Education Grants for Single Mothers in Kentucky
Kentucky Education Grants for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is your practical, numbers‑first hub for real tuition help and the supportive programs that keep you in school. Every amount and rule below comes from official Kentucky or federal sources and links straight to the agency page for quick action.
Quick help (start here)
- File the FAFSA now for 2025–26. The federal deadline is June 30, 2026 (schools and Kentucky grants run out earlier). Use Studentaid.gov – FAFSA. If you get stuck, call 1‑800‑433‑3243 (Federal Student Aid) or the KHEAA FAFSA helpline 888‑452‑7322. (fsapartners.ed.gov, evolve502.org)
- Stack these first: Federal Pell Grant (up to 7,395∗∗),KentuckyCAPGrant(∗∗upto7,395**), Kentucky CAP Grant (**up to 2,500 at 2‑year schools or 5,300∗∗at4‑year),andifyou’reinahigh‑demandcertificate/AAS,theWorkReadyKentuckyScholarship(coverstherestofKCTCSin‑statetuition,plusupto∗∗5,300** at 4‑year), and if you’re in a high‑demand certificate/AAS, the Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship (covers the rest of KCTCS in‑state tuition, plus up to **400 in fees per year). Apply via FAFSA + MyKHEAA. (fsapartners.ed.gov, kheaa.com)
- Need childcare to stay in class? Apply for Kentucky’s CCAP by phone 855‑306‑8959 or online at kynect benefits. CCAP eligibility goes up to 85% of State Median Income; co‑pays and rates are set by regulation. (chfs.ky.gov, apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- On TANF (KTAP) or could be? KTAP pays up to $524/mo for a family of 3 and unlocks “Ready to Work” paid work‑study and help with transportation/childcare at KCTCS. Start at DCBS 855‑306‑8959 or your campus RTW office. (apps.legislature.ky.gov, kctcs.edu)
- Don’t see a fit yet? Dial 211 or visit Kentucky 211 for 24/7 referrals to tuition, childcare, housing, and emergency aid near you. (kentucky211.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (scan and click)
| Program | 2025–26 Amount/Limit | Who Qualifies | How to Apply | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Up to 7,395(min7,395 (min 740) | Undergrads with financial need | FAFSA at Studentaid.gov | 150% “year‑round Pell” possible. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| KY CAP Grant | Up to 2,500(2‑yr)/2,500 (2‑yr) / 5,300 (4‑yr) | KY residents, Pell‑eligible, ≥ half‑time | FAFSA; awards first‑come | Limits set in regulation; apply early. (kheaa.com, apps.legislature.ky.gov) |
| KY Tuition Grant (KTG) | Up to $3,300 (last posted 2024–25) | KY residents at eligible private colleges | FAFSA | First‑come, school determines need. Verify annual max with KHEAA. (kheaa.com) |
| Work Ready KY Scholarship (WRKS) | Last‑dollar up to KCTCS in‑state tuition + up to $400 fees/yr | No prior associate’s; approved high‑demand programs | FAFSA + WRKS app in MyKHEAA | Not more than KCTCS rate; first‑come. (kheaa.com) |
| FSEOG | Usually 100–100–4,000/yr | Undergrads with exceptional need | FAFSA; campus awards | Campus‑limited funds; Pell recipients first. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| TEACH Grant | Up to $3,772 (after sequestration) | Teacher prep; service commitment | FAFSA + TEACH counseling | Converts to loan if service not met. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| KCTCS Tuition (2025–26) | 195/credit∗∗+∗∗195/credit** + **8/credit mandatory fee | KY community colleges | Apply to your KCTCS college | Online courses add $20/credit distance fee. (kctcs.edu) |
| CCAP Child Care | Up to state max rates; copay based on income | Working or in school; ≤85% SMI | Call 855‑306‑8959 or apply at kynect | See DCC‑300 rate chart and 922 KAR 2:160. (chfs.ky.gov) |
| KTAP (TANF) cash | Payment max e.g., family of 3 = $524/mo | Low‑income families with kids | Call 855‑306‑8959 or kynect | Gross income limits set by 921 KAR 2:016. (apps.legislature.ky.gov) |
What you can (and should) stack first
- FAFSA unlocks Pell + FSEOG + TEACH, and it’s the gatekeeper for CAP/KTG/WRKS. The 2025–26 FAFSA accepts applications through June 30, 2026; don’t wait—state money runs out. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- If you’re in a certificate/diploma/AAS in Construction, Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing & Logistics, or Professional/Scientific/Technical Services, add WRKS to cover gaps left after Pell/CAP. (kheaa.com)
- If child care is the barrier to class time, submit CCAP now (phone 855‑306‑8959) and ask your college if it has a CCAMPIS grant or on‑campus child care help. (chfs.ky.gov, ccampis.eku.edu)
Federal Grants (FAFSA programs)
Federal Pell Grant
Most single moms qualify for some Pell. For 2025–26, the max is 7,395∗∗andtheminimumis∗∗7,395** and the minimum is **740. Pell is based on your Student Aid Index (SAI), family size, and single‑parent status, and it can be used year‑round (up to 150% in a year if you attend summer). Apply with the FAFSA. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Eligibility highlights:
- You’re an undergrad without a prior bachelor’s; enrolled at least part time.
- SAI‑based award; many single‑parent households with low income get Max Pell. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- How to apply:
- File the FAFSA at Studentaid.gov. Federal deadline: June 30, 2026 for 2025–26; schools and Kentucky grants have earlier priority dates. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- What to submit:
- FSA IDs for you (and a contributor if needed), 2023 taxes, SSNs, and household info.
- Timeline:
- FAFSA processing is typically 1–3 days online; your school then sends an aid offer.
- Reality check:
- Pell doesn’t cover everything, but it stacks with CAP, WRKS, FSEOG, and KTG.
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call Federal Student Aid 1‑800‑433‑3243 for help resolving FAFSA snags, or contact your school’s aid office to appeal with a Special Circumstances form if your 2023 income no longer reflects your 2025 situation. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
FSEOG is extra Pell for the students with the most need. Awards usually range 100–100–4,000 per year depending on campus funds. Schools must prioritize Pell recipients. You don’t submit a separate application—just file FAFSA early. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your financial aid office about waitlists for late‑term funding or emergency aid, and apply for campus emergency funds (see examples below).
TEACH Grant (for future teachers)
If you’re in an eligible teacher‑prep program and agree to teach in a high‑need subject at a low‑income school, you may get up to $3,772 for 2025–26 (after sequestration). If you don’t meet the service terms, it converts to a loan with interest backdated. File FAFSA and complete TEACH counseling at your school. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Check whether your district offers local teacher‑residency stipends or loan‑forgiveness alternatives once you’re hired.
Kentucky State Grants and Scholarships (KHEAA)
All of these use FAFSA and are administered by the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA). For help, call KHEAA’s call center (800) 928‑8926 or use their outreach map. (gearupky.org)
College Access Program (CAP) Grant
- Amounts (current): up to 2,500∗∗at2‑yearcolleges;upto∗∗2,500** at 2‑year colleges; up to **5,300 at 4‑year colleges. Awards are first‑come by FAFSA date and prorated if you’re part‑time. (kheaa.com)
- Regulatory ceiling: CAP aggregate max for a year is 2,500∗∗(2‑year)/∗∗2,500** (2‑year) / **5,300 (4‑year), per 11 KAR 5:145. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- Eligibility:
- KY resident; FAFSA‑verified need; at least half‑time in a program of ≥2 years; no past due KHEAA/Title IV debts. (kheaa.com)
- Apply: FAFSA only; funds can and do run out—file early.
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your aid office about FSEOG, institutional grants, and emergency funds; if you’re in a high‑demand certificate/AAS, add WRKS to cover the remainder. (kheaa.com)
Kentucky Tuition Grant (KTG) – for private colleges
- Amount: KHEAA lists the 2024–25 max as $3,300. 2025–26 amounts are posted annually; verify with KHEAA or your college’s aid office. Awards are first‑come by FAFSA date. (kheaa.com)
- Eligibility: KY resident; full‑time in an associate/bachelor’s at an eligible private college; school determines remaining need after other aid. (kheaa.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your private college about institutional need grants, church‑affiliated funds, or accelerated payment plans.
Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship (WRKS) – “last‑dollar” for high‑demand programs
- What it covers: The amount remaining after Pell/CAP/other grants, up to the in‑state KCTCS tuition and fees rate; fees covered up to $400/year. Programs must be in approved high‑demand sectors (Construction, Education, Healthcare, Manufacturing & Logistics, Professional/Scientific/Technical Services). (kheaa.com)
- 2025–26 KCTCS rates to help you estimate: 195/credit∗∗tuition+∗∗195/credit** tuition + **8/credit mandatory fee; online adds 20/credit∗∗distancefee.Examplefull‑time(12credits,in‑person):about∗∗20/credit** distance fee. Example full‑time (12 credits, in‑person): about **2,436 per semester before books. Use the WRKS estimator in MyKHEAA. (kctcs.edu)
- Apply: File FAFSA, then complete the WRKS application in MyKHEAA. First‑come. (kheaa.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your KCTCS Ready to Work (RTW) office about paid TANF work‑study, transportation support, and SNAP E&T help (details below). (kctcs.edu)
KEES (Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship)
If you earned KEES in high school, you can still use it as an adult student if within five years of graduation and before reaching eight semesters total. Awards are based on your high‑school GPA and ACT/SAT bonus (e.g., base 125–125–500/year by GPA; plus ACT bonus). Check your KEES in your MyKHEAA account. (kheaa.com)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your college foundation about adult‑learner or “finish‑what‑you‑started” scholarships.
Local “last‑dollar” and student‑parent supports
Evolve502 (Louisville/JCPS grads)
If you graduated from Jefferson County Public Schools (or earned a GED within 12 months of your JCPS class year), you may qualify for a last‑dollar scholarship that covers tuition at any KCTCS college or Simmons College of Kentucky. Income‑eligible students (≤47,000household)mayalsoreceivean“OpportunityGrant”of∗∗47,000 household) may also receive an “Opportunity Grant” of **1,100/semester** for expenses. See Evolve502 Scholarship – details and deadlines. (evolve502.org)
- Transfer pathway: Evolve502 + 48 credits can open a 2+2 last‑dollar transfer to the University of Louisville. Contact UofL Adult & Transfer Services 502‑852‑0166. (louisville.edu)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your city/county foundation for “Promise” or “last‑dollar” scholarships; keep WRKS/CAP in play.
CCAMPIS (campus‑based child care)
Several KY campuses use federal CCAMPIS funds to subsidize student‑parent child care:
- Eastern Kentucky University – CCAMPIS supports the Student Child Care Assistance Program (SCCAP) for Pell‑eligible students (sliding‑scale awards; includes regional campuses). See EKU CCAMPIS. (ccampis.eku.edu)
- Hazard Community & Technical College – CCAMPIS grant provides childcare vouchers (grant total $582,304 over four years; up to 38 slots with participating centers). Contact 606‑487‑3426. (hazard.kctcs.edu)
- Bluegrass Community & Technical College – CCAMPIS has operated childcare subsidies (check current status; some cycles pause applications). (bluegrass.kctcs.edu)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Pair CCAP (state child care subsidy) with your campus child‑care center or licensed provider; apply via DCBS 855‑306‑8959. (chfs.ky.gov)
Childcare and living supports that make school possible
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
- Who it helps: Working or student parents. Eligibility is up to 85% of Kentucky’s State Median Income; family copays are set by 922 KAR 2:160. Apply by phone 855‑306‑8959 or online at kynect; rate chart DCC‑300 is posted on CHFS. (chfs.ky.gov, apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- Reality check: Providers may charge more than the state max rate; that “overage” plus your copay is your responsibility (KTAP or RTW can sometimes help cover related costs). (chfs.ky.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your college whether they have CCAMPIS (above), emergency childcare vouchers, or on‑campus centers with student discounts.
KTAP (TANF) + Ready to Work (RTW) at KCTCS
- KTAP amounts: Payment maximums are set by regulation (e.g., family of 3 = 524/month∗∗).Grossincomelimitsalsoapply(e.g.,familyof3≤∗∗524/month**). Gross income limits also apply (e.g., family of 3 ≤ **1,169/mo); lifetime limit 60 months. Apply via DCBS 855‑306‑8959 or kynect. (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- RTW services at KCTCS: Paid work‑study that does not reduce KTAP cash, mentoring, help with admissions/FAFSA, and access to daycare/transportation assistance. See KCTCS Ready to Work. Campus contacts are listed online; example (HCTC): 606‑487‑3646 / 606‑487‑3417. (kctcs.edu, hazard.kctcs.edu)
- Work & Learn (for GED/basic‑skills students on KTAP): paid placements, job readiness, and a $250 one‑time GED graduation bonus at some campuses. Example contact (MCC): 270‑824‑1891. (madisonville.kctcs.edu)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Visit a Kentucky Career Center for WIOA training support and to check if your program is on the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). Find your local office and phone at the KCC Locations tool. (kcc.ky.gov)
SNAP while in college: the single‑parent exemption
If you’re enrolled at least half‑time, you must meet a SNAP “student exemption” to qualify. One exemption is being a single parent enrolled full‑time with a child under 12. Caring for a child under 6 or having inadequate child care for a child 6–11 also qualifies. Apply through DCBS (kynect or 855‑306‑8959). (fns.usda.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) at your KCTCS RTW office—some programs pay for books/fees and transportation while you train. (kctcs.edu)
GED and adult education (for moms finishing high school first)
Kentucky Adult Education (KYAE) pays for your first GED test in each subject plus limited retakes (while funding lasts), and provides free prep and free GED Ready® practice tests. Start here: KYAE – Free GED Testing. (kyae.ky.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask KYAE or your local KCTCS about test‑fee vouchers or county adult‑ed scholarships.
Campus emergency grants (real-world bridges when life happens)
- University of Louisville – Student Emergency Fund (Dean of Students). Short‑term help for catastrophic events; priority when enrollment is at risk. Call 502‑852‑5787. (student.louisville.edu)
- EKU – SAFE (Student Assistance Fund for Eastern). Typical cap ~$300. (retentiongraduation.eku.edu)
- UofL Graduate School – Emergency Grant Fund. Typical cap ~$500. (louisville.edu)
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Dial 211 for local rent/utility/transportation assistance that can keep you enrolled. (kentucky211.org)
Step‑by‑step: How to apply in Kentucky (and win)
- Create your FSA ID and file FAFSA (2025–26 uses 2023 taxes)
- Federal deadline June 30, 2026 (schools and KHEAA award earlier/first‑come). If you need a human: 1‑800‑433‑3243. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Open a MyKHEAA account and check state aid
- See CAP/KTG/WRKS eligibility and complete the WRKS application if you’re in an approved program. (kheaa.com)
- If you need childcare to attend:
- Apply for CCAP (call 855‑306‑8959 or through kynect). Ask your campus if it has CCAMPIS or a child care center. (chfs.ky.gov, ccampis.eku.edu)
- If you’re a KTAP recipient (or likely eligible):
- Tell your KCTCS Ready to Work office immediately; ask for paid work‑study and help with transportation/childcare. (kctcs.edu)
- Meet with your college aid office
- Ask specifically about: FSEOG waitlists, institutional need grants, emergency funds, book vouchers, and payment plans.
- If you’re job‑seeking or laid off:
- Visit a Kentucky Career Center to ask about WIOA training funds and the “Approved Training” rule (can add up to 5 extra weeks of UI while in approved training). Use the KCC Locations tool to find the nearest office and number. (kcc.ky.gov)
Application checklist (have these ready)
- Photo ID; Social Security card (or A‑Number if applicable)
- 2023 federal tax return and W‑2s (for you/spouse if filing FAFSA)
- Proof of Kentucky residency (license, lease, bill)
- Class schedule/acceptance letter (for WRKS/aid packaging)
- Child’s birth certificate or custody papers (for CCAP/KTAP)
- Proof of income (pay stubs or benefits letters) for CCAP/KTAP
- Bank routing/account info for refunds
Reality checks, pitfalls, and how to avoid them
Common mistakes to avoid
- Filing FAFSA late. CAP/KTG/WRKS are first‑come. File ASAP—even if you’re undecided. (kheaa.com)
- Ignoring email from KHEAA/your aid office. Missing one document request can cancel awards.
- Under‑enrolling. WRKS needs you in an approved certificate/diploma/AAS; CAP/KTG prorate for part‑time. (kheaa.com)
- Not documenting childcare need. CCAP requires accurate provider info; keep your attendance statements and receipts. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Taking out loans you don’t need. Wait until Pell/CAP/WRKS/KTG are finalized before borrowing.
- Forgetting SNAP student exemptions. Single parents in school often qualify—don’t assume you’re ineligible. (fns.usda.gov)
What to do if something falls through
- Aid not enough this term? Ask for a cost‑of‑attendance increase for required tools/transportation; appeal with updated income if you had a layoff or reduced hours.
- No childcare yet? Ask your campus about CCAMPIS or a child‑care referral line; combine CCAP with part‑time classes for one term.
- On academic warning? Meet with your academic advisor to set an SAP plan before aid is pulled.
Real‑world examples (how the math can look)
- Example A: Community college medical assistant certificate (12 credits/term at KCTCS, in‑person). Tuition/fees ≈ 2,436∗∗/term.WithPell∗∗2,436**/term. With Pell **3,700 (example, not max) + CAP $2,500 (2‑yr cap), most or all tuition is covered; WRKS can fill any remaining tuition gap if the program is WRKS‑approved. Books/transport may need FSEOG or RTW work‑study. (kctcs.edu, kheaa.com)
- Example B: Private ADN program (full‑time). Pell + CAP (4‑yr cap 5,300∗∗)+KTG(upto∗∗5,300**) + KTG (up to **3,300 last posted) stack, but private tuition is higher—compare with a KCTCS ADN plus WRKS and a 2+2 RN‑BSN later. (kheaa.com)
(Amounts above are illustrations using official rates; your Pell/aid will vary.)
Diverse communities (tailored pointers)
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Ask your campus for name/pronoun and privacy options with financial aid; KHEAA outreach can help you file FAFSA with the right “parent” answers.
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children
- Request disability accommodation letters early; check if campus emergency funds can cover medical or adaptive tech (see UofL and EKU examples). (student.louisville.edu, retentiongraduation.eku.edu)
- Veteran single mothers / Guard & Reserve
- Kentucky National Guard Tuition Assistance pays 100% of in‑state public tuition (fall/spring, application deadlines Apr 1/Oct 1). Call 502‑607‑1039. Pair with Pell/CAP. (studentsuccess.uky.edu)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms
- Use free interpreters at DCBS (855‑306‑8959) and ask campus aid offices for language help when filing FAFSA/CCAP. (chfs.ky.gov)
- Tribal citizens in KY
- If you’re a member of a federally recognized tribe, contact your Tribal Education Office about higher‑ed grants and BIE scholarships; pair with Pell/CAP.
- Rural moms with limited internet/transport
- Use Kentucky Career Centers (phones listed by county) and public libraries for FAFSA filing. KCC Locations tool lets you search by county. (kcc.ky.gov)
- Single fathers raising children
- All grants here are gender‑neutral; apply the same way. RTW and CCAP support any eligible parent. (kctcs.edu)
- Language access
- CCAP/CHFS offers free interpreter services at (866) 291‑8931; many campuses have bilingual FAFSA workshops. (chfs.ky.gov)
Resources by region (get live help fast)
- Statewide
- KHEAA – grants/scholarships: (800) 928‑8926, outreach map and FAFSA help line 888‑452‑7322. KHEAA Programs & Contacts. (gearupky.org)
- Kentucky Career Center – find your local office and phone: KCC Locations. (kcc.ky.gov)
- Kentucky 211 – 24/7 referrals for childcare, rent, utilities, mental health: Dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898211. (kentucky211.org)
- Louisville/Jefferson County
- Evolve502 scholarship (KCTCS/Simmons; 2+2 to UofL): 502‑419‑4011 (general) or UofL Adult & Transfer 502‑852‑0166. (evolve502.org, louisville.edu)
- Eastern Kentucky (EKU/Richmond; HCTC/Hazard)
- EKU CCAMPIS/SCCAP: 859‑622‑1000 (main), see CCAMPIS site for contact. HCTC CCAMPIS: 606‑487‑3426. (ccampis.eku.edu, hazard.kctcs.edu)
- Bluegrass/Lexington region
- KCC‑Bluegrass main line 859‑267‑2223 (also covers Danville/Lexington/Richmond offices). (ckycareers.com)
Timelines and deadlines (keep this handy)
| Item | Date/Window | Where to act |
|---|---|---|
| FAFSA 2025–26 final deadline | June 30, 2026 | Studentaid.gov (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| CAP/KTG/WRKS priority | As early as possible; first‑come | FAFSA + MyKHEAA (kheaa.com) |
| KYNG State Tuition (Guard) | Apply by Apr 1 (Fall) / Oct 1 (Spring) | KYNG Tuition portal; questions 502‑607‑1039 (studentsuccess.uky.edu) |
| KCTCS 2025–26 tuition | 195/credit+195/credit + 8/credit fee (online adds $20) | Your KCTCS college site (kctcs.edu) |
Tables you can use to plan
A) Core grants and typical caps
| Grant | 2025–26 Max | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pell | 7,395(min7,395 (min 740) | SAI‑based; year‑round Pell up to 150%. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| FSEOG | $4,000 (typical campus awards vary) | Limited campus funds; Pell priority. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| CAP (KHEAA) | 2,500(2‑yr)/2,500 (2‑yr) / 5,300 (4‑yr) | First‑come; verify in MyKHEAA. (kheaa.com) |
| KTG (KHEAA) | $3,300 (2024–25 listed) | Private colleges; verify annual max. (kheaa.com) |
| WRKS (KHEAA) | Up to KCTCS tuition + $400 fees/yr | Last‑dollar; approved fields only. (kheaa.com) |
| TEACH | $3,772 | Service requirement; can convert to loan. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
B) KCTCS tuition math (2025–26)
| Load | Tuition (195/credit) | Mandatory Fee (8/credit) | Est. In‑Person Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 credits | $1,170 | $48 | $1,218 |
| 9 credits | $1,755 | $72 | $1,827 |
| 12 credits | $2,340 | $96 | $2,436 |
Online adds $20/credit distance fee. (kctcs.edu)
C) Childcare and income support touchpoints
| Program | How it helps | Where to apply | Key number |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCAP | Subsidizes licensed care so you can attend classes/work | DCBS 855‑306‑8959 or kynect | ≤85% SMI; co‑pays per 922 KAR 2:160. (chfs.ky.gov, apps.legislature.ky.gov) |
| KTAP | Monthly cash to stabilize basics while in school/work | DCBS 855‑306‑8959 or kynect | Family of 3 max $524/mo. (apps.legislature.ky.gov) |
| RTW (KCTCS) | Paid work‑study; transport/daycare help | Campus RTW office | Local contacts vary; see KCTCS site. (kctcs.edu) |
D) Single‑parent SNAP student exemptions (quick view)
| Scenario | Exemption |
|---|---|
| Single parent, full‑time, child under 12 | Eligible student exemption |
| Child under 6 (or 6–11 with no adequate child care) | Eligible exemption |
| State/federal work‑study participant | Eligible exemption |
Source: USDA SNAP Students. (fns.usda.gov)
E) Emergency funds (examples)
| Campus | Typical cap | Where to contact |
|---|---|---|
| EKU SAFE | ~$300 | Dean of Students; online application. (retentiongraduation.eku.edu) |
| UofL (Dean of Students) | Varies by case | 502‑852‑5787; online application. (student.louisville.edu) |
| UofL Graduate | ~$500 | Graduate School emergency grant form. (louisville.edu) |
10 Kentucky‑specific FAQs
- What’s the maximum Pell Grant for 2025–26?
- Up to 7,395∗∗;minimum∗∗7,395**; minimum **740. Awards are SAI‑based and can be used year‑round. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- When is the last day to file FAFSA for 2025–26?
- June 30, 2026 (but file much earlier—state aid is first‑come and may run out). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- How much is CAP right now?
- Up to 2,500∗∗at2‑yearcollegesand∗∗2,500** at 2‑year colleges and **5,300 at 4‑year colleges, first‑come by FAFSA date (regulated aggregate limits in 11 KAR 5:145). (kheaa.com, apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- What does Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship cover?
- It’s last‑dollar up to KCTCS in‑state tuition (plus up to $400 in fees per year) after Pell/CAP/other grants, for approved high‑demand programs. (kheaa.com)
- What are KCTCS tuition rates for 2025–26?
- 195/credit∗∗tuition+∗∗195/credit** tuition + **8/credit mandatory fee; online adds $20/credit. (kctcs.edu)
- I’m in college full‑time and a single parent. Can I get SNAP?
- Yes, if you meet the student exemption (single parent, child under 12) and other SNAP rules. Apply via DCBS. (fns.usda.gov)
- What if I attend a private college in Kentucky?
- Check KTG (last posted max $3,300 for 2024–25) plus Pell/CAP. Verify 2025–26 with KHEAA or your aid office. (kheaa.com)
- How do I find a Kentucky Career Center and phone number?
- Use the statewide KCC Locations tool; search by county for address and phone. (kcc.ky.gov)
- Is there help with child care while I’m in school?
- Yes: CCAP (≤85% SMI), campus CCAMPIS (if available), and RTW/KTAP supports. Apply early. (chfs.ky.gov, ccampis.eku.edu)
- I served (or serve) in the Kentucky National Guard—tuition help?
- KYNG State Tuition covers 100% of in‑state public tuition (fall/spring; apply by Apr 1/Oct 1). Call 502‑607‑1039. (studentsuccess.uky.edu)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (one‑page summary)
| Do this | Link/Phone |
|---|---|
| File FAFSA for 2025–26 | Studentaid.gov • 1‑800‑433‑3243 (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| Create MyKHEAA account (CAP/KTG/WRKS) | KHEAA – MyKHEAA (kheaa.com) |
| Apply for CCAP child care | DCBS 855‑306‑8959 (free interpreter 866‑291‑8931) (chfs.ky.gov) |
| Ask about RTW (TANF work‑study) | KCTCS Ready to Work (kctcs.edu) |
| Find your Kentucky Career Center | KCC Locations (kcc.ky.gov) |
| 24/7 referrals | Dial 211 or Kentucky 211 (kentucky211.org) |
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
- This guide uses official sources from KHEAA, KCTCS, CHFS (DCBS/DCC), USDA/FNS, and Federal Student Aid.
- We follow our Editorial Standards: official sources, direct application links, and prompt corrections.
- Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. If you spot a change, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify within 48 hours.
Disclaimer
- Program amounts, income limits, and deadlines change. Always confirm with the agency or your college’s financial aid office before making decisions. We link to official pages and hotlines throughout this guide.
- Site security note: For your privacy, never email full SSNs or tax documents to us or to agencies unless you’re using their secure portals. Use official .gov and .edu sites linked here.
Sources (selected)
- Federal Pell Grant maximum/minimum (2025–26): U.S. Dept. of Education Dear Colleague Letter; FAFSA deadlines for 2025–26: Federal Student Aid Handbook. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- KHEAA CAP/KTG/WRKS details and amounts; CAP regulatory limits (11 KAR 5:145). (kheaa.com, apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- KCTCS 2025–26 tuition/fees. (kctcs.edu)
- FSEOG maximum/award rules; TEACH Grant sequestration (FY26). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- CCAP application/eligibility; 85% SMI rule in 922 KAR 2:160. (chfs.ky.gov, apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- KTAP benefit and income limits (921 KAR 2:016). (apps.legislature.ky.gov)
- SNAP student exemptions (single‑parent rule). (fns.usda.gov)
- CCAMPIS campus examples (EKU; HCTC). (ccampis.eku.edu, hazard.kctcs.edu)
- Evolve502 scholarship and UofL 2+2 path. (evolve502.org, louisville.edu)
- Kentucky Career Center locations; “Approved Training” extra UI weeks page. (kcc.ky.gov)
If you want, tell me your county, your program (major/certificate), and any kids’ ages. I’ll map out a personalized stacking plan (Pell + CAP + WRKS + childcare + local help) and give you exact phone numbers for your nearest offices.
🏛️More Kentucky Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Kentucky
- 📋 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
