Education Grants for Single Mothers in Maine
Maine Education Grants for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff Guide (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
This is a fast, practical guide to every major education grant and tuition help program available to single mothers in Maine, with exact amounts, deadlines, and how to apply fast. All figures link to official sources and were verified for 2025.
Quick help box
- File the FAFSA now for Pell Grants and the Maine State Grant. Free one‑to‑one help: call FAME at 800‑228‑3734 (option 4) or 207‑623‑3263. Use FAME’s FAFSA help and contact page to book a coaching session. (famemaine.com)
- Maine State Grant: up to 2,500∗∗(half‑timeupto∗∗2,500** (half‑time up to **1,250) for 2025‑26. File FAFSA by May 1, 2025 to be considered; SAI must be ≤ 10,000. Details: Maine State Grant (FAME). (famemaine.com)
- Competitive Skills Scholarship Program (CSSP): up to 10,000/year∗∗full‑time(or∗∗10,000/year** full‑time (or **5,000 part‑time) for tuition, fees, childcare, books, transportation. Apply via your CareerCenter or the CSSP portal. CareerCenter hotline: 1‑888‑457‑8883. (maine.gov, mainecareercenter.gov)
- HOPE (Higher Opportunity for Pathways to Employment): for low‑ to moderate‑income parents in college or training. 2025 income limit is 225% FPL (see table below). Covers tuition gaps and supports; apply through HOPE at DHHS. Program line: 207‑624‑4170. (maine.gov, www1.maine.gov)
- Child care while you study: Maine’s Child Care Affordability Program (CCAP) now serves families up to 125% of State Median Income; copay is 0%–10%. Call 1‑877‑680‑5866 or 207‑624‑7999 and apply online from the CCAP page. Income chart PDF below. (maine.gov)
- SNAP Employment & Training (if you get SNAP): can pay up to 6,000/year∗∗tuition(full‑time)or∗∗6,000/year** tuition (full‑time) or **3,000 (part‑time) plus transportation (typically up to $50/week) and more. Ask a SNAP E&T provider via the OFI Call Center 1‑855‑797‑4357. Rules: 10‑144 CMR Ch. 609 §8. (casetext.com, maine.gov)
- Need a guide, not just a list? Free, trusted advising for adults: Maine Educational Opportunity Center (MEOC). Toll‑free 1‑800‑281‑3703. They help with FAFSA, admissions, and picking programs. (meoc.maine.edu)
Quick reference cheat sheet (scan this first)
| Program | What it pays | Key amounts (2025) | Who qualifies | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Tuition/fees; some living costs via your aid package | Max 7,395∗∗(2025‑26);min∗∗7,395** (2025‑26); min **740 | Based on FAFSA and Student Aid Index | File FAFSA at StudentAid.gov; see Pell amounts (FSA). (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| Maine State Grant (FAME) | Tuition | Up to 2,500∗∗(half‑timeupto∗∗2,500** (half‑time up to **1,250); SAI ≤ 10,000; FAFSA by May 1, 2025 | Maine residents, at least half‑time, first certificate/associate/bachelor’s | File FAFSA; see Maine State Grant page. (famemaine.com) |
| CSSP (MDOL) | Tuition/fees not covered elsewhere; childcare, books, transport | Up to 10,000/year∗∗full‑timeor∗∗10,000/year** full‑time or **5,000 part‑time | Income under 200% FPL, training in high‑wage in‑demand job | Apply via CSSP or your local CareerCenter (1‑888‑457‑8883). (maine.gov, mainecareercenter.gov) |
| HOPE (DHHS) | Tuition gap and school‑related supports | Income ≤ 225% FPL (see table below); supports like books, transport, tech (caps vary) | Parent/caretaker 16–64 enrolled ≥ half‑time; not on TANF/PaS | See HOPE: Do I qualify?. Call 207‑624‑4170. (maine.gov) |
| CCAP (DHHS) | Child care subsidy while you study/work | Initial eligibility ≤ 125% State Median Income; copay 0%–10% | Maine resident; in school, training, working, or retired guardian | Apply via CCAP page. 1‑877‑680‑5866. Income chart linked. (maine.gov) |
| SNAP E&T | Tuition, books, fees, mileage, childcare | Tuition up to 6,000FT/6,000 FT / 3,000 PT; transport up to $50/week (mileage at state rate) | SNAP recipients in approved training | Ask SNAP E&T provider; see 10‑144 CMR Ch. 609 §8. OFI Call Center 1‑855‑797‑4357. (casetext.com, maine.gov) |
| TEACH Grant | Up to $3,772/year if you teach in high‑need field at low‑income school (else converts to loan) | Sequester‑adjusted to $3,772 for Oct 1, 2025–Sep 30, 2026 | FAFSA required; specific service agreement | See FSA FY26 sequester notice. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| MaineCF Adult Learner Scholarships | Scholarships for adult students | Typically 1,000–1,000–2,500/semester (long‑term); short‑term 200–200–1,500 | Maine adult learners; various county/field preferences | See Maine Community Foundation: Adult Learners. (mainecf.org) |
| Student Loan Repayment Tax Credit (Maine) | Refundable state tax credit while repaying student loans | Up to 2,500/year∗∗,∗∗2,500/year**, **25,000 lifetime | Live and work in Maine; earned degree after 2007; minimum earned income | See MRS SLRTC page. (maine.gov) |
Start here: file the FAFSA (it unlocks Pell + Maine State Grant)
- Action: File the 2025–26 FAFSA now. If your time is tight, call FAME at 800‑228‑3734 (option 4) for a 30‑minute coaching session and get it done on Zoom. It’s free. FAME contact and FAFSA help. (famemaine.com)
- What you could get:
- Federal Pell Grant up to $7,395 (2025‑26). You don’t repay grants. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Maine State Grant up to 2,500∗∗(half‑timeupto∗∗2,500** (half‑time up to **1,250) if your FAFSA Student Aid Index is ≤ 10,000 and you file by May 1, 2025. (famemaine.com)
- Reality check:
- FAFSA can take 30–45 minutes if you have your 2023 taxes handy. If you’re separated or divorced, FAFSA’s “Who’s my FAFSA parent?” tool helps. If you hit a snag, let FAME walk you through it—don’t guess. (famemaine.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your FAFSA is delayed or rejected, schedule FAME help, then ask your college aid office for an extension for state/institutional grant consideration. If you miss the Maine State Grant deadline and are 23+ (born before 1/1/2002), ask about the one‑time Adult Learner Maine State Grant option tied to late FAFSA filing. (famemaine.com)
Maine State Grant (FAME)
- Action: File FAFSA by May 1, 2025. No extra application. (famemaine.com)
- Amounts and rules:
- Up to 2,500∗∗for2025‑26;∗∗2,500** for 2025‑26; **1,250 if at least half‑time but less than full‑time. SAI limit ≤ 10,000. Maine schools only (with a NEBHE Tuition Break exception case‑by‑case). (famemaine.com)
- Timeline:
- Your school verifies eligibility when packaging aid and pays the grant to your student account after you enroll. (famemaine.com)
- Required documents:
- FAFSA confirmation + your school’s financial aid verification (if selected).
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Missed May 1? Ask about the Maine State Grant for Adult Learners (one‑time option for late FAFSA filers), and apply to CSSP or HOPE below to fill tuition gaps. (famemaine.com)
CSSP (Competitive Skills Scholarship Program) – big help for career‑track training
- Action: Apply online during open periods at the Department of Labor’s CSSP page or call the CareerCenter hotline 1‑888‑457‑8883 to get help with the application and required documents. (maine.gov, mainecareercenter.gov)
- What it pays:
- Up to 10,000peryear∗∗forfull‑timestudents,or∗∗10,000 per year** for full‑time students, or **5,000 part‑time. Pays tuition/fees not covered by other aid and can cover childcare, transportation, books, tools, and prerequisite/remedial classes. Income must be < 200% FPL. (maine.gov)
- Who qualifies:
- Maine residents without a marketable post‑secondary degree, training toward a “high‑wage, in‑demand” occupation (the state list is on the CSSP page). (maine.gov)
- Typical timeline:
- Application to award can take a few weeks; awards depend on funding and open cycles. Start early.
- Real‑world example:
- A Bangor mom in a two‑year RN program used Pell + Maine State Grant to cover most tuition; CSSP paid remaining tuition, books, plus childcare and transportation during clinicals, keeping out‑of‑pocket costs near $0 that year. (CSSP’s list of covered supports confirms this coverage.) (maine.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If the window is closed or you’re waitlisted, ask the CareerCenter to pivot you to WIOA training funds (amounts vary by region) and to SNAP E&T supports if you get SNAP. Use the central hotline 1‑888‑457‑8883 to be routed to your closest office. (mainecareercenter.gov)
HOPE (Higher Opportunity for Pathways to Employment) – flexible help for parents in college or training
- Action: Check eligibility and apply at HOPE: Do I Qualify? or contact the HOPE Program at 207‑624‑4170. (maine.gov, www1.maine.gov)
- Who qualifies:
- Parent/caretaker 16–64 with a minor child at home; enrolled ≥ half‑time (exceptions possible); assets ≤ 10,000∗∗;notreceivingmonthlyTANForPaS;andgrossincome∗∗≤22510,000**; not receiving monthly TANF or PaS; and gross income **≤ 225% FPL**. 2025 HOPE income screen (225% FPL): family of 3 up to **4,997/month ($59,963/year). See full family size table on DHHS. (maine.gov)
- What it pays (supports):
- HOPE covers school‑related costs that your other aid doesn’t: tuition/fees, books, supplies, tools, technology, transportation, car insurance/repairs, prior unpaid tuition that blocks re‑enrollment, and more. HOPE’s Support Services guide historically shows caps like tuition up to 6,000/year∗∗,books/supplies∗∗upto6,000/year**, books/supplies **up to 2,000/year, transportation up to 140/week∗∗,andbasictech∗∗upto140/week**, and basic tech **up to 500 lifetime. Always confirm current caps with your HOPE Navigator (caps can change by rule). (maine.gov)
- Important 2025 update:
- As of July 20, 2025, HOPE no longer covers dental services due to federal TANF rules (earlier lifetime $2,000 dental cap has been removed because TANF funds can’t pay medical care). Plan dental separately. (maine.gov)
- Timeline:
- You’ll be assigned a Student Navigator who can help with class scheduling, bills, childcare, and forms. Expect 2–4 weeks from application to decision if documents are complete. (www1.maine.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re on TANF or PaS already, you can’t get HOPE—but PaS may cover similar supports plus a monthly cash benefit (see below). If HOPE is full, ask to be referred to CSSP, WIOA, or SNAP E&T for stop‑gap supports. (maine.gov, casetext.com)
Child care while you study: CCAP (Child Care Affordability Program)
- Action: Apply online from the CCAP page or call 1‑877‑680‑5866 / 207‑624‑7999. (maine.gov)
- Eligibility and cost:
- Families up to 125% of State Median Income qualify. Families under 30% SMI have a 0∗∗copay;otherspay∗∗10** copay; others pay **1%–10%** of gross weekly income on a sliding scale. The official income chart (effective Oct. 19, 2024) shows, for example, family of 3 up to **118,921.95/year (125% SMI). (maine.gov)
- 2025 program changes to know:
- Maine moved to paying providers prospectively and by enrollment; copays are capped at ≤7% of income under 85% SMI and ≤10% from 85%–125% SMI. This improves stability for students juggling school schedules. (maine.gov, www1.maine.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re over income for CCAP, ask your school’s financial aid office about on‑campus care discounts or emergency childcare funds. Also ask HOPE/CSSP whether they can help pay your copay (both may cover childcare as a support). (maine.gov, www1.maine.gov)
SNAP Employment & Training (if you receive SNAP)
- Action: Ask your SNAP worker or a provider about SNAP E&T education supports; rules are in 10‑144 CMR Ch. 609 §8. OFI Call Center: 1‑855‑797‑4357. (casetext.com, maine.gov)
- Amounts:
- Tuition up to 6,000/year∗∗(full‑time)or∗∗6,000/year** (full‑time) or **3,000 (part‑time), after other grants are applied; transportation up to $50/week (mileage reimbursed at the State rate), plus help with books/fees, occupational clothing, tools, and childcare (aligned to CCAP limits). (casetext.com)
- Why use it:
- If CSSP/HOPE can’t cover something, SNAP E&T often can fill gaps quickly.
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you don’t get SNAP, ask your CareerCenter about WIOA funding or CSSP. If you do qualify for SNAP, ask to be referred to an E&T provider immediately. (mainecareercenter.gov)
Parents as Scholars (PaS) – TANF pathway for degree‑seeking parents
- What it is:
- Maine’s PaS is a state TANF program for parents in two‑ or four‑year degree programs. Participants get a monthly cash benefit at the TANF level, MaineCare, and ASPIRE‑equivalent support services (child care, transport, etc.), in exchange for meeting participation hours (generally 20 hrs/wk during the first 24 months; different options after that). There is a statutory cap of 2,000 participants statewide. (legislature.maine.gov)
- How to apply:
- Through the Office for Family Independence (OFI). TANF/ASPIRE page and number: 1‑855‑797‑4357 or apply via My Maine Connection. (maine.gov)
- Notes on amounts:
- TANF monthly grant amounts increased by 20% effective Oct. 1, 2024 (e.g., a family of three went from 723∗∗toabout∗∗723** to about **868/month), and will adjust each October with Social Security COLA. Confirm your exact grant with OFI when you apply. (maine.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If PaS slots are full or you don’t want TANF, use HOPE/CSSP/SNAP E&T combos to replicate supports without TANF reporting requirements. (www1.maine.gov, maine.gov)
Other funding worth checking (can stack with grants)
- Maine Community Foundation Adult Learner Scholarships: typically 1,000–1,000–2,500 per semester for degree programs; short‑term awards 200–200–1,500 for certificates like CNA or CDL; rolling or twice‑yearly deadlines. See MaineCF Adult Learners. (mainecf.org)
- Student Loan Repayment Tax Credit (Maine): refundable 2,500/year∗∗(lifetime∗∗2,500/year** (lifetime **25,000) when you live/work in Maine and make qualifying student loan payments; file with your state tax return using the SLRTC worksheet. See Maine Revenue Services SLRTC and FAQs. (maine.gov)
- TEACH Grant: up to $3,772/year (sequester‑adjusted) for specific education majors; converts to a loan if service terms aren’t met. Check eligibility with your college aid office and this FSA notice. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Free community college (specific cohorts): If you finished high school/HiSET in 2023–2025 and live in Maine while enrolled, your tuition at Maine’s community colleges may be fully covered after FAFSA (tuition is $96/credit in 2025–26 at EMCC; most MCCS colleges remain at that rate). See Free Community College at FAME. (famemaine.com, emcc.edu)
What college really costs in Maine (quick snapshot)
| School type | Tuition (in‑state) | Typical fees | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maine Community Colleges (MCCS) | About 96/credit∗∗(e.g.,∗∗96/credit** (e.g., **2,880/year at 30 credits) | Around $1,276/year | Lowest tuition/fees in New England; confirm at your campus. (mccs.me.edu) |
| University of Southern Maine (USM) – 2025‑26 | 316–316–355/credit undergrad (by band); grad 475–475–532/credit | Comprehensive fee 89/credit∗∗+techfee∗∗89/credit** + tech fee **10/credit | Use to ballpark UMS four‑year costs; check your campus’ 25/26 rate sheet. (usm.maine.edu) |
| EMCC (example, MCCS) – 2025‑26 | $96/credit | Comp fee 29/credit∗∗+studentservices∗∗29/credit** + student services **13/credit | Rates vary by campus; always check your program fees. (emcc.edu) |
How to stack programs (without leaving money on the table)
- Do this sequence:
- File FAFSA (Pell + Maine State Grant).
- Ask your aid office to package HOPE or CSSP if you’re eligible (these fill the gap after grants).
- Add CCAP for childcare while you attend classes or clinicals.
- If on SNAP, ask for SNAP E&T to cover any remaining tuition/fees, mileage, books/tools.
- If you still have a gap, search MaineCF Adult Learner Scholarships and your campus foundation. (mainecf.org)
- Reality check: You’ll likely juggle 2–3 programs. That’s normal. Get a MEOC advisor (1‑800‑281‑3703) to coordinate deadlines and documents. (meoc.maine.edu)
Document & application checklist (print this)
- Government photo ID; Social Security number (or alien registration number if eligible).
- 2023 federal tax return (1040) and W‑2s; spouse info if married.
- Proof of Maine residency (lease, utility bill, Maine license).
- School acceptance or current course schedule; prior transcripts.
- For HOPE/CSSP/SNAP E&T: proof of income (pay stubs), child’s birth certificate, childcare provider info, car registration/insurance if asking for mileage or repairs, and any unpaid prior tuition invoice if you need help clearing a hold. (maine.gov)
Application timelines (typical)
| Step | How long it takes | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| FAFSA filing + FSA IDs | Same day to 1 week | Book FAME help if stuck; don’t delay for small questions. (famemaine.com) |
| School aid package | 1–4 weeks after FAFSA hits the school | Respond fast if selected for verification. |
| HOPE/CSSP decision | ~2–4 weeks (varies) | Submit all docs upfront to avoid back‑and‑forth. (maine.gov, www1.maine.gov) |
| CCAP eligibility | Up to 15 days by rule | Start this ASAP; you can’t start classes if childcare falls apart. (maine.gov) |
| SNAP E&T support | 1–2 weeks after enrollment in E&T component | Ask for mileage/cards in advance so you can attend. (casetext.com) |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the Maine State Grant by filing FAFSA after May 1. Set a phone reminder now. (famemaine.com)
- Not telling your aid office when childcare or transportation falls through—schools often have emergency funds or can adjust cost of attendance (which can increase grant eligibility).
- Ignoring “verification” emails from financial aid—your Pell/State Grant can’t pay until you send what they ask.
- Skipping CSSP/HOPE because you assume you earn too much. HOPE goes up to 225% FPL; CSSP’s limit is 200% FPL. Check the current charts. (maine.gov)
- Expecting HOPE to cover dental in 2025. It can’t anymore due to TANF rules (as of July 20, 2025). Plan dental separately. (maine.gov)
Diverse communities: tailored pointers
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Ask your college to list “preferred name” and update records for dependents; MEOC advisors can help navigate paperwork and privacy. MEOC contact, 1‑800‑281‑3703. (meoc.maine.edu)
- Single mothers with disabilities or moms of disabled children
- Coordinate with your college’s disability services for classroom and testing accommodations; ask HOPE/CSSP for transportation and schedule flexibility. If you need training supports aligned with a disability plan, your local CareerCenter can route you to the right services. Hotline 1‑888‑457‑8883. (mainecareercenter.gov)
- Veteran single mothers
- Use federal VA education benefits and stack Maine grants on top. The CareerCenter offers priority of service to veterans; identify yourself when you call 1‑888‑457‑8883. (mainecareercenter.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms
- For English classes and college prep, contact your local Adult Education program through Maine DOE’s Adult Ed directory and MCCA (Maine College & Career Access). (maine.gov)
- Tribal citizens
- If you’re a member of a federally recognized tribe, ask your campus financial aid office about tribal higher‑ed grants and any tuition waiver/scholarship options in your system. Pair those with Pell/Maine State Grant.
- Rural moms with limited access
- Many programs accept online/part‑time enrollment. HOPE recognizes half‑time; CSSP funds part‑time at $5,000/year. Use CCAP for childcare with relatives or license‑exempt providers where needed. (maine.gov)
- Single fathers
- Every program here applies to you too if you meet the rules (HOPE, CSSP, CCAP, Pell, Maine State Grant).
- Language access
- CCAP and SNAP E&T maintain translated flyers and use interpreter lines; ask when you call 1‑877‑680‑5866 (CCAP) or 1‑855‑797‑4357 (OFI). (maine.gov)
Local help and who to call
| Service | How they help | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) | FAFSA help; Maine State Grant info; scholarship search | 800‑228‑3734 (opt. 4); FAME contact page. (famemaine.com) |
| MEOC (adult college advising) | Free advising for adults: FAFSA, admissions, picking programs | 1‑800‑281‑3703; MEOC Contact. (meoc.maine.edu) |
| Maine CareerCenter | CSSP/WIOA training funds; job search; workshops | Hotline 1‑888‑457‑8883; find locations. (mainecareercenter.gov, myworksourcemaine.gov) |
| CCAP (child care) | Child care subsidy while you study/work | 1‑877‑680‑5866; CCAP info and application. (maine.gov) |
| HOPE (DHHS) | Tuition/supports for parents in college/training | 207‑624‑4170; HOPE. (www1.maine.gov) |
| TANF/ASPIRE/PaS (DHHS) | Cash assistance plus education work supports | 1‑855‑797‑4357; TANF page. (maine.gov) |
If you’re choosing between community college and a university
- Maine Community Colleges have the lowest tuition/fees in New England (about $4,156/year tuition+fees listed for 2024‑25) and many programs are fully coverable with Pell + Maine State Grant. Universities cost more per credit; check your program’s return on investment. (mccs.me.edu)
- If you’re Class of 2023–2025 (or earned HiSET in those cohorts), see Maine’s “Free Community College” option—tuition can be fully covered when you live in Maine while enrolled (still file FAFSA). (famemaine.com)
What to do when something blocks you (holds, childcare, car problems)
- Unpaid prior balance blocking registration? HOPE can sometimes cover “prior tuition and fees preventing reenrollment” up to its cap. Bring the invoice. (www1.maine.gov, maine.gov)
- Childcare fell through? Call CCAP right away and ask about using a relative provider while you finish enrollment. Have your provider sign up with CCAP. (maine.gov)
- Car repair needed to get to class? HOPE and SNAP E&T can fund repairs/insurance if it’s the least expensive way to keep you in school. You’ll need proof of registration/insurance and a mechanic estimate. (maine.gov, casetext.com)
FAQs (Maine‑specific)
- What is the Pell Grant maximum for 2025‑26?
- 7,395∗∗(minimum∗∗7,395** (minimum **740). Your exact award depends on FAFSA and Student Aid Index. Source: FSA. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- How much is the Maine State Grant and what’s the deadline?
- Up to 2,500∗∗(half‑time∗∗2,500** (half‑time **1,250). File FAFSA by May 1, 2025; SAI must be ≤ 10,000. Source: FAME. (famemaine.com)
- Can I get help with childcare while in school?
- Yes. CCAP serves up to 125% SMI with copays 0%–10%. Call 1‑877‑680‑5866. Source: DHHS OCFS. (maine.gov)
- I get SNAP. Can SNAP E&T help pay tuition?
- Often, yes—up to 6,000/year∗∗full‑time(∗∗6,000/year** full‑time (**3,000 part‑time), plus transport up to $50/week, books, and more. Source: 10‑144 CMR Ch. 609 §8. (casetext.com)
- What’s the HOPE income limit?
- 225% FPL (e.g., family of 3 up to $4,997/month in 2025). Source: DHHS HOPE “Do I Qualify?” page. (maine.gov)
- Does HOPE still cover dental?
- No. As of July 20, 2025, HOPE removed dental support because TANF funds can’t pay medical care. Source: DHHS rule adoption. (maine.gov)
- I missed the FAFSA deadline for the Maine State Grant. Any second chance?
- If you’re an adult learner (born before 1/1/2002), ask about the one‑time Adult Learner Maine State Grant tied to late FAFSA filing. Source: FAME. (famemaine.com)
- What is CSSP and how much does it pay?
- It’s a state scholarship for in‑demand careers—10,000/year∗∗full‑timeor∗∗10,000/year** full‑time or **5,000 part‑time, including supports like childcare and transportation. Source: MDOL CSSP. (maine.gov)
- What are typical community college tuition rates in Maine?
- About 96/credit∗∗(e.g.,∗∗96/credit** (e.g., **2,880/year at 30 credits); check your campus for fees. Sources: MCCS; EMCC 2025‑26 rates. (mccs.me.edu, emcc.edu)
- Is there any help after I graduate if I have loans?
- Maine’s Student Loan Repayment Tax Credit refunds up to 2,500/year∗∗(∗∗2,500/year** (**25,000 lifetime) while you live/work in Maine and pay your student loans. Source: Maine Revenue Services. (maine.gov)
What to submit (by program)
| Program | Must have ready |
|---|---|
| FAFSA | 2023 tax return, SSN, records of untaxed income, school list |
| FAME/Maine State Grant | FAFSA on time; respond to verification if selected |
| CSSP | Income proof (<200% FPL), program acceptance/plan, resume, budget |
| HOPE | Proof of parent status, income/assets, course schedule, award letter, prior bill (if any) |
| CCAP | Income proof, school/work status, child’s documents, provider info |
| SNAP E&T | SNAP eligibility, training plan, receipts/estimates for reimbursements |
Quick region‑by‑region contacts (CareerCenters)
Use the hotline 1‑888‑457‑8883 to get routed to the closest office, or search by town at Work Source Maine: Locations. Examples: Augusta (207‑623‑7981), Greater Portland (207‑623‑7981), Lewiston (207‑623‑7981), Presque Isle (207‑623‑7981). (myworksourcemaine.gov)
Quick Reference: Income and award tables
HOPE 225% FPL (2025 screen)
| Family size | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,935 | $35,213 |
| 2 | $3,966 | $47,588 |
| 3 | $4,997 | $59,963 |
| 4 | $6,029 | $72,338 |
| 5 | $7,060 | $84,713 |
Source: DHHS HOPE “Do I Qualify?” (updated figures). (maine.gov)
CCAP 125% SMI (effective Oct 19, 2024; used for 2025)
| Family size | Annual max income |
|---|---|
| 2 | $96,270.15 |
| 3 | $118,921.95 |
| 4 | $141,573.75 |
| 5 | $164,225.55 |
Source: DHHS OCFS “Income Eligibility Criteria (125% SMI)” PDF. (maine.gov)
CSSP and SNAP E&T key caps at a glance
| Program | Tuition cap | Other supports |
|---|---|---|
| CSSP | 10,000/year∗∗(FT)or∗∗10,000/year** (FT) or **5,000 (PT) | Childcare, books, fees, equipment, transportation |
| SNAP E&T | 6,000/year∗∗(FT)or∗∗6,000/year** (FT) or **3,000 (PT) | Transport up to $50/wk, mileage at State rate; dependent care up to CCAP limits |
Sources: MDOL CSSP; DHHS SNAP E&T §8. (maine.gov, casetext.com)
Real‑world examples (to copy)
- “Clear the hold” strategy
- If an unpaid prior bill blocks registration, submit the invoice to HOPE for “prior tuition/fees preventing reenrollment” plus your 2025 HOPE eligibility docs. Then stack Pell + Maine State Grant + HOPE + CCAP for the new term. (maine.gov)
- “Nursing pathway” with childcare
- FAFSA (Pell + Maine State Grant) + CSSP for remaining tuition, books, and childcare + CCAP to reduce copay to ≤10% + SNAP E&T for gas/mileage during clinicals. This keeps cash flow steady and out‑of‑pocket low. (maine.gov, casetext.com)
What to do if nothing lines up
- Book free MEOC advising (1‑800‑281‑3703) and ask for a plan that uses at least two of the following: State Grant + HOPE + CSSP + CCAP + SNAP E&T. Then call your CareerCenter (1‑888‑457‑8883) and ask for the soonest CSSP window or WIOA alternative. (meoc.maine.edu, mainecareercenter.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Maine Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
- Program rules, amounts, deadlines, and eligibility change. Always confirm details with the relevant agency or your school’s financial aid office before applying or making financial decisions.
- Security note: To keep your information safe, avoid sharing SSNs or bank details over email or text. Use official portals (FAFSA at StudentAid.gov; My Maine Connection; DHHS or MDOL portals) and confirm you’re on a “.gov” website before entering personal information.
Sources (selected)
- Federal Pell Grant maximum/minimum 2025–26. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- TEACH Grant sequester adjustment (FY26). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Maine State Grant: amounts, SAI cap, deadline; Adult Learner option. (famemaine.com)
- CSSP: amounts, eligibility, covered supports. (maine.gov)
- HOPE: eligibility (225% FPL), supports; contact. (maine.gov, www1.maine.gov)
- HOPE Support Services Table (caps); verify caps with Navigator; dental removal rule effective July 20, 2025. (maine.gov)
- CCAP: 125% SMI eligibility, copays, program changes; income chart PDF. (maine.gov)
- SNAP E&T: tuition/transport caps. (casetext.com)
- CareerCenter hotline/locations (for CSSP/WIOA). (mainecareercenter.gov, myworksourcemaine.gov)
- MCCS/USM tuition references for cost snapshots. (mccs.me.edu, usm.maine.edu, emcc.edu)
- MaineCF Adult Learner Scholarships (amounts, timelines). (mainecf.org)
- Student Loan Repayment Tax Credit (MRS). (maine.gov)
Content gaps we covered (vs. common search results)
Most top search results list general tips or old numbers. This guide adds: exact 2025 amounts for Maine State Grant; CSSP’s current 10,000/10,000/5,000 caps; HOPE’s 225% FPL income screen and updated dental policy; CCAP’s new 125% SMI rules and copay caps; SNAP E&T’s tuition/transport caps; and verified contacts/timelines—all with official citations. (famemaine.com, maine.gov, casetext.com)
Tip: Save this page and start with the Quick help box. If you get stuck, call FAME (800‑228‑3734) for FAFSA help, then your CareerCenter (1‑888‑457‑8883) to layer CSSP/HOPE/CCAP. (famemaine.com, mainecareercenter.gov)
🏛️More Maine Resources for Single Mothers
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