This may have come as a surprise, but there are actually several scholarships for women over 50 available in the United States. Getting a higher education level is one of the fastest ways to increase one’s salary, and that is a legit reason to pursue a degree. Moreover, women in this range of age are relatively ‘free’ from their responsibility to take care of their children and family.
Since the kids are all grownups now, it is the perfect chance to seize the opportunity for that dream once more. By completing a degree these women can have better self-esteem, confidence, and also better chance in career.
Foundations of Scholarships for Women over 50
However, the cost of education in United States is especially high. Statistics have shown that most people have to spend around $20,000 for a four year college education. There are several ways to cover the tuition cost, which include paying the tuition fee yourself, getting some grants and also scholarship.
Grants and scholarships are the most ideal option for most students. They are basically free money that can be used to cover a part of your education fees. Below are some of the foundations in United States offering either grants or scholarships for women over 50:
Talbots Women’s Scholarship Fund
This scholarship program is issued by the Talbots Charitable Foundation. There are several scholarships available for women who earned their high school diploma at least 10 years ago. Currently there are 60 scholarships available from this foundation. From that number, there are 50 $1,000 scholarships and 10 $10,000 scholarships. The deadline is rather fast, so you may want to submit your application as soon as possible.
AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship Program – http://www.aarp.org/aarp-foundation/our-work/income/womens-scholarship-program/
This scholarship program aims to help women over 50 who come from low income families. The scholarship is available for many sectors, including skill upgrade, training and also education. Hopefully these women can get better jobs and better life for their family. The low income criterion for this scholarship is maximum 150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines. There are some preferences given for the unemployed, people with low salary, and people with children, and veterans. The scholarship money will be transferred to the school directly for tuition, books and fees.
Government Programs
Some older students may think that they are automatically unqualified to become one of the awardees from the government’s student aid program. This is a misconception. You should submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) too, because this program doesn’t have age restrictions. To be eligible, you have to be financially needy and are currently pursuing undergraduate degree. Contact your college’s financial office and ask for the information about the scholarships for women over 50 from them. Hope that helps!
References :
- AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship Program : aarp.org/aarp-foundation/our-work/income/womens-scholarship-program
- Business and Professional Women’s Foundation Scholarships : bpwfoundation.org/index.php/about/scholarships
- Talbots Women’s Scholarship Fund : talbots.com/scholarship
- Image : huffingtonpost.com
