The “Scholarship for Moms Program” has been a recurring topic of conversation these days. In the same vein, so has the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. In the ARRA, lawmakers have revamped funding for higher education, making grants, loans, and scholarships easier to obtain. ARRA also has allocated more money for financial aid, benefiting college students and hopefuls across the nation.
A considerable portion of this overhaul deals with the federal Pell Grant. The Pell Grant is a tuition grant designed to assist those with the lowest income. It targets those who make $20,000 a year or less (although families who make up to $50,000 can qualify also). The maximum allotment of the Pell Grant is being increased per student. During the current school year, 2009-2010, a student could be awarded up to $5,350 in grant money. Next year, 2010-2011, students have a maximum $5,500 benefit.
Only undergraduate students are eligible for Pell Grants with a lifetime limit of 18 semesters. Eligibility is not based on social factors (like scholarships) but is largely determined by the Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The student’s parents must apply on his/her behalf unless the student is over the age of 24, in the military, married, or a ward of the state. All applicants must possess a high school diploma or a GED.
Pell Grants, and other federal financial aid, can be applied for through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) found online or in any university financial aid office.
Grants are not the only form of financial aid available. Private and charitable organizations award scholarships and grants every day. Explore your options thoroughly to enjoy the benefits that last a lifetime.
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**Update**
Did you know you can get a $10,000 scholarship for Moms just for registering? Apply right now for free: Scholarships for Moms
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Mothers and All Women Are Going Back to School in Droves – Thanks to Obama’s $10,000 in Grants
