Education Grants for Single Mothers in Alabama
Alabama Education Grants for Single Mothers: The No‑BS, Step‑by‑Step Guide
Last updated: September 2025
Use this to find real dollars for college, career training, and K‑12 help for your kids in Alabama. Every program below includes who qualifies, how much you can get, how to apply, documents you’ll need, timelines, and who to call.
Quick Help Box
- File the FAFSA first to unlock Pell Grants, FSEOG, and Alabama state grants. It’s free and required for most aid. File at FAFSA (studentaid.gov) as soon as you can. For 2025–26, the Pell Grant max is $7,395. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Alabama’s main state grants:
Alabama Student Assistance Program (ASAP) pays 300–300–5,000/year if you have financial need; Alabama Student Grant Program (ASGP) pays up to $3,000/year at certain private colleges. (ache.edu, regulations.justia.com) - Training and short‑term certificates: Ask your local Alabama Career Center about WIOA “training scholarships” (ITAs) that can cover tuition, fees, books for in‑demand programs. Find your nearest center on the AlabamaWorks locator. (labor.alabama.gov)
- Alabama moms serving in the National Guard: ANGEAP can cover remaining tuition/fees up to about $6,017.50 per semester at Alabama public schools. Apply each term through your unit and college aid office. (myairforcebenefits.us.af.mil, fammed.usouthal.edu)
- K‑12 help for your child (new): Alabama’s CHOOSE Act Education Savings Accounts provide 7,000∗∗(privateschools)or∗∗7,000** (private schools) or **2,000 (home education; capped at $4,000/family) for the 2025–26 year, with income priority up to 300% FPL. Apply at the official site during the window. (governor.alabama.gov, revenue.alabama.gov)
- Need child care so you can attend school or training? Apply for the DHR Child Care Subsidy (income‑based). Start at Alabama DHR Child Care and see “Income Eligibility and Fee Criteria.” (dhr.alabama.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program | Who it helps | Max $ (2025–26 unless noted) | Key action | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Undergrads with financial need | Up to $7,395/year | File FAFSA early | FAFSA at studentaid.gov (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| FSEOG | Pell‑eligible students with highest need | Up to $4,000/year (school decides) | FAFSA + ask aid office if funds remain | School aid office; program rules: FSA Handbook (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| TEACH Grant | Future teachers in high‑need fields | Up to $3,772 (after sequester) | Complete TEACH steps; service obligation | FSA sequester notice (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| Alabama Student Assistance Program (ASAP) | AL residents with need | 300–300–5,000/year | FAFSA; funds limited | ACHE ASAP (ache.edu) |
| Alabama Student Grant Program (ASGP) | AL residents at listed private colleges | Up to $3,000/year | ASGP app via your school | ACHE ASGP + app (ache.edu, regulations.justia.com) |
| WIOA ITA (training scholarship) | Adults in approved short‑term/in‑demand training | Local caps vary | Meet Career Center; choose ETPL program | AlabamaWorks Career Centers (labor.alabama.gov) |
| ACCS Short‑Term Credential Reimbursement | AL residents in approved 2‑semester‑max programs | Up to $4,500 (reimbursement) | Finish program; submit claim | ACCS Short‑Term Credential (accs.edu) |
| Alabama National Guard (ANGEAP) | Active AL Guard members | Up to ~$6,017.50/semester | Apply each term via unit + aid office | ACHE/University pages; DoD benefits page (myairforcebenefits.us.af.mil, fammed.usouthal.edu) |
| GI Dependents Scholarship | Spouses/dependents of qualifying disabled veterans | Tuition/fees for set semesters | Apply via ADVA | Alabama GI Dependent Scholarship (va.alabama.gov) |
| Fostering Hope + ETV (for former foster youth) | Former foster youth/kinship | Tuition/fees (Fostering Hope); ETV up to $5,000/year | Contact program; FAFSA | Kinship Navigator: Education (navigator.alabama.gov) |
| CHOOSE Act ESA (K‑12) | Your child’s K‑12 education | 7,000school/7,000 school / 2,000 home (cap $4,000 family) | Apply during state window | AL Dept. of Revenue CHOOSE Act (revenue.alabama.gov) |
First Steps: File the FAFSA (this unlocks most money)
Do this even if you think you make “too much” or you’re going part‑time.
- Create your StudentAid.gov account (and each “contributor,” like a parent or spouse, needs one too). Gather your 2023 tax info; the FAFSA will pull tax data for you once you consent. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Documents you’ll likely need:
- Social Security numbers (or Alien Registration number if applicable), driver’s license (if any).
- 2023 federal tax return/W‑2s (for you and spouse/parent if required); records of child support received and current balances of checking/savings and investments. (citadel.edu)
- Where to file and timeline: File at studentaid.gov. Federal Pell for 2025–26 tops out at 7,395∗∗;minimumPellis∗∗7,395**; minimum Pell is **740. Schools can also award “year‑round Pell” if you attend summer. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Reality check: FAFSA glitches do happen. If your info doesn’t match SSA, fix it with SSA, then ask FSA to re‑sync. Keep screenshots and confirmations. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call your college aid office and ask for help submitting a “professional judgment” if your 2023 income no longer reflects your current situation (job change, separation, etc.).
- Ask about priority dates; some campus funds run out fast.
The Big Federal Grants (for you)
Federal Pell Grant
- How much: Up to $7,395 for 2025–26. Some students can get up to 150% of their annual Pell with summer enrollment (“year‑round Pell”). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Who qualifies: Undergrads without a bachelor’s who meet need tests under the Student Aid Index (SAI). Max and min Pell are set by law; for 2025–26 the min is $740. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Apply: FAFSA only. See Volume 7 of the 2025–26 FSA Handbook for rules. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Timeline: After you register and your school packages aid, Pell usually disburses near the start of the term.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If Pell isn’t enough, add ASAP (below), FSEOG, work‑study, and local scholarships. Ask your aid office about emergency aid and payment plans.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
- How much: Up to $4,000 per year; your school decides amounts and funds are limited. Priority goes to Pell recipients with the most need. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Apply: FAFSA; then ask your aid office if funds are available.
- Timeline: First‑come, first‑served at colleges; apply early each year.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask if your school has any remaining funds mid‑year. If not, look to ASAP and WIOA training scholarships.
TEACH Grant (future teachers)
- How much: Up to **3,772∗∗in2025–26(reducedbyfederalsequesterfrom3,772** in 2025–26 (reduced by federal sequester from 4,000). Comes with a 4‑year teaching service requirement in a high‑need field at a low‑income school; otherwise it converts to a loan. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Apply: FAFSA + complete TEACH counseling and Agreement to Serve.
- Tip: Only choose this if you’re confident about meeting the teaching requirement.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask about state teacher scholarships or loan‑repayment options after graduation.
Alabama State Grants (for you)
Alabama Student Assistance Program (ASAP)
- How much: 300–300–5,000 per academic year. Need‑based. Nearly 80 Alabama colleges participate. Funds are limited. (ache.edu)
- Who qualifies: Alabama residents in eligible Alabama colleges who show need (via FAFSA).
- Apply: FAFSA. Your college aid office awards ASAP automatically if you qualify.
- Timeline: Awarded after Pell; can run out—file early.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your aid office to put you on a waitlist for spring disbursements if fall money was exhausted.
Alabama Student Grant Program (ASGP)
- How much: Up to $3,000 per year; not need‑based. Only at specific private, non‑profit Alabama colleges listed by ACHE. (ache.edu, regulations.justia.com)
- Apply: Download the ASGP application for your award year and submit to your college’s aid office. (ache.edu)
- Key rule: ACHE caps per‑term amounts (e.g., up to 1,500/semester∗∗full‑time),withamax∗∗1,500/semester** full‑time), with a max **3,000/year. (regulations.justia.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your chosen college isn’t on the ASGP list, ask about its own need‑based institutional grants.
Scholarships and Special Programs (state + partners)
ACCS Short‑Term Credential Scholarship (reimbursement)
- How much: Up to $4,500 reimbursed for qualifying short‑term (≤2 semesters) credential programs in the Alabama Community College System (tuition, fees, books, testing, materials). You pay upfront; get reimbursed after completion. (accs.edu)
- Apply: Request approval before finishing; submit reimbursement claim after you complete the program.
- Best for: Fast training in in‑demand jobs (health care, skilled trades, IT).
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your Career Center about WIOA ITAs to front costs so you don’t have to pay first. (wioa-alabama.org)
CollegeCounts Scholarship (Alabama State Treasurer)
- How much: 4,000∗∗(four‑yearenrollees)or∗∗4,000** (four‑year enrollees) or **2,000 (two‑year enrollees); needs‑based, one‑time for first‑time freshmen. The application window typically runs winter through late February. Check the official page for current dates. (wsfa.com, bigfuture.collegeboard.org)
- Apply: See the Treasurer’s CollegeCounts page and follow directions (watch for the annual window). We recommend starting here: CollegeCounts Scholarship (Treasurer). (podcasts.shelbyed.k12.al.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your high school/college about local foundation scholarships with rolling deadlines.
Alabama National Guard Educational Assistance Program (ANGEAP)
- How much: Pays remaining tuition/required fees (after other aid) up to about 6,017.50persemester∗∗atAlabamapubliccolleges;minimumunmetneed∗∗6,017.50 per semester** at Alabama public colleges; minimum unmet need **100. Apply every term; funds limited. (myairforcebenefits.us.af.mil)
- Apply: Get the term’s ANGEAP form from your unit; college completes its section; ACHE pays your school. Term deadlines are posted by ACHE (e.g., Fall/Spring/Summer cutoff dates). (ache.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your Education Service Officer about Federal Tuition Assistance and GI Bill stacking.
Alabama G.I. Dependents’ Scholarship (spouses/dependents)
- What it covers: Set semesters of tuition/fees at Alabama public schools for dependents/spouses of qualifying veterans (disability rating rules apply). Check the state booklet and apply through ADVA. (va.alabama.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your campus veterans office about federal VA Chapter 35 (DEA) benefits.
For former foster youth: Fostering Hope + ETV
- Fostering Hope Scholarship: Covers tuition and required fees for eligible former foster youth/kinship/adopted after age 14, in a degree or certificate program.
- ETV (Education & Training Vouchers): Up to $5,000/year for school costs; first‑come, first‑served. Start with Alabama’s Kinship Navigator. (navigator.alabama.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your campus about tuition waivers or emergency funds for independent students.
Scholarship for Dependents of Blind Parents (state law)
- What it can cover: Tuition and instructional fees at Alabama public colleges for up to four standard academic years when the head of household is blind and family income is at/below 1.3× federal poverty level; must start within two years of high school graduation. Apply through the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. (alabamaaer.com)
Workforce Training Money (fastest path to a better paycheck)
WIOA Individual Training Accounts (ITAs)
- What it pays: Tuition, fees, books, supplies for approved in‑demand training programs on the state’s ETPL (Eligible Training Provider List). Amounts and caps are set by your local workforce board. (wioa-alabama.org)
- How to apply:
- Visit or call your Alabama Career Center and ask for WIOA eligibility screening. Find a location at the AlabamaWorks locator. (labor.alabama.gov)
- Bring photo ID, proof of Alabama residency, proof of income or public benefits, layoff/termination paperwork (if any), and your training program choice (from ETPL).
- Ask about supportive services (transportation, testing fees, gear).
- Realistic timeline: 2–6 weeks from intake to approval, depending on document speed and class start dates.
- Example: A mom in Montgomery chooses a 10‑month medical assistant program on the ETPL. Her Career Center covers tuition and books with an ITA; Pell and ASAP cover what’s left, so her out‑of‑pocket is $0.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask about on‑the‑job training (OJT) or apprenticeships with earnings while you learn.
GED “See4Free” and adult education (if you need a diploma)
- GED test cost in Alabama: 144∗∗total(∗∗144** total (**36/subject) online or at a test center. The state’s “See4Free” voucher pays when you pass the GED Ready practice test. Classes are free through Alabama Adult Education. (ged.com, accs.edu)
- Start here: ACCS Adult Education for vouchers/classes or register at GED.com: Alabama. (accs.edu, ged.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your Career Center to bundle GED + short‑term training under WIOA.
Child Care While You Study or Train
- Alabama’s Child Care Subsidy helps low‑ to moderate‑income families pay for licensed care while you work, attend school, or train. Start at DHR Child Care and click “Subsidized Child Care” to see eligibility and the “Income Eligibility and Fee Criteria” chart. Apply through the Child Care Management Agency serving your region. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Tip: Many programs have waitlists. Apply early and ask your school about on‑campus child care and student parent discounts.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Dial 2‑1‑1 or 888‑421‑1266 to ask about local child care scholarships and sliding‑fee centers. Text your ZIP to 898‑211 for chat. (211connectsalabama.org)
K‑12 Help for Your Kids: Alabama CHOOSE Act ESAs (2025–26)
- Amounts: 7,000∗∗perstudentinparticipatingprivateschools;∗∗7,000** per student in participating private schools; **2,000 per student in home education (cap $4,000/family).
- Who gets priority in Year 1 (2025–26): Students with special needs (first 500), then dependents of active‑duty service members in/assigned to priority schools, then families up to 300% FPL. Application window opened January 2, 2025, with a April 7, 2025 deadline; approvals use the state’s criteria; funds usable starting July 2025. Apply on the official site. (governor.alabama.gov, revenue.alabama.gov)
- Where to read the rules: Alabama Dept. of Revenue – CHOOSE Act. For the Year‑1 application timeline, see the Governor’s January 2, 2025 press release. (governor.alabama.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your school district about magnet/transfer options and tutoring supports paid by Title I.
How Much Will School Really Cost? (Example)
Below are 2025–26 estimated cost‑of‑attendance (COA) figures from Auburn University to help you budget (tuition/fees plus living costs). Your college’s COA may differ—always check your school. (auburn.edu)
| Student type | Tuition/Fees | Housing & Food | Books/Supplies | Personal | Transportation | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AL Resident Undergrad (on campus) | $13,318 | $17,210 | $1,200 | $3,088 | $3,232 | $38,048 |
| AL Resident Undergrad (live with parent) | $13,318 | $8,608 | $1,200 | $3,088 | $3,232 | $29,446 |
Use this to stack Pell, FSEOG, ASAP/ASGP, scholarships, and WIOA to cover the gap.
Application Checklist (print this)
- Photo ID; Social Security card or Alien Registration number.
- 2023 tax return and W‑2s (you and spouse/parent if required).
- Current bank balances; records of child support received.
- Proof of Alabama residency (lease, utility bill).
- For WIOA: resume, layoff notice (if any), program quote/curriculum from an ETPL school.
- For child care subsidy: paystubs/school schedule, child birth certificates, provider info.
- Keep a folder with copies of everything and a simple timeline.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to file the FAFSA. Many grants are first‑come, first‑served. File early and correct later.
- Skipping “professional judgment.” If your income dropped since 2023, ask your aid office to review and adjust.
- Picking a non‑ETPL training provider for WIOA—no ETPL, no funding.
- Not reading service obligations (TEACH converts to a loan if you don’t teach in a qualifying job). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Missing ANGEAP term deadlines—apply each semester. (ache.edu)
Realistic Timelines
- FAFSA to award: 2–6 weeks, longer if verification is required.
- WIOA ITA: 2–6 weeks from intake to approval.
- CHOOSE Act ESA: Year‑1 application was Jan 2–Apr 7, 2025; awards notified in May; funds usable in July. Check next cycle dates. (governor.alabama.gov)
- ANGEAP: Fall/Spring/Summer have hard ACHE cutoff dates (e.g., Fall 2025 Oct 24, 2025; Spring 2026 Mar 6, 2026; Summer 2026 Jun 26, 2026). Submit early. (ache.edu)
Local Contacts (quick picks)
Use the statewide locator to find the closest Alabama Career Center: Find your Career Center (AlabamaWorks). Or call a nearby center directly:
- Birmingham Career Center: 205‑582‑5200. (legalconsumer.com)
- Montgomery Career Center: 334‑286‑1746. (centralalabamaworks.com)
- Mobile Career Center: 251‑461‑4146. (business.saralandchamber.com)
- Opelika Career Center: 334‑749‑5065. (centralalabamaworks.com)
- Selma Career Center: 334‑872‑0471. (centralalabamaworks.com)
Need other help (child care, rent, food, legal, tutoring)? Dial 2‑1‑1 or 888‑421‑1266 or text your ZIP to 898‑211. It’s free and statewide. (211connectsalabama.org)
Diverse Communities: Targeted Pointers
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: When choosing campuses, ask about LGBTQ+ resource centers and housing. For emergency help and mental health connections in Alabama, start with 2‑1‑1. (211connectsalabama.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with children with disabilities: Ask your college about disability services and priority registration; for state rehab services and assistive technology, your Career Center can refer into Vocational Rehabilitation while you train. Use 2‑1‑1 to find local disability nonprofits. (211connectsalabama.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Check both VA education benefits and Alabama’s state programs (ADVA site) and see if you qualify for the GI Dependents’ Scholarship. Talk to your campus veterans office. (va.alabama.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee moms: FAFSA eligibility depends on status; see aid office for “mixed‑status” households. For local ESL/GED classes, use ACCS Adult Education and 2‑1‑1 for legal aid referrals. (accs.edu, 211connectsalabama.org)
- Tribal citizens: Ask your tribe’s education office about higher‑ed grants and BIA scholarships; combine with Pell/ASAP.
- Rural moms with limited access: Ask about online‑friendly programs on the ETPL and WIOA help with testing fees, internet hot‑spots (varies by area). Use your nearest Career Center for options. (wioa-alabama.org)
- Single fathers: Most of these programs are gender‑neutral; dads qualify the same way.
- Language access: State sites often have Español pages or phone interpretation; if not, ask the office to bring an interpreter to your appointment.
Program Deep‑Dives (with steps, documents, plan B)
Below are the most requested Alabama programs with “what to do first,” documents, and backup plans.
Pell, FSEOG, and TEACH (stack these first)
- Action first: File FAFSA at studentaid.gov and check your Student Aid Estimator.
- Documents: SSN/Alien number; 2023 taxes; bank balances; child support received. (citadel.edu)
- If denied or low award: Request a professional judgment review for loss of income; ask about emergency grants and payment plans.
Key facts sources: Pell max/min (2025–26) and year‑round Pell; FSEOG rules; TEACH sequester amount. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
ASAP and ASGP (Alabama state grants)
- Action first: File FAFSA (ASAP requires it). If attending a listed private college, submit the ASGP form to your school.
- Documents: FAFSA confirmation, proof of AL residency if requested, class load.
- Plan B: If funds are depleted, ask about institutional grants and work‑study.
Key facts sources: ASAP range 300–300–5,000; ASGP max $3,000/year; per‑term caps. (ache.edu, regulations.justia.com)
WIOA ITA (training scholarship)
- Action first: Book an intake at your nearest Career Center; bring ID, proof of income, and your chosen ETPL program printout.
- Documents: ID, proof of residence, income, layoff letter (if any), training plan/quote.
- Plan B: If your area’s training funds are on hold, ask about OJT/apprenticeships.
Source: Alabama WIOA ITA overview; office locator. (wioa-alabama.org, labor.alabama.gov)
ACCS Short‑Term Credential Reimbursement (finish‑to‑get‑paid)
- Action first: Confirm your program is eligible and submit the application before you finish; keep receipts.
- Documents: Proof of AL residency, enrollment, receipts for tuition/fees/books/tests.
- Plan B: If upfront cost is the barrier, ask your Career Center to use WIOA funds instead.
Source: ACCS program page (up to $4,500). (accs.edu)
ANGEAP (for Guard members)
- Action first: Get the term application from your unit; submit it to your school after registration.
- Documents: Proof of good standing, FAFSA on file, class schedule, unmet need ≥$100.
- Plan B: Ask your ESO about FTA and GI Bill kicker.
Sources: DoD benefits page listing current cap; university guidance; ACHE term deadlines. (myairforcebenefits.us.af.mil, fammed.usouthal.edu, ache.edu)
GI Dependents’ Scholarship (spouses/dependents)
- Action first: Review ADVA booklet; apply through the ADVA portal; mind age/time limits.
- Plan B: Ask your campus VA office about Chapter 35 and Yellow Ribbon (if applicable).
Source: ADVA program page. (va.alabama.gov)
Fostering Hope Scholarship + ETV (former foster youth)
- Action first: Contact Fostering Hope; file FAFSA; submit ETV app early—funds are limited.
- Documents: Proof of foster status/age at adoption or guardianship; enrollment; COA/unmet need from your school.
- Plan B: Ask your aid office about campus pantry, laptop loaners, emergency funds.
Source: Alabama Kinship Navigator (overview + ETV up to $5,000). (navigator.alabama.gov)
Tables You Can Use
1) Federal + State Grant Stack (snapshot)
| Grant | Max $ | Needs FAFSA? | Alabama resident required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pell | $7,395 | Yes | No | Year‑round Pell possible. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| FSEOG | $4,000 | Yes | No | School‑limited funds. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| TEACH | $3,772 | Yes | No | Be sure you’ll meet service. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| ASAP | $5,000 | Yes | Yes | State need‑based. (ache.edu) |
| ASGP | $3,000 | No | Yes | Listed private colleges only. (ache.edu) |
2) K‑12 ESA (CHOOSE Act) quick view
| Student setting | Amount | Caps | Priority (Year 1) | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Participating private school | $7,000 | Per student | Special‑needs; military dependents at priority schools; then up to 300% FPL | CHOOSE Act info (ALDOR) (revenue.alabama.gov) |
| Home education | $2,000 | $4,000/family | Same as above | Governor’s application window press release (2025) (governor.alabama.gov) |
3) Career Center quick contacts (sample)
| City | Phone | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Birmingham Career Center | 205‑582‑5200 | Ask for WIOA intake. (legalconsumer.com) |
| Montgomery Career Center | 334‑286‑1746 | WIOA + child care referrals. (centralalabamaworks.com) |
| Mobile Career Center | 251‑461‑4146 | Veterans rep available. (business.saralandchamber.com) |
| Opelika Career Center | 334‑749‑5065 | ETPL training options. (centralalabamaworks.com) |
Find more: AlabamaWorks Career Center Locator. (labor.alabama.gov)
4) Adult Ed + GED costs
| Item | Amount | Where |
|---|---|---|
| GED per subject | $36 | GED.com Alabama (ged.com) |
| GED total | $144 | Same as above. (ged.com) |
| See4Free voucher | Covers GED after passing practice test | ACCS Adult Education (accs.edu) |
5) Child Care + 2‑1‑1
| Help | What it does | How to apply/contact |
|---|---|---|
| DHR Child Care Subsidy | Helps pay for licensed child care while you work/study/train | See eligibility and “Income Eligibility and Fee Criteria” at DHR Child Care. (dhr.alabama.gov) |
| 2‑1‑1 Connects Alabama | Statewide referral line for child care, rent, utility help, etc. | Dial 2‑1‑1 or 888‑421‑1266; text ZIP to 898‑211; 211ConnectsAlabama.org. (211connectsalabama.org) |
Real‑World Example: Stacking Aid at a Community College
- You enroll half‑time in a 9‑month Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program on the ETPL.
- Your FAFSA yields 4,000∗∗Pell,plus∗∗4,000** Pell, plus **1,000 FSEOG from your college. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- You get $2,500 ASAP after your college receives state funds. (ache.edu)
- The Career Center adds a WIOA ITA to cover remaining tuition and books (amount varies by area). (wioa-alabama.org)
- DHR Child Care Subsidy helps with daycare while you attend class/clinicals. (dhr.alabama.gov)
Out‑of‑pocket: $0 for tuition/fees; you cover gas and some supplies.
What to Do If You Hit a Dead End
- Call your nearest Career Center and ask for a case manager; bring your denial letters and we’ll find the next option. (labor.alabama.gov)
- Ask your college about tuition waivers, emergency micro‑grants, food pantry, and loaner laptops.
- Dial 2‑1‑1 for a 3‑way call with a local agency that can help with short‑term bills while you finish the semester. (211connectsalabama.org)
10 Alabama‑Specific FAQs
- I work part‑time. Can I still get Pell and ASAP?
Yes—Pell adjusts to your enrollment level; ASAP is need‑based at Alabama colleges. File FAFSA early. (fsapartners.ed.gov, ache.edu) - What’s the 2025–26 Pell maximum?
7,395∗∗(minimum∗∗7,395** (minimum **740). (fsapartners.ed.gov) - My program is only 8–10 months. Can I get help?
Yes—Pell can cover certificate programs; WIOA ITAs commonly fund short‑term programs on the ETPL; ACCS short‑term reimbursement pays up to $4,500 after completion. (wioa-alabama.org, accs.edu) - I want to teach. What’s the TEACH Grant amount and catch?
Up to $3,772 in 2025–26 due to federal sequester; you must teach in a high‑need field at a low‑income school for 4 years or it converts to a loan. (fsapartners.ed.gov) - Can the Alabama National Guard pay my tuition while I serve?
Yes—ANGEAP can cover remaining tuition/fees up to about $6,017.50/semester at state schools; apply every term. (myairforcebenefits.us.af.mil) - I need child care to attend nursing school. Any help?
Apply for the DHR Child Care Subsidy and ask your Career Center about other supports. (dhr.alabama.gov) - I aged out of foster care. What covers my tuition?
Check the Fostering Hope Scholarship (tuition/required fees) and ETV up to $5,000/year. (navigator.alabama.gov) - Can I get money to move my child to a private school this year?
If eligible, the CHOOSE Act ESA pays 7,000∗∗(privateschool)or∗∗7,000** (private school) or **2,000 (home education) for 2025–26. Follow the state’s application timeline. (revenue.alabama.gov, governor.alabama.gov) - Where do I find office phone numbers without Googling for hours?
Use the AlabamaWorks locator for Career Centers or dial 2‑1‑1 for local agencies. (labor.alabama.gov, 211connectsalabama.org) - How long until aid arrives?
Pell/FSEOG usually disburse near term start after you register; WIOA approvals often 2–6 weeks; ANGEAP pays at term end; child care subsidy can have a waitlist. Refer to your school and agencies for exact timing. (ache.edu)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Alabama Commission on Higher Education, Alabama Department of Revenue, Alabama Department of Human Resources, Alabama Career Center/AlabamaWorks, U.S. Department of Education, 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, and deadlines can change. Always verify on the official website or with the agency/college before you apply or decide.
- We link only to official government pages or established nonprofits whenever possible and never ask for your SSN or bank info. Protect yourself from scams. Keep your device updated, use strong passwords, and avoid entering personal information on non‑secure sites (look for https).
- This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or tax advice.
Sources (select)
- Pell Grant 2025–26 maximum/minimum and rules; FSA Handbook (Pell). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- FSEOG award limits and campus‑based funding notice. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- TEACH Grant sequestration amount for FY 2026 (2025–26 awards). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Alabama Student Assistance Program and Alabama Student Grant Program (ACHE). (ache.edu, regulations.justia.com)
- CHOOSE Act ESA amounts and 2025 application window (Governor press release; ALDOR program page). (governor.alabama.gov, revenue.alabama.gov)
- ACCS Short‑Term Credential Scholarship (up to $4,500). (accs.edu)
- GED Alabama costs and state “See4Free” voucher info. (ged.com, accs.edu)
- Alabama National Guard Educational Assistance Program (ANGEAP) amounts and term deadlines. (myairforcebenefits.us.af.mil, ache.edu)
- Alabama G.I. Dependents’ Scholarship (ADVA). (va.alabama.gov)
- Fostering Hope Scholarship and ETV for former foster youth (Kinship Navigator). (navigator.alabama.gov)
- Alabama Career Center locator (AlabamaWorks) and sample center phones. (labor.alabama.gov, legalconsumer.com, centralalabamaworks.com, business.saralandchamber.com)
- DHR Child Care Subsidy program and eligibility page. (dhr.alabama.gov)
- Auburn University 2025–26 cost of attendance example. (auburn.edu)
What we didn’t include numbers for: WIOA ITA dollar caps vary by local workforce board and are not set statewide; confirm with your local Alabama Career Center. Child care subsidy income thresholds are posted by DHR in their Income Eligibility and Fee Criteria table; check the current chart linked above. (wioa-alabama.org, dhr.alabama.gov)
🏛️More Alabama Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Alabama
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
