen Enrolled in, or accepted to, a regionally or ACICS accredited school ursuing a technical or vocational education, an associate’s P degree, or a first bachelor’s degree Low-income Applications available online November 1, 2010 for the 2011 school year: CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD A FORM

P

The Possible Woman Foundation International (PWFI) Scholarship Program

Focused on identifying special women – non-traditional students whose education was delayed or interrupted, individuals with a vision to succeed regardless of any obstacles that life has put in their way.

Applicants must be at least 25 years of age. dditionally, preference is given to women who A are pursuing their educational endeavors in the state of Georgia. his may include women who are returning to school after T a hiatus, changing careers, seeking advancement in their career or work life, and stay-at-home moms entering the work place and in need of additional education/training.

2011 scholarships available online in Fall 2010.

Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation For low-income women with children who are pursuing education or training.

R Royal Neighbors of America Scholarships for Women

Specific scholarships women aged 35 or older returning to school to advance their careers.

Eligibility requirements and deadlines vary.

S Soroptimist Women’s Opportunity Awards Through the program, clubs in 19 countries and territories assist women who provide the primary source of financial support for their families by giving them the resources they need to improve their education, skills, and employment prospects.

Eligibility Requirements: rovide the primary financial support for her family P (including children, spouse, siblings and/or parents) Have financial need re enrolled in or have been accepted to a vocational/skills A training program or an undergraduate degree program

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StudentAdvisor.com | Going Back to School: Single Parents

[ Financing ]

eside in one of Soroptimist International of the R Americas’ member countries/territories (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guam, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Taiwan, United States of America, Venezuela) ave not previously been the recipient of a Soroptimist H Women’s Opportunity Award; are not a Soroptimist member, employee or immediate family of either

L

By Debbie Mitchell

W Women’s Independence Scholarship Program

The objective of the Women’s Independence Scholarship Program is to help survivors of intimate partner abuse obtain an education that will in turn offer them the chance to secure employment, personal independence and self sufficiency. Support is available for full or part-time students interested in attending accredited programs at educational institutions listed below, in order of preference: tate supported S community colleges tate supported S colleges or universities Technical/ vocational schools rivate colleges P or universities Proprietary schools Requests for assistance are accepted on an ongoing basis.

aura Conley, a single mother of two who lost her home and job in the wake of Hurricane Ike, has been awarded an Ashford University full-tuition scholarship as a part of Project Working Mom. To earn the scholarship, Conley submitted an essay about Laura Conley her higher education aspirations.

Her entry was selected out of more than 6,000 prospective Ashford University applicants to the Project Working Mom scholarship program. Ashford University awarded 10 full-tuition scholarships.

In her essay, Conley, 43, wrote, “My children value education because I do. They achieve because I have.

They are internally motivated because I am. I model these things daily whether things have been really good or devastatingly crippling.”

Laura is the sole provider for her two kids, ages 11 and 14, and holds a bachelor’s degree and a passion for early childhood education. “We were homeless.

I struggled with insurance, FEMA and providing my children with some sense of stability,” Conley said.

With this scholarship, she is earning her Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education. She currently works for the Harris County Department of Education as an education coordinator. “I must have as much knowledge as possible to contribute and guide. It starts with credibility and my commitment to my own personal education. My goal was to have my doctorate before I turned 40 and unless there is a time machine I can borrow, I have well passed that timeline, but the goal for a doctorate is still present and strong.”

Ashford University is one of eight accredited online institutions donating more than 280 full-tuition scholarships worth nearly $5 million to the Project Working Mom campaign in 2010.

Applicants for this degree were asked to complete a short application at www.projectworkingmom.com and write an essay describing why an online degree is right for them.

Going Back to School: Single Parents | StudentAdvisor.com

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[ Financing ]

Scholarships

Grants &

LOANS OH MY! Different forms of financial aid to suit YOUR needs.

T

o apply for Federal Financial Aid, you will need to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You should fill out a FAFSA no matter what your financial standing; far more students are eligible than you’d think. Filing a FAFSA will give you a clear idea of how much financial aid you’re eligible for.

Each FAFSA application period runs from January 1st of any given year to June 30th of the following year – for example, January 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012. This 18-month period provides financial aid coverage for the traditional September–to–May school year and ensures that summer sessions are covered along with the

HINT:

Take the time to research grant and scholarship opportunities in your community, through your employer, and through any religious organizations you’re affiliated with. Private grants and scholarships may be available from community organizations, religious organizations, charities, other non-profit organizations, and professional and trade associations, so don’t be afraid to ask around.

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StudentAdvisor.com | Going Back to School: Single Parents

traditional academic year. That means there are two FAFSAs available at any given time – one for an academic year that’s half-over and one for an academic year that doesn’t start until July 1st.

Grants

Most grants are awarded on the basis of financial need and do not need to be repaid. The money you’ll qualify for will depend on basic eligibility requirements, including the number of dependents you have. To apply for any federal grant, you will need to file a FAFSA. The U.S. Department of Education offers a number of federal grants that you may qualify for, including:

[ Financing ] • Pell Grant: This is a need-based grant offer-

ing between $400 and $5,350 to eligible applicants. You must qualify for a Pell Grant in order to qualify for other federal grants.

• Academic Competitiveness Grant: The ACG

is a merit-based grant available to first- and second-year college students who have performed at a certain academic level in high school. An ACG awards up to $750 for first-year students and $1300 for second-year students.

• Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant: The FSEOG is a need-

based grant designed especially for students with the greatest financial need. Eligible students can receive awards between $100 and $4000.

• National SMART (Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent) Grant: The

National SMART Grant is a merit-based award available to 3rd and 4th year college students pursuing a degree in math, science, engineering, or one of the foreign languages designated as crucial for homeland security. Eligible students can receive up to $4000.

Individual states have separate financial aid programs with their own set of eligibility requirements, application processes, and award amounts. Some examples of state grant opportunities include.

• New York State’s Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): This grant awards up to $5,000 to eligible New York state residents.

• Kansas Comprehensive Grants: Between $100-$1,100 is awarded to eligible Kansas state residents.

• New Mexico Student Incentive Grant: Awards between $200 and $2500 a year to eligible New Mexico state residents.

Find the contact information for your state’s higher education department on the State Higher Education Agencies website.

Also, be sure to search the Internet to find other institutions that offer education grants specifically for women or single parents.

Scholarships

A college scholarship is similar to a grant in that it is a sum of money that you do not have to repay. Scholarships, however, are awarded more

for merit — achieving at a level defined by the scholarship sponsors — whereas grants are usually awarded more for financial need.

Because scholarships do not have to be repaid, there is a lot of competition for them. The more informed, organized, and thorough you are, the stronger your scholarship application will be. Fortunately, more and more schools and organizations are setting aside scholarships for single moms and dads.

Where to Find Scholarships

The federal government, private foundations, and non-profit organizations are legitimate and reliable sources for scholarships for single parents.

The U.S. Department of Education has a large database located at Student Aid on the Web, with grants and scholarships primarily from private organizations and individual schools. You can search for scholarships that are of interest to you by using relevant keywords.

Most, if not all, states also offer scholarships reserved for single parents. Different states have financial aid programs customized with their own eligibility requirements, award amounts, and application procedures. Find your state higher education agency at this site and see what scholarship programs they offer.

In many cases, state single parent scholarships are offered through a college or university system in the state. In addition to contacting your state higher education agency, you should contact the financial aid office of the school you want to enroll in and ask if the school offers scholarships (or grants) designed for you.

Keep in mind that single parent scholarships are need-based. All need-based scholarships will ask for proof of financial need and may also ask for proof of you being the custodial parent.

Many will require you to fill out a FAFSA.

Federal Student Loans

The federal student loan program offers students relatively low-interest, and in some cases, nointerest loans with flexibility regarding repayment terms. Student loans are a good way to pay for school once efforts to get grants and scholarships have been exhausted. Federal student loans for single parents include the Perkins Loan, Stafford Loan (subsidized or unsubsidized) and PLUS Loans for Graduate Students. You will need to file a FAFSA to apply for any federal student loan.

Q&A: Q: I am a single mom with one child and will get free day care for my child (from a grandmother, aunt, or free day care center) while I go to college.

Does the value of this free child care have to be reported on the FAFSA? A: No, this service is not income and the information is not collected on the FAFSA. However, note that you need to let your school know that you are receiving free dependent care; an allowance for dependent care may not be added to your cost of attendance.

HINT:

Check out our Scholarship Secrets Guide.

• Federal Perkins Loan The Federal Perkins Loan awards a maximum of $5350 per academic year starting July 1st Going Back to School: Single Parents | StudentAdvisor.com

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[ Financing ]

of 2009. For the upcoming school year (2010-2011) the Perkins Loan maximum award amount will increase to $5500. The Perkins Loan is available to undergraduate students. In most cases, the school disburses the money twice through the academic year; and students make payments directly to the school when the time comes to repay the loan. Loans are offered on a first-come, firstserved basis and preference is shown for students with high financial need.

• PLUS Loans for Graduate Students If you’re going back to school to earn your graduate degree, consider the PLUS Loan for Graduate students. PLUS loans require eligible applicants to file a FAFSA and determine their maximum annual Stafford Loan amount before being awarded the PLUS loan. There is a fixed interest rate and students must begin repayment on the loan on the date of the last disbursement. Applicants must provide a credit history prior to approval.

• Federal Stafford Loan (Subsidized and Unsubsidized) The Federal Stafford Loan is a low-interest loan available to undergraduate and graduate students. Loan amounts offer students between $3500 and $5500 per academic year with a fixed interest rate.

With a subsidized loan, the U.S. Department of Education pays the interest during certain specified times; for instance, while the student is in school. To receive a subsidized loan, students must demonstrate financial need. With an unsubsidized loan, the student pays the interest at all times.

Federal Stafford Loans are available through The William D. Ford Direct Loan (Direct Loan) program which offers students the loan directly through the U.S Department of Education. Students make payments directly to the US Department of Education.

Other Student Loan Sources

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StudentAdvisor.com | Going Back to School: Single Parents

• State Financial Aid State governments also provide financial aid for college, with eligibility typically based on your FAFSA. Every state has different programs and policies, which may include grants and scholarships as well as student loans. State financial aid application deadlines are usually much earlier than the federal deadline so submit your FAFSA as soon as you can after January 1st.

• Privately-sourced Financial Aid Banks and financial institutions are the most common source of private financial aid, in the form of private student loans.

Generally, private loans are not as advantageous to students as federal loans, so make sure to research interest rates and loan terms and conditions.

Dr. Elizabeth Tice, Provost at Ashford University

TIPS FOR ONLINE LEARNING

By Dr. Elizabeth Tice, Provost at Ashford University 1 RELEVANCE Flex your thinking and learning muscles by listening and being open to new ideas, accepting feedback and asking questions in your Web dialogue. These activities will increase the relevancy of your classes.

2 READINESS Lifelong learning requires you to be self-directed and self-motivated. Make your decision to return to school based on self knowledge, not just from the encouragement of others.

3 READINESS II So important, it was written twice. Quickly understand the writing process and your class’ writing requirements.

As an online student, writing is your sole means of actively participating, building relationships and demonstrating active learning in an online environment.

4 RESTRUCTURING Rearrange your life so that you have time to devote to your studies. Online learning removes the travel, parking and childcare issues related to driving to a brick-andmortar campus, but there is no getting around the fact that you will have to carve out time to read, write, think and interact with instructors and peers.

5 REASONING Sharpen your critical thinking skills by identifying and challenging assumptions and exploring alternatives. As an online student, you are expected to engage in this higher-order of thinking.

6 RESPONSE Discover which type of learner you are – visual, auditory or kinesthetic (learning by carrying out a physical activity). Becoming an engaged learner requires that you recognize techniques that develop and support your learning style.

7 RESOURCES Use the course syllabus to identify the overall purpose of the class and what you should learn or be able to perform by the end of the course. Within your degree program, look for ways in which learning from one course leads to, or builds on, learning in other courses.

8 RELATIONSHIPS Online learning should never be an isolating experience.

Many students use social networking platforms as part of their daily lives and see the online classroom environment as an extension of their private lives.

9 REFLECTION Apply what you learn to a new setting. Reflective activities allow you to clarify what you’ve learned, formulate intentions and solidify plans for meaningful growth and change.

Interested in Online Education? [ Learn More Now ]

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Can you Negotiate your Financial Aid Offer?:

W

hen you are just looking at colleges, before you even apply, stop by the financial aid office. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the process and introduce yourself to the financial aid officer there so they understand your story, why you love the school so much, and anything from a financial need standpoint that they might need to know. Financial aid officers typically don’t hear from anyone until they’re upset, or they haven’t gotten the package they need. The reality is, financial aid officers are getting a lot of calls, and while they genuinely want to help, there’s a limited amount of money. Notifying them of your situation early on, and enabling them to put a face with a name, may help your case if the package you get back isn’t what you expected.

Also, inform your college that you need more financial help.

So many students assume that their initial financial aid offer is final and there’s nothing else they can do after it has been sent out. While there are no guarantees, the worst thing to do would be to do nothing.

Make sure the financial aid office knows if anything has changed. Now is not the time to be modest or embarrassed.

You want to be as honest as possible if a parent has lost their job or if a drastic health issue resulted in big hospital bills. The financial aid office cannot help if they don’t know about these situations. They will try everything they can to accommodate families that are in difficult situations.

If you have highly attractive financial aid offers from other schools, do some negotiating. The goal of financial aid is to help students pay for school, but it’s also a recruiting tool. For colleges, being able to offer really attractive scholarship and financial aid packages is a key way for them to differentiate themselves from other institutions. Go back to the school and reiterate that you want to go to their school but you are struggling. Ask them for additional help. If they want you and the money is available, they will do everything they can to make that happen. The key here is to be respectful, but it’s ok to be persistent. They’re not going to take away your offer for asking as long as you do it in a way that’s professional and respectful.

OTHER WAYS TO SAVE: REDUCE COLLEGE COST While in college you can try to reduce: • Housing accommodations – is off-campus housing more affordable for you?

• Books and materials – can you rent or borrow textbooks?

• Travel – is it less expensive for you to go to a college in your city?

• Advanced placement courses – if you score well in APs, can you shrink your attendance from 4 years to 3?

• Work on campus – if your work study was not part of your financial aid package, can you work elsewhere on campus to earn money?

• Community colleges – can you keep your costs low by taking core classes your first year and then transferring out?

Don’t Forget About Tax Credits!

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides tax credits for students that can be an additional help in keeping your financial situation afloat. The American Opportunity Credit is a maximum annual tax credit of $2,500 per student that is available to individuals whose modified adjusted gross income is $80,000 or less, or $160,000 or less for married couples filing a joint return. The credit is phased out for taxpayers with incomes above these levels.

The Lifetime Learning Credit is another way to help pay for your post-secondary education. Here’s what the IRS says about this credit: “For the tax year, all students may be able to claim a lifetime learning credit of up to $2,000 ($4,000 for students in Midwestern disaster areas) for qualified education expenses paid for all students enrolled in eligible educational institutions. There is no limit on the number of years the lifetime learning credit can be claimed for each student. However, a taxpayer cannot claim both the Hope or American Opportunity Credit and lifetime learning credits for the same student in one year. Thus, the Lifetime Learning Credit may be particularly helpful to graduate students,

NOTE: The new American Opportunity Credit has replaced the Hope Credit for most taxpayers.

However, a larger Hope credit ($3,600 maximum) is available for students meeting the special rules for the Midwestern disaster areas.

In order to claim the Hope Credit, you must:

• Claim the Hope credit for at least one student attending an eligible institution in a Midwestern disaster area, and • Choose not to claim the American opportunity credit for any student in 2009.

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Best Approach to Negotiate for More Financial Aid 1. C onvey your message in person, but bring written backup. Paying for college can be an emotional process and it’s always best to present your case in person. However, for the paperwork and consideration to be done, they will need written proof that you are in need of more financial aid.

2. Present your situation in a clear, articulate way. Being disorganized or not being able to communicate why you are in need of additional assistance will only delay the process, or they may not be able to help you at all.

3. Be polite. Getting frustrated and angry will only worsen the situation. Financial aid officers take a lot of heat with other students and their parents. Give them a refreshing experience by maintaining a cool, calm discussion and they should be more willing to work with you.

4. Remember that you’re going to school for more than a year.

Chances are you may have to do this again for the next few years, so be sure to leave a positive impression on the financial aid office. from previous page... students who are only taking one course and those who are not pursuing a degree.” Generally, you can claim either the American Opportunity Credit or the Lifetime Learning Credit by meeting these three requirements: • You pay qualified education expenses of higher education.

Next Steps

• You pay the education expenses for an eligible student.

se StudentAdvisor.com’s Match tool to U search for schools that meet your needs.

•T he eligible student is either yourself, your spouse or a dependent for whom you claim an exemption on your tax return.

rowse through the different schools that B match your selected criteria.

There’s no double dipping. If you’re eligible to claim the Lifetime Learning Credit and the American Opportunity Credit for the same student in the same year, you can choose to claim either credit, but not both.

Education credits are claimed on Form 8863, Education Credits (Hope and Lifetime Learning Credits). For details on these and other education-related tax breaks, see IRS Publication 970, Tax Benefits of Education.

Need more information? Go to: www.irs.gov

Read reviews and ask questions! equest information directly from the R schools that interest you.

L earn more about how to fund your education. Check out our: • Scholarship Secrets Guide

lso check out EducationGrant.com for A additional information on financial aid.

Going Back to School: Single Parents | StudentAdvisor.com

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