Education Grants for Single Mothers in Idaho
Idaho Education Grants for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This page is built for Idaho single moms who need real, practical help paying for college or job training. Every program below comes with exact dollar amounts, income limits, deadlines, how to apply, and what to do if Plan A falls through.
Quick Help Box
- Need fast money for fall classes? File the FAFSA today and ask your school to rush‑process your aid offer. Then apply for Idaho state grants below. Use your school’s emergency aid if classes start before aid disburses.
- For adult learners returning after a break, start with the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship for Adult Learners (up to $3,500/year) and talk with your local Idaho Department of Labor office about WIOA training help.
- If you’re a recent Idaho high school grad (or a teen/young single mom), check Idaho LAUNCH (covers 80% of tuition and fees up to $8,000) for in‑demand programs.
- Struggling with child care while you study or train? Apply for Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP). 2025 income limit for a family of 3 is $2,798/month gross. Call 877‑456‑1233 to apply.
- Grew up in foster care? Idaho’s ETV can add up to $5,000/year for school costs not covered by other aid.
- Military and veteran moms: Post‑9/11 GI Bill can cover full in‑state tuition at public colleges, plus monthly housing at the E‑5 with dependents rate and up to $1,000 per year for books.
Quick Reference: What’s worth your time first
| Action | Why it matters | Where to do it |
|---|---|---|
| File the 2025–26 FAFSA (and 2026–27 if you’ll be in school next fall) | Pell Grant up to $7,395; unlocks most other aid | FAFSA via your school’s aid portal; Pell amounts for 2025–26 confirmed by Federal Student Aid. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| Apply for Idaho Opportunity Scholarship (traditional) | Up to $3,500/year, renewable | Idaho State Board of Education scholarship page (reopens October 2025). (boardofed.idaho.gov) |
| Apply for Idaho Opportunity Scholarship for Adult Learners | Up to $3,500/year, deadlines: Summer Apr 15, Fall Jul 1 | Adult Learners application page. (boardofed.idaho.gov) |
| Consider Idaho LAUNCH (recent HS grads) | Covers 80% of tuition/fees up to $8,000 one time; app window Oct 1–Apr 15 | Next Steps Idaho LAUNCH page. (nextsteps.idaho.gov) |
| If you used foster care services | ETV adds up to $5,000/year for unmet costs | Idaho DHW ETV page. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| Need child care to study | ICCP pays part of care; 2025 income limit (HH3) $2,798/mo | Apply via DHW; phone 877‑456‑1233. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
Federal Grants You Should Claim First
Federal Pell Grant (2025–26)
- Maximum scheduled award for 2025–26: 7,395∗∗.Minimumaward:∗∗7,395**. Minimum award: **740. Your exact amount depends on your Student Aid Index (SAI), family size, and enrollment intensity (full/part‑time). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- How Pell is decided for single parents: You can qualify for Max or Minimum Pell by income-to-poverty ratios specific to single‑parent households (e.g., Max Pell when AGI ≤ 225% of poverty for single parents; Min Pell at higher thresholds), or by SAI formula. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Year‑round Pell: You can receive up to 150% of your scheduled award if you study in summer as well. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
What to do now
- File the FAFSA. Your school calculates Pell and adjusts for part‑time status.
- Ask your aid office how soon Pell disburses (often the first week of classes); request a bookstore advance if you need books before then.
Required documents
- Photo ID, SSN, 2023 tax info for 2025–26 FAFSA, proof of household size.
Common pitfalls
- Waiting on taxes: you can still start the FAFSA.
- Not updating enrollment intensity (credits) — this changes your Pell amount mid‑term.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If Pell isn’t enough, stack FSEOG (below), state grants, and see your school’s emergency fund.
Table: Federal Pell and FSEOG at a glance
| Program | 2025–26 Max | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | $7,395 | SAI‑based; Max/Min Pell rules help single parent households. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| FSEOG | 4,000∗∗typicalmax(upto∗∗4,000** typical max (up to **4,400 for approved study abroad); minimum $100 | Limited funds at schools; file FAFSA early. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
- Amounts range 100–100–4,000 a year (schools may allow $4,400 for approved study abroad). Funding is limited and awarded to students with the highest need (often Pell recipients first). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- How to apply: Complete FAFSA; your school awards FSEOG automatically if funds remain.
Reality check and timeline
- FSEOG is first‑come at many campuses. If you filed late, ask the aid office to waitlist you for spring/summer awarding.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask about Federal Work‑Study or a one‑time professional judgment review (e.g., if your 2025 income dropped).
Idaho State Grants and Scholarships (Most Moms Use These)
Idaho Opportunity Scholarship (traditional)
- Amount: up to $3,500 per year, renewable up to four years. (boardofed.idaho.gov)
- Eligibility highlights: Idaho resident; 2.7+ unweighted GPA; graduate of an Idaho high school/home school/GED; attend an eligible Idaho college; FAFSA and application typically due March 1. The 2025–26 cycle is closed and reopens October 2025. (boardofed.idaho.gov)
- Where to apply: State Board of Education Scholarship page (Scholarship Idaho). (boardofed.idaho.gov)
What to do first
- Mark your calendar to open your application in October 2025 and submit by the posted March 1 deadline (FAFSA also by March 1).
Required documents
- FAFSA Submission Summary, transcript showing GPA, proof of Idaho residency.
Common mistakes
- Missing the FAFSA by March 1.
- Assuming private colleges aren’t eligible (several Idaho private/nonprofit options are). (boardofed.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Apply for the Adult Learner version (below) if you had a break in enrollment.
Idaho Opportunity Scholarship for Adult Learners
- Amount: up to $3,500 per year, renewable. Deadlines: Apr 15 (summer start) and Jul 1 (fall start). Targeted to Idaho residents who previously earned 24+ college credits and stepped away at least 24 months (no more than 2 classes in last 24 months). Min 2.5 GPA to apply (2.7 if selected). (boardofed.idaho.gov)
- Eligible colleges include BSU, U of I, ISU, LCSC, Idaho community colleges, WGU and more. (boardofed.idaho.gov)
What to do first
- File FAFSA; submit the Adult Learner application by your start‑term deadline.
Required documents
- Unofficial transcript to show prior credits, FAFSA, proof you’ve been out of school.
Common mistakes
- Taking a random class in the last 2 years — this can break “not currently enrolled” rules. Read eligibility carefully. (boardofed.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your college about adult‑student completion grants or emergency aid; contact Idaho Department of Labor about WIOA training help (below).
Table: Idaho state scholarships (2025–26)
| Program | Amount | Core eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Opportunity Scholarship (traditional) | Up to $3,500/yr (renewable up to 4 yrs) | Idaho resident; 2.7+ GPA; graduate of ID HS/home school/GED; FAFSA by March 1; eligible colleges listed by SBOE | Application reopens Oct 2025; due around Mar 1. (boardofed.idaho.gov) |
| Opportunity Scholarship for Adult Learners | Up to $3,500/yr (renewable) | Idaho resident; 24+ prior credits; out of school ≥24 months; min 2.5 GPA to apply | Apr 15 (summer) / Jul 1 (fall). (boardofed.idaho.gov) |
| Idaho LAUNCH (recent HS grads) | 80% tuition/fees up to $8,000 one time | ID HS/home/GED grads; in‑demand programs; must start by fall after graduation; CPP requirement | App opens Oct 1; closes Apr 15; CPP due May 31. (nextsteps.idaho.gov) |
| Governor’s Cup Scholarship | 5,000∗∗academic(renewableupto4yrs)/∗∗5,000** academic (renewable up to 4 yrs) / **3,000 CTE (up to 3 yrs) | Idaho HS seniors; 2.8+ GPA; community service; Idaho colleges only | Opens Oct 2025 (watch SBOE page). (boardofed.idaho.gov) |
| GEAR UP Idaho Scholarship 3 | Varies by funds | Must have participated in GEAR UP at listed schools (2019–2025 cohorts); FAFSA by March 1; Idaho colleges | Opens Oct 1. (boardofed.idaho.gov) |
Idaho LAUNCH (for recent high school grads — including teen moms)
- What it pays: One‑time grant covering 80% of tuition and fees up to $8,000 for approved “in‑demand” programs; typically split half the first year unless the program is under 12 months. Application window: opens Oct 1; closes Apr 15; CPP due May 31. Not a need‑based program (FAFSA encouraged but not required). (nextsteps.idaho.gov)
- Contact: idaholaunch@wdc.idaho.gov or 208‑488‑7575 (listed on Next Steps Idaho LAUNCH page). (nextsteps.idaho.gov)
Reality check
- For adult learners (over HS senior age), Idaho LAUNCH for Adults exists through the Workforce Development Council and Idaho Department of Labor; funding varies by program and availability. Apply and speak with a career planner to confirm the exact amount for your training. (idaholaunch.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- If your program isn’t on the LAUNCH list, WIOA Adult (Idaho Department of Labor) can fund many short‑term credentials (see below).
Special Programs Many Idaho Single Moms Qualify For
Education & Training Voucher (ETV) — former foster youth
- Amount: Up to $5,000 per year for tuition/fees, housing, child care, transportation, books, computer, and other required equipment, after other aid is applied. Age 16–26, with foster care or certain permanency after age 16. Max five cumulative years. Email IL‑ETV@dhw.idaho.gov to apply. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What to do first
- File FAFSA, then submit the ETV application and your award letter.
Common mistakes
- Skipping the “Independent Living” verification. Work with your regional coordinator early.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your campus about Fostering Success or similar supports for former foster youth; some schools offer tuition waivers or emergency funds.
Veteran and Military Education Benefits (including Guard/Reserve)
- Post‑9/11 GI Bill at public colleges: covers the net in‑state tuition and mandatory fees at your eligibility tier; at private schools, a capped annual amount applies (for 2025–26: 29,920.95∗∗).MonthlyhousingallowanceequalstheDoDBAHforan∗∗E‑5withdependents∗∗foryourcampusZIP;bookstipendupto∗∗29,920.95**). Monthly housing allowance equals the DoD BAH for an **E‑5 with dependents** for your campus ZIP; book stipend up to **1,000/year. (va.gov)
- VA explains how “resident rate” and Yellow Ribbon work if tuition exceeds caps. (va.gov, benefits.va.gov)
What to do first
- Talk to your school’s VA Certifying Official and apply through VA.gov.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Consider apprenticeships that pay a GI Bill housing allowance during training; Idaho Department of Labor can connect you. (labor.idaho.gov)
Tribal higher‑education support (for enrolled members)
- Shoshone‑Bannock: Higher Education scholarship deadlines for 2025–26 were May 1 (Fall) and Oct 1 (Spring); graduate support also available (varies). Contacts listed on the tribal site. (sbtribes.com)
- Nez Perce Tribe: Higher Education Scholarship application opened June 1, 2025; support for academic and CTE pathways, with staff contacts provided. (nezperce.org)
- Kootenai Tribe of Idaho: education program can assist with tuition, fees, books, and supplies; contact the Education Director. (kootenai.org)
- Shoshone‑Paiute (Duck Valley): higher‑ed/AVT scholarship deadlines posted (e.g., Fall apps due third week of June; Spring quarter/semester dates vary). (shopaitribes.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your college’s Native American student center about campus‑based scholarship funds and tuition reciprocity options.
Make School Possible: Child Care, Training Help, and Work Supports
Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP)
- Who qualifies: Must live in Idaho, use a registered provider, and be working, in approved job training, or in school (undergraduate). 2025 gross income limits (selected): family of 2—2,215/mo∗∗,∗∗3—2,215/mo**, **3—2,798/mo, 4—$3,380/mo. Apply by phone or online. Phone 877‑456‑1233. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- 2024–25 program updates: DHW resumed new applications Jan 13, 2025; initial eligibility set to 130% FPL for new applicants; provider rate changes to the 65th percentile planned for July 1, 2025. A waitlist may be used to control budget if needed. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- What it pays: A portion of your child care cost based on state market rates and your income; you pay a copay. DHW posts the copay chart and market rate info. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What to do first
- Apply as soon as you enroll in classes or training; tell DHW your hours and provider info.
Required documents
- ID, proof of income, class or training schedule, child(ren)’s citizenship/immigration status (if applicable).
Common mistakes
- Using an unregistered provider; program can’t pay them.
- Not reporting changes within 10 days (can cause overpayments). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask your campus Children’s Center about student discounts and waitlists (e.g., University of Idaho student families get a 15% reduction; call 208‑885‑6414). (uidaho.edu)
Table: ICCP 2025 gross income limits (selected)
| Household | Max gross monthly income |
|---|---|
| 2 | $2,215 |
| 3 | $2,798 |
| 4 | $3,380 |
| 5 | $3,963 |
| 6 | $4,546 |
| Source: Idaho DHW (effective January 2025). (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) — training funds and supports
- What it can pay for: Short‑term training/tuition, books, tests, tools, and supportive services; plus job placement and on‑the‑job training. Services delivered by Equus Workforce Solutions through the Idaho Department of Labor. (labor.idaho.gov)
- Where to get help: Your local Idaho Department of Labor office (numbers below) can screen you and refer you to WIOA and related services. Program pages and office directory are on labor.idaho.gov. (labor.idaho.gov)
Reality check
- Exact dollar caps vary and depend on your training plan and local policy. A career planner will confirm what tuition and supportive costs they can cover in your case. If you qualify but funding is tight, ask about timing your start for the next allocation release.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Check Idaho LAUNCH for Adults funding through the Workforce Development Council and ask your career planner about stacking WIOA with LAUNCH where allowed. (idaholaunch.com)
SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) and TAFI work supports
- If you get SNAP or TAFI, you can access the E&T program for tuition help, GED, transportation, work gear, and coaching. DHW contracts with MAXIMUS: call 844‑977‑1600, email CMSLIdaho@maximus.com, or visit the E&T page to get connected. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (IDVR)
- If you have a disability, IDVR may help with tuition, books, equipment, and job placement as part of your vocational plan. Start with a VR counselor through the Labor site. (labor.idaho.gov)
How Much Will School Actually Cost in Idaho?
Use these 2025–26 posted rates to estimate your gap after grants.
Table: Public university tuition/fees (resident undergrad, per semester unless noted)
| School | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boise State University (11–16 credits) | $4,682/semester (resident) |
| University of Idaho (full‑time) | $4,700/semester (resident; see schedule) |
| Idaho State University (annual tuition est.) | $8,914/year resident tuition (COA page) |
| Lewis‑Clark State College (12–19 credits) | $3,938/semester resident |
| Sources: BSU, U of I, ISU, LCSC official pages. (boisestate.edu, uidaho.edu, isu.edu, lcsc.edu) |
Table: Community college lower‑division tuition (2025–26)
| College | Resident in‑district per credit | Non‑resident per credit |
|---|---|---|
| College of Western Idaho | $156 | $320 |
| College of Southern Idaho | $147 | $292 |
| North Idaho College | About $147 (scales by credits) | Scales; e.g., $370 at 1 credit |
| College of Eastern Idaho | (site shows earlier schedule) typically 140–140–150 per credit; confirm current term with CEI Cashier’s Office 208‑535‑5352 | Varies by residency |
| Sources: CWI, CSI, NIC, CEI. (cwi.edu, csi.edu, nic.edu, cei.edu) |
Tip: Always check your school’s “Cost of Attendance” for living costs and book estimates before you decide how much to borrow. (isu.edu)
Real‑World Stacking Example
Maria is a Boise mom of two, returning part‑time (9 credits) to finish an AAS in Medical Assisting at CWI.
- Tuition/fees: 9 credits × 156∗∗=∗∗156** = **1,404. (cwi.edu)
- Aid stack: Pell (7,395∗∗maxannual;part‑timeprorates),AdultLearnerOpportunityScholarship(∗∗7,395** max annual; part‑time prorates), Adult Learner Opportunity Scholarship (**3,500), possible FSEOG (if her school has funds), ICCP child care help (if under ICCP income limit), and SNAP E&T for test fees/transport. (fsapartners.ed.gov, boardofed.idaho.gov, healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- If she’s still short: Her Idaho Department of Labor career planner can check WIOA tuition support or on‑the‑job training. (labor.idaho.gov)
Timeline: FAFSA and Adult Learner app done by Jul 1 for fall; ICCP submitted as soon as class schedule is set; appointment with Labor office in June; aid disburses at start of term. (boardofed.idaho.gov)
Step‑by‑Step: Finish Applications in a Weekend
- Saturday morning: Create FSA ID and file FAFSA (use 2023 taxes for 2025–26).
- Saturday afternoon: Submit Idaho Opportunity Scholarship app (or Adult Learner) in Scholarship Idaho; upload transcript.
- Sunday: If you’re a recent HS grad, complete the Idaho LAUNCH application and draft your Career Pathway Plan.
- Monday: Call your local Idaho Department of Labor office to ask about WIOA and set a meeting.
- Tuesday: Start ICCP application (if you need child care to attend class or training).
Application Checklist (print this)
- Photo ID and Social Security number
- 2023 federal tax return (you and spouse if filing jointly)
- FAFSA Submission Summary (once processed)
- Unofficial transcripts (to show GPA and prior credits)
- Proof of Idaho residency (driver’s license, lease, etc.)
- Class schedule or training plan (for ICCP and WIOA)
- Child care provider info (for ICCP)
- If applicable: foster care verification (ETV), DD‑214/COE (VA), Tribal enrollment letter (Tribal scholarships)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the state deadlines (Opportunity Scholarship by March 1; Adult Learner Apr 15/Jul 1; LAUNCH windows Oct–Apr).
- Not opening the FAFSA early — aid can’t be packaged without it.
- Taking one or two “just to try it” classes before applying for Adult Learner — this can make you ineligible.
- Using unregistered child care — ICCP can’t pay those providers.
- Assuming “I make too much” for ICCP or Pell. Check the current income charts and SAI/Pell rules that favor single‑parent households.
Diverse Communities: Targeted Help and Tips
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your campus financial aid office about name/preferred name updates on records and family resource centers; ICCP and Pell base eligibility on income and household, not orientation.
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apply to IDVR for training supports and accommodations; ask your school’s disability services for testing and course adjustments. (labor.idaho.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Use Post‑9/11 GI Bill; VA will cover in‑state public tuition at your eligibility tier, plus MHA at the E‑5 with dependents BAH for your campus ZIP and up to $1,000 for books. (va.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee moms: If your child is a U.S. citizen, they can be the ICCP case child; check ICCP eligibility rules; Pell/FAFSA requires eligible non‑citizen status for the student.
- Tribal‑specific resources: Contact your tribal education office early; many have strict deadlines (e.g., Shoshone‑Bannock May/July/Dec windows; Nez Perce opened June 1, 2025). (sbtribes.com, nezperce.org)
- Rural moms with long drives: Ask WIOA about fuel or mileage support; VA offers a one‑time $500 rural relocation stipend for eligible GI Bill users moving 500+ miles. (va.gov)
- Single fathers: All state/federal programs above are gender‑neutral; same rules apply.
- Language access: Idaho DHW and Labor offices can arrange interpreters upon request; ask when you set your appointment.
Resources by Region (Idaho Department of Labor — training help and WIOA)
- Boise: 208‑332‑3575, 317 W. Main St, Boise. (labor.idaho.gov)
- Caldwell: 208‑364‑7781, 4514 Thomas Jefferson St. (labor.idaho.gov)
- Burley: 208‑678‑5518, 127 W. 5th St. N. (labor.idaho.gov)
- Idaho Falls: 208‑557‑2500, 1515 E. Lincoln Rd. (labor.idaho.gov)
- Lewiston: 208‑799‑5000, 1158 Idaho St. (labor.idaho.gov)
- Pocatello: 208‑236‑6710, 430 N. 5th Ave. (labor.idaho.gov)
- Post Falls: 208‑457‑8789, 600 N. Thornton St. (labor.idaho.gov)
- Twin Falls: 208‑735‑2500, 601 Pole Line Rd. (labor.idaho.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Best first step | Amounts to know |
|---|---|---|
| General college grant | FAFSA → Pell Grant | Max 7,395∗∗(2025–26);Min∗∗7,395** (2025–26); Min **740. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| Extra federal grant | Ask for FSEOG after FAFSA | 100–100–4,000 (limited funds). (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| Idaho resident grant | Opportunity Scholarship | Up to $3,500/yr; due Mar 1. (boardofed.idaho.gov) |
| Adult learner | Opportunity Scholarship—Adult Learners | Up to $3,500/yr; Apr 15/Jul 1. (boardofed.idaho.gov) |
| Workforce training (recent grads) | Idaho LAUNCH | 80% tuition/fees up to $8,000. (nextsteps.idaho.gov) |
| Child care so you can study | ICCP | 2025 HH3 limit $2,798/mo; call 877‑456‑1233. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| Former foster youth | ETV | Up to $5,000/yr. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) |
| Veterans | Post‑9/11 GI Bill | In‑state public tuition, MHA (E‑5 w/dependents), books $1,000/yr. (va.gov) |
10 Idaho‑Specific FAQs
- Do I have to choose between Idaho LAUNCH and the Opportunity Scholarship?
Yes. For recent HS grads, LAUNCH is a one‑time award up to 8,000∗∗forin‑demandprograms;OpportunityScholarshipisupto∗∗8,000** for in‑demand programs; Opportunity Scholarship is up to **3,500/year and renewable. Compare your program type and total cost, then pick the better fit. (nextsteps.idaho.gov, boardofed.idaho.gov) - I’m 28, stopped college 3 years ago, and have 30 credits. Can I use the Adult Learner Scholarship?
Likely yes if you meet the “not currently enrolled” and GPA rules and apply by Apr 15 (summer) or Jul 1 (fall). (boardofed.idaho.gov) - Does ICCP count school as a valid activity?
Yes, ICCP helps families so parents can work, complete job training, or finish school (undergraduate). Confirm hours and provider registration. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) - What if my ICCP income is a little over the limit?
You may be denied. Ask DHW about income deductions and when to reapply. Also check campus child care discounts (e.g., U of I student rate reduction 15%). (uidaho.edu) - Can WIOA pay for my whole program?
Sometimes for short‑term credentials; amounts vary by plan and funds. A career planner will tell you what’s possible for your field and region. (labor.idaho.gov) - I’m a former foster youth with a toddler. Can ETV cover child care?
Yes, ETV can cover child care and other expenses not paid by other aid, up to $5,000/year. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov) - I take 100% online classes. Do VA benefits still pay housing?
For Post‑9/11 GI Bill, fully online learners get up to $1,169/month (half national MHA average) instead of the local resident rate. (va.gov) - Is FAFSA required for Idaho LAUNCH?
No, but LAUNCH covers only 80%/up to $8,000, so completing FAFSA helps cover the rest. (nextsteps.idaho.gov) - Are private Idaho colleges eligible for the Opportunity Scholarship?
Yes—several nonprofit private colleges are listed as eligible schools. (boardofed.idaho.gov) - Where can I get one‑on‑one help to pick the right program?
- Idaho Department of Labor career planners (numbers by city above). (labor.idaho.gov)
- Scholarship Idaho and Next Steps Idaho for state scholarships/LAUNCH guidance. (boardofed.idaho.gov, nextsteps.idaho.gov)
“If Plan A Fails” — Fast Plan B Options by Situation
- ICCP denied or waitlisted: Ask your school about on‑campus child care discounts/waitlists; use IdahoSTARS to find lower‑cost licensed providers; consider evening classes to match free care. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- Missed Opportunity Scholarship deadline: Apply for Adult Learner (if eligible) or use LAUNCH (if a recent grad). Ask your campus for completion grants and emergency aid; file early next October. (boardofed.idaho.gov, nextsteps.idaho.gov)
- Pell too low: Request a professional judgment review (e.g., job loss); add FSEOG and WIOA if eligible. (fsapartners.ed.gov, labor.idaho.gov)
- Need fast training with placement: Ask Labor about on‑the‑job training, apprenticeships, and short‑term credentials that lead to immediate hiring. (labor.idaho.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Idaho 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, dollar amounts, and deadlines change. Always confirm details with the agency, college, or official program site linked here before you commit.
- We never ask for your personal information. Keep your SSN, FAFSA logins, and documents secure. If a site asks you to pay for FAFSA or a state grant application, it’s a scam — report it to your school and the agency.
Sources and Key Links
- Federal Pell Grant 2025–26 maximum/minimum and rules; FSA Handbook references. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- FSEOG award rules. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Idaho Opportunity Scholarship (traditional) and Adult Learners pages; Idaho Scholarships overview. (boardofed.idaho.gov)
- Idaho LAUNCH (Next Steps Idaho program pages and flyers). (nextsteps.idaho.gov)
- Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP) eligibility, income limits, application; program updates. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- ETV (Education & Training Voucher) details. (healthandwelfare.idaho.gov)
- WIOA program overview, Adult/Dislocated Worker services, local office directory. (labor.idaho.gov)
- Post‑9/11 GI Bill coverage, rates, MHA rules, and books stipend. (va.gov)
- Tribal education resources: Shoshone‑Bannock, Nez Perce, Kootenai, Shoshone‑Paiute. (sbtribes.com, nezperce.org, kootenai.org, shopaitribes.org)
- University/college tuition and COA references (BSU, U of I, ISU, LCSC; community colleges CWI, CSI, NIC; CEI cashier contact). (boisestate.edu, uidaho.edu, isu.edu, lcsc.edu, cwi.edu, csi.edu, nic.edu, cei.edu)
Reality note: Some Idaho pages shift content during the year (e.g., scholarship portals that show “closed” off‑cycle). If a link looks different when you click, use the phone or email listed on that page to confirm current windows and amounts the same day you apply.
🏛️More Idaho Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Idaho
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- 👨👩👧 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
