Introduction
Scholarships for Women Returning to Education – Returning to education after a break, whether due to career changes, family commitments, or other life events, can be a daunting yet rewarding experience for many women. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships specifically designed to support women who are re-entering academia later in life. These scholarships provide financial assistance and encouragement to women who are determined to further their education and achieve their career goals. Below are some of the top scholarships available for women returning to education.
1. The Jeanette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
- Overview: Named after the first woman elected to the U.S. Congress, this scholarship supports low-income women aged 35 and older who are pursuing undergraduate degrees. It’s ideal for women who are returning to school to better their lives and those of their families.
- Eligibility: Open to women 35 years or older, U.S. citizens, and pursuing an associate’s or first bachelor’s degree. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.
- Award Amount: Varies based on financial need.
- Application Deadline: February each year.
2. The Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards
- Overview: This award provides financial support to women who are the primary financial support for their families and are enrolled in or have been accepted to a vocational/skills training program or undergraduate degree program. It’s particularly beneficial for single mothers and women returning to education.
- Eligibility: Open to women with financial need who are the primary financial support for themselves and their dependents, enrolled in an undergraduate degree program or vocational training.
- Award Amount: Regional awards of up to $5,000, with the opportunity for additional awards at the national level.
- Application Deadline: November 15th each year.
3. The P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education (PCE)
- Overview: The P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education provides need-based grants to women whose education was interrupted and who want to return to school to complete a degree or certification program. This program is ideal for women who are returning to school after a significant break.
- Eligibility: Open to women in the U.S. and Canada who have had their education interrupted and are returning to school to complete a degree or certification program.
- Award Amount: Up to $3,000.
- Application Deadline: Rolling application, but must be submitted at least 10 weeks before the start of the academic term.
4. The Talbots Women’s Scholarship Program
- Overview: Sponsored by the Talbots Charitable Foundation, this scholarship supports women who are pursuing undergraduate degrees later in life. The program is designed to help women return to college and advance their careers.
- Eligibility: Open to women residing in the U.S. who have earned a high school diploma or GED at least 10 years ago and are enrolled or planning to enroll in an undergraduate degree program.
- Award Amount: $10,000 to $30,000.
- Application Deadline: January each year.
5. The Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Scholarship
- Overview: This scholarship supports low-income women, particularly single mothers, who are pursuing education or training. It’s named after the first woman of color elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and is designed to help women achieve their educational goals.
- Eligibility: Open to women with minor children who are enrolled in a vocational training program, associate’s degree, first bachelor’s degree, or professional/master’s/doctoral degree. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.
- Award Amount: Up to $5,000.
- Application Deadline: August each year.
6. The AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship Program
- Overview: This program provides scholarships to women aged 50 and older who are seeking new job skills, training, and educational opportunities to support themselves and their families. It’s an excellent opportunity for women returning to education later in life.
- Eligibility: Open to women aged 50 and older who are pursuing education or training to improve their financial situation. Priority is given to women who have been out of the workforce for a while.
- Award Amount: Varies based on financial need.
- Application Deadline: Typically opens in the spring.
Conclusion
Returning to education can be a transformative experience, offering new opportunities for career advancement and personal growth. The scholarships listed above are specifically designed to support women who are returning to school, providing the financial assistance needed to achieve their academic and career goals.
Call to Action
If you’re a woman planning to return to education, explore these scholarships and apply early to maximize your chances of receiving financial support. For more resources and scholarship opportunities, visit ScholarFinds.com.
