Education Grants for Single Mothers in Louisiana
Louisiana Education Grants for Single Mothers: The 2025 No‑Fluff Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, scan‑friendly hub for Louisiana single moms who need real, immediate help paying for school or training. It puts the exact dollar amounts, eligibility rules, links, phone numbers, and timelines in one place, with Plan B options when something doesn’t work.
Jump to Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
Quick help box
- Complete the FAFSA first — it unlocks Pell, FSEOG, GO Grant, and school aid. Federal FAFSA deadline for 2025–26 is June 30, 2026. File ASAP to get limited state funds. Start at FAFSA on StudentAid.gov. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- If you’re 19+ and training for a high‑demand career at a community/technical college, apply for the M.J. Foster Promise (up to 3,200/year∗∗,max∗∗3,200/year**, max **6,400) at LOSFA’s M.J. Foster page. Applications for 2025–26 opened June 1, 2025. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Already Pell‑eligible and still short? Ask your college about the Louisiana GO Grant (up to $3,000/year). Awarded by your school after Pell. Details: GO Grant at LOSFA. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Need child care while you study? Apply for Louisiana’s CCAP. Monthly income limit examples (gross): 2‑person 4,187∗∗,3‑person∗∗4,187**, 3‑person **5,173, 4‑person $6,158. Call 1‑877‑453‑2721 or see the CCAP application. Note: a waitlist may apply. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Former foster youth? Chafee ETV pays up to $5,000/year through LOSFA. See Chafee ETV. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Looking for short‑term training support, tools, or fees? If you get SNAP, ask about SNAP E&T supportive services (transportation, books, supplies) via DCFS. Start at SNAP E&T. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Have a disability? Louisiana Rehabilitation Services may help with tuition, books, equipment, and job placement. Baton Rouge regional office: (225) 295‑8900. Full statewide list: LRS Regional Offices. (www2.laworks.net)
At‑a‑glance: major grants and what they pay (2025–26)
| Program | Max annual $ | Who it helps | Key eligibility | Where to apply / learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant (2025–26) | 7,395∗∗max;min∗∗7,395** max; min **740 | Undergrads with financial need | FAFSA required; amount based on Student Aid Index and family size | Pell amounts (GEN‑25‑02). (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| FSEOG | Up to $4,000 | Undergrads with exceptional need (usually Pell recipients) | Campus‑based; limited funds, awarded by school | FSEOG rules. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| TEACH Grant | Scheduled 4,000∗∗;actualmaxpaid∗∗4,000**; actual max paid **3,772 (FY26 sequester) | Students preparing to teach in high‑need fields at low‑income schools | Service obligation; FAFSA; sequestration applies Oct 1, 2025–Sep 30, 2026 | TEACH amounts. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| Louisiana GO Grant | Up to $3,000 | Pell recipients with remaining need | FAFSA + Pell; at least half‑time; awarded by school | GO Grant at LOSFA. (mylosfa.la.gov) |
| M.J. Foster Promise | 3,200/year∗∗FT;lifetime∗∗3,200/year** FT; lifetime **6,400 (can be used in one year for certain high‑cost programs) | Adults 19+ in high‑demand, short‑term programs at public 2‑year colleges/approved schools | FAFSA required for Title IV programs; can’t stack with TOPS | M.J. Foster at LOSFA and 2025 news. (mylosfa.la.gov) |
| TOPS Tech | Varies by school; pays set “TOPS Tech” amount toward approved technical programs | Mostly new HS grads entering technical/associate programs | LA residency, core curriculum, ACT; time limits apply | TOPS Tech. (mylosfa.la.gov) |
| Chafee ETV (Foster youth) | Up to $5,000/year | Current/former foster youth up to age 26 | FAFSA; LA residency; in eligible postsecondary | Chafee at LOSFA. (mylosfa.la.gov) |
| LA National Guard Patriot Scholarship (fees) + STEP (tuition) | STEP covers in‑state public tuition; Patriot covers mandatory fees (up to 12 semesters) | Guard members in good standing | Must be STEP‑eligible; public institutions | Patriot Scholarship and STEP. (mylosfa.la.gov, geauxguard.la.gov) |
Notes:
- Schools also offer their own “promise” or “pledge” aid for Pell‑eligible students. Examples: LSU Pelican Promise (need‑based), UNO Privateer Pledge (covers unmet need for up to 4 years), Tulane Louisiana Promise (no‑loan for LA families under $100,000 AGI). Check your campus aid site for details. (lsu.edu, uno.edu, admission.tulane.edu)
What top search results miss (and how this guide fills the gaps)
- Exact 2025–26 dollar amounts and deadlines. Many listicles show old Pell or GO Grant figures; we’ve verified amounts for 2025–26 above and link to official pages. (fsapartners.ed.gov, mylosfa.la.gov)
- Adult‑focused Louisiana grants. The M.J. Foster Promise is a major state aid source for non‑traditional students; it’s often absent from generic “single mom” posts. We include eligibility, award caps, and the 2025 age update (down to 19). (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Practical supports that make school doable. CCAP to cover child care while you’re in class, SNAP E&T for books/transport, and LRS for disability‑related costs are critical—yet rarely compiled in one place with phone numbers. (doe.louisiana.gov, dcfs.louisiana.gov, www2.laworks.net)
First steps that unlock the most money
1) File the FAFSA (don’t skip)
- Why: It’s how you get Pell, FSEOG, GO Grant, and most campus aid. Priority money is limited and often first‑come at colleges. Federal FAFSA deadline for 2025–26 is June 30, 2026. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Where: Start FAFSA. LOSFA’s FAFSA help email: GeauxFAFSA@la.gov; virtual office hours available. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Timeline: Create FSA IDs 1–3 days before you file (SSA match). Online FAFSAs typically process in 1–3 days for schools to load. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Documents: 2023 tax return, SSNs, child support paid/received, untaxed income, your school list.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use LOSFA’s free one‑on‑one help. Email GeauxFAFSA@la.gov or book a virtual session. If you hit account issues, call Federal Student Aid at 1‑800‑433‑3243. (mylosfa.la.gov)
2) Tell your school you’re a parent and ask for need‑based “gap” aid packaging
- Why: Schools package FSEOG, GO Grant, work‑study, and institutional grants together. Many campuses also have “promise/pledge” programs for Pell students (e.g., LSU Pelican Promise, UNO Privateer Pledge). (lsu.edu, uno.edu)
- Ask about: Dependent care cost allowance in your Cost of Attendance (can increase your aid eligibility), emergency grants, book vouchers, and short‑term loans while aid disburses.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call LOSFA’s general line (225‑219‑1012) and ask to speak with a specialist about GO Grant packaging or adult‑learner options. (mylosfa.la.gov)
3) Apply for M.J. Foster Promise if you’re 19+ and training for high‑demand jobs
- Amounts: 3,200/year∗∗(full‑time)uptoalifetime∗∗3,200/year** (full‑time) up to a lifetime **6,400; may be used in one year for certain high‑cost programs. Covers tuition, required fees, and mandatory books/supplies after other grants. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Timing: 2025–26 application opened June 1, 2025. Awards pay on a first‑come, first‑billed basis as funds allow. Text help: (225) 224‑8254. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Fine print: Can’t be combined with TOPS in the same term. FAFSA required for Title IV programs. (mylosfa.la.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your local American Job Center about WIOA training funds and Individual Training Accounts for your program. Use the LWC Service Locator to find your nearest AJC. (www2.laworks.net)
Key Louisiana and federal programs (how to qualify, apply, and what to expect)
Federal Pell Grant (2025–26)
- Amounts: up to 7,395∗∗(minimum∗∗7,395** (minimum **740). Based on FAFSA and Student Aid Index; some students qualify for “Maximum Pell” automatically. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Eligibility: Undergraduates without a prior bachelor’s; citizenship/eligible non‑citizen status; Satisfactory Academic Progress.
- Apply: File FAFSA; list your school.
- Timeline: Schools start packaging after your FAFSA is processed; disbursement typically at start of term.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your income recently dropped, ask the financial aid office for a “special circumstances” review to update your FAFSA data and potentially increase your grant.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
- Amounts: Typically 100–100–4,000 per year; awarded by your college until funds run out. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Eligibility: Exceptional need; usually Pell recipients.
- Apply: File FAFSA early; follow up with your school.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about institutional emergency grants or short‑term book vouchers; then check GO Grant below.
TEACH Grant (teaching majors)
- Amounts: Scheduled 4,000∗∗;actualdisbursedmax∗∗4,000**; actual disbursed max **3,772 for awards first disbursed Oct 1, 2025–Sep 30, 2026 (FY26 sequester). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Eligibility: Agree to teach 4 years in a high‑need field at a low‑income school; otherwise converts to a loan. See program counseling before accepting.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your college of education about state tuition exemptions or district “grow‑your‑own” stipends.
Louisiana GO Grant
- Amounts: 300–300–3,000 per year; varies by school policy and funding. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Eligibility: Louisiana resident; FAFSA; must receive Pell; have unmet need; at least half‑time.
- Apply: FAFSA only; the school awards it.
- Reality check: Summer is not funded; funds are limited. (mylosfa.la.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask whether your campus offers a “promise/pledge” program that fills remaining tuition/fee gaps for Pell students (e.g., LSU Pelican Promise, UNO Privateer Pledge). (lsu.edu, uno.edu)
M.J. Foster Promise (adult learners, workforce programs)
- Amounts: 3,200/year∗∗,lifetime∗∗3,200/year**, lifetime **6,400, last‑dollar after other grants (not loans/work‑study/WIOA). Can be stacked with Pell and GO Grant. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Eligibility: 19+, LA resident, US citizen; HS diploma/HISET or co‑enrollment toward HS credential; no prior associate+ degree; FAFSA (if program is Title IV). Can’t receive TOPS in same term. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Apply: M.J. Foster application; text (225) 224‑8254 with questions. (mylosfa.la.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- WIOA training funds may cover tuition, fees, books, tests, and supportive services. Call an American Job Center near you (see phone list below) and ask about “ITA” funding for your program. (www2.laworks.net)
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for students in school/training
- What it covers: Subsidized child care while you work or attend school/training (including 20+ hours/week school or combined work/school). (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Monthly gross income limits (examples, 2025): 2‑person 4,187∗∗;3‑person∗∗4,187**; 3‑person **5,173; 4‑person 6,158∗∗;5‑person∗∗6,158**; 5‑person **7,143. Call 1‑877‑453‑2721 to apply or ask questions. Note: Louisiana has had a CCAP waitlist since Oct 1, 2022; eligible families are placed as funds open. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Apply: CCAP portal (online/paper). (doe.louisiana.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your college about campus child care, sliding‑scale centers, or part‑time class blocks. If you receive SNAP, ask SNAP E&T providers about help with dependent care or transportation while in an E&T activity. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) supportive services
- What you can get: Reimbursements for transportation, dependent care, tools, books, uniforms, testing fees, and other costs directly related to training/education. Amounts vary by provider and program. (dcfs.louisiana.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- Apply: If you get SNAP, ask your DCFS caseworker about E&T; or contact an E&T provider (e.g., Goodwill Southeastern LA’s Opportunity Centers in New Orleans 504‑456‑3925 and Baton Rouge 225‑308‑0220). (goodwillno.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Check WIOA (American Job Centers) for similar supports, and ask your campus about emergency funds.
Chafee Education & Training Voucher (ETV) — former/current foster youth
- Amounts: Up to $5,000/year for undergrad/grad; renewable to age 26 with Satisfactory Academic Progress. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Apply/learn: Chafee ETV at LOSFA.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your school’s Trio/Educational Opportunity Center or Foster Care Liaison about campus‑based supports and housing grants for former foster youth. (mylosfa.la.gov)
Louisiana National Guard (for veteran/Guard moms)
- STEP: Covers tuition at public institutions for Guard members. Patriot Scholarship: Covers mandatory fees (both up to 12 semesters), so together they can “tuition + mandatory fees” at public schools. Contact LANG Education Services: (504) 278‑8273 (desk) or (504) 224‑0076 (cell). (geauxguard.la.gov)
- Learn more: Patriot Scholarship. (mylosfa.la.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re a veteran, ask your campus VA rep about the Post‑9/11 GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon; combine with Pell/GO Grant where applicable.
FAFSA and key dates (2025–26)
| Item | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| FAFSA open (full access) | December 2024 | Schools process once your FAFSA is submitted and matched; apply early for limited funds. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| Louisiana recommended FAFSA window | As early as possible; many schools encourage Feb–Mar priority (e.g., UL Lafayette suggests by March 1) | Always check your college’s priority deadline; filing later can delay awards. (louisiana.edu) |
| Federal FAFSA deadline | June 30, 2026 | Last day to submit 2025–26 FAFSA. Corrections are typically due Sept 2026. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| M.J. Foster 2025–26 | Opens June 1, 2025 | Age minimum lowered to 19 starting 2025–26. (mylosfa.la.gov) |
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) income limits (2025)
Monthly gross income limits by household size (selected sizes):
| Household size | Max monthly gross income |
|---|---|
| 2 | $4,187 |
| 3 | $5,173 |
| 4 | $6,158 |
| 5 | $7,143 |
Apply or ask questions: 1‑877‑453‑2721, or visit the Louisiana Department of Education CCAP page. Note: a CCAP waitlist exists; families are served as funds allow. (doe.louisiana.gov)
How to combine aid (real‑world scenarios)
- Example A: Community college nursing pathway (Baton Rouge). You file FAFSA and qualify for Pell 7,395∗∗.Yourschooladds∗∗FSEOG7,395**. Your school adds **FSEOG 800 and GO Grant 1,200∗∗.Tuition/fees/booksstillshortby∗∗1,200**. Tuition/fees/books still short by **1,500 — your advisor helps you add M.J. Foster $1,600/term and SNAP E&T reimburses for scrubs and bus passes. You also get CCAP so your toddler has care during labs. This “braiding” is common and doable when you ask each office to coordinate. (fsapartners.ed.gov, mylosfa.la.gov, dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Example B: Short‑term CDL training (Lafayette). You apply to M.J. Foster for $3,200/year and ask the Lafayette American Job Center (337‑262‑5601) about WIOA funds for tuition/testing and fuel reimbursement. If you receive SNAP, you ask an E&T provider about paid exam fees and boots. You include child care in CCAP. (mylosfa.la.gov, chamberofcommerce.com, dcfs.louisiana.gov)
Where to apply and who to call (don’t chase numbers)
| Need | How to apply | Phone | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| FAFSA (Pell, FSEOG, GO Grant, campus aid) | studentaid.gov | Federal Student Aid 1‑800‑433‑3243 | LOSFA FAFSA help: GeauxFAFSA@la.gov. (mylosfa.la.gov) |
| M.J. Foster Promise | M.J. Foster at LOSFA | Text (225) 224‑8254 | 2025–26 apps opened June 1, 2025. (mylosfa.la.gov) |
| GO Grant | FAFSA; awarded by your college | Your college FA office | Max $3,000; funds limited. (mylosfa.la.gov) |
| CCAP child care | Apply online | 1‑877‑453‑2721 | Student/trainee parents eligible; waitlist may apply. (doe.louisiana.gov) |
| SNAP E&T supports | Through DCFS or an E&T provider | DCFS LAHelpU 1‑888‑524‑3578 | Reimbursements for transit, books, etc. (dcfs.louisiana.gov) |
| Louisiana Rehabilitation Services (disability) | Contact regional LRS office | State office 1‑800‑737‑2958 | May fund tuition, books, equipment tied to employment. (www2.laworks.net) |
| Guard tuition/fees (STEP + Patriot) | Through your public college & LANG | LANG Ed. Svcs (504) 278‑8273 | STEP tuition + Patriot mandatory fees. (geauxguard.la.gov) |
American Job Centers (WIOA) — get training funds and local help
Use the LWC Service Locator to find your nearest AJC. Here are several frequently used locations if you want to call first:
- Baton Rouge South AJC, 1991 Wooddale Blvd — (225) 925‑4312. (waze.com)
- Baton Rouge North AJC, 4523 Plank Rd — (225) 358‑4579. (legalconsumer.com)
- Lafayette AJC, 706 E Vermilion St — (337) 262‑5601. (mapquest.com)
- Jefferson Parish (Metairie) AJC, 1801 Airline Dr, Suite F — (504) 838‑5678. Westbank (Avondale) — (504) 227‑1283. (jeffparish.gov)
- Shreveport (Caddo) AJC, 2121 Fairfield Ave — (318) 676‑7788. (legalconsumer.com)
School‑friendly Louisiana options for adult learners
- Compete LA (University of Louisiana System): Flat $275/credit hour for eligible returning adults; free coaching; some fees waived. See Compete LA. (competela.org, louisiana.edu)
- WorkReady U (LCTCS adult education): Free classes for HiSET/ESL/college prep; scholarships to offset HiSET fees; “Next Steps” scholarships (250–250–500/term) for WRU grads who enroll in an LCTCS college. Start at WorkReady U. (lctcs.edu, ladelta.edu)
- HiSET costs in Louisiana: In‑person subtests 21∗∗each(firstsubtest∗∗21** each (first subtest **31, includes the annual state fee), total expected 115∗∗forthefullbatteryinacalendaryear;at‑home∗∗115** for the full battery in a calendar year; at‑home **32.50 per subtest, total $172.50. WRU providers can help with vouchers. (hiset.org)
Local organizations and nonprofits that actually help
- Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Louisiana (workforce training; SNAP E&T provider): New Orleans (504) 456‑3925, Baton Rouge (225) 308‑0220. Ask about training scholarships, supportive services, and job placement. (goodwillno.org)
- Urban League of Louisiana — Women’s Business Resource Center (New Orleans office (504) 620‑9647; Baton Rouge (225) 831‑1501): entrepreneurship training, coaching, access to capital — useful if your education goal is tied to starting a business. (neworleanschamber.org, recast.communityplatform.us)
- Community foundations with scholarship portals: Baton Rouge Area Foundation (BRAF Scholarships), Greater New Orleans Foundation scholarships (current opportunities), and Community Foundation of North Louisiana (CFNLA Scholarships). Awards vary by donor and year. (brafscholarships.org, gnof.org, cfnla.org)
Diverse communities: targeted tips and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Most Louisiana public colleges have identity centers and Title IX offices that can help with campus climate issues and name/record changes; always ask your campus Dean of Students about support groups and emergency funds. School‑based aid still requires the FAFSA; SAI is based on tax filing and household size (single‑parent status considered in Pell eligibility rules). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or moms of children with disabilities
- Contact Louisiana Rehabilitation Services to see if tuition, books, adaptive tech, transportation, or testing accommodations can be funded as part of your employment plan. State office 1‑800‑737‑2958; regional office list linked above. (www2.laworks.net)
- Veteran single mothers & Guard
- Combine VA education benefits with Louisiana STEP (tuition) and Patriot Scholarship (mandatory fees). LANG Education Services: (504) 278‑8273. (geauxguard.la.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms
- WorkReady U offers free ESL and college‑prep statewide; FAFSA eligibility depends on citizenship/eligible non‑citizen status (DHS‑verified). CCAP materials and outreach are available in Spanish; contact 1‑877‑453‑2721 for language assistance. (lctcs.edu, doe.louisiana.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources
- Federally recognized tribes in Louisiana (e.g., Tunica‑Biloxi, Jena Band of Choctaw, Chitimacha) offer higher‑ed assistance to enrolled members. Contact your tribal education office (Tunica‑Biloxi Education (318) 240‑6466; Jena Band of Choctaw Education (318) 992‑0136). UL Lafayette also offers a $5,000 American Indian Scholarship for eligible incoming freshmen. (tunicabiloxi.org, jenachoctaw.org, louisiana.edu)
- Rural single moms with limited access
- Use Compete LA’s online pathways ($275/credit) and ask your AJC about remote WIOA training. WRU provides online/Hybrid HiSET and skills classes. (competela.org, lctcs.edu)
- Single fathers
- All federal/state programs listed here are gender‑neutral. If you’re the custodial parent, the same rules and phone numbers apply.
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- FAFSA first. Federal deadline June 30, 2026; file early. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Pell max 7,395∗∗(2025–26).FSEOGupto∗∗7,395** (2025–26). FSEOG up to **4,000. TEACH pays up to $3,772 this year due to sequestration. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Louisiana GO Grant up to $3,000 (Pell‑eligible only). (mylosfa.la.gov)
- M.J. Foster Promise: 3,200/year∗∗,lifetime∗∗3,200/year**, lifetime **6,400 for adults 19+ in high‑demand programs; opened June 1, 2025. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Child care help while you study: CCAP (e.g., 3‑person limit $5,173/mo). Apply and ask about the waitlist. 1‑877‑453‑2721. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Need tools, fees, bus fare? Ask SNAP E&T or your AJC about reimbursements/supports. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
Application checklist (gather this before you apply)
- Your 2023 federal tax return (and W‑2s/1099s); if you didn’t file, have income documentation ready.
- Social Security numbers (you and your child, if needed), driver’s license/ID.
- Proof of Louisiana residency (lease, utility, LA ID).
- Proof of child support paid/received, public benefits (SNAP, FITAP), and untaxed income.
- Class schedule or program acceptance (for M.J. Foster, WIOA, LRS).
- Child’s birth certificate and immunization record (for CCAP), proof of work/school/training hours.
- For Chafee ETV: proof of foster care status and FAFSA confirmation. (mylosfa.la.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to file the FAFSA. You can file early even if you’re undecided on a school; you can add schools later.
- Not telling your aid office you’re a parent. Ask them to add dependent care costs to your Cost of Attendance (this can increase grant eligibility).
- Skipping M.J. Foster because you “already have Pell.” M.J. Foster is last‑dollar after other grants and often closes your remaining gap in high‑demand programs. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Missing CCAP because you think school doesn’t count. CCAP is available to parents in school/training; apply and report changes quickly. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- Ignoring SNAP E&T. If you get SNAP, you may be leaving money on the table for transportation, supplies, and fees. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
Realistic timelines
- FAFSA processing: 1–3 days online after FSA IDs verify (SSA match). Schools package aid soon after. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- GO Grant/FSEOG: Awarded as schools package aid; limited pools — earlier is better. (mylosfa.la.gov, fsapartners.ed.gov)
- M.J. Foster: Processed as schools bill LOSFA; priority to continuing students each term as funds allow. Plan ahead and check with your college’s financial aid office before registration. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- CCAP: Expect several weeks for eligibility; waitlist may add time. Apply as soon as you enroll. (doe.louisiana.gov)
Program specifics tables
Louisiana school‑based “promise/pledge” examples
| Campus program | Who it’s for | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| LSU Pelican Promise | Need‑based LSU students meeting SAI/FAFSA criteria | Gap funding; retention requires 2.0 GPA and SAP. (lsu.edu) |
| UNO Privateer Pledge | Covers unmet need for 4 years (FT enroll) | Doesn’t cover housing/meals/books; maintain SAP. (uno.edu) |
| Tulane Louisiana Promise (NOLA) | LA freshmen; AGI under $100,000; no‑loan aid | Meets institutionally calculated need without loans. (admission.tulane.edu) |
Adult education and HiSET costs/supports
| Item | Amount/Note |
|---|---|
| HiSET (in‑person) | 21∗∗persubtest(firstsubtest∗∗21** per subtest (first subtest **31 including state fee); total expected $115/calendar year if no retakes. (hiset.org) |
| HiSET (at‑home) | 32.50∗∗persubtest;total∗∗32.50** per subtest; total **172.50/calendar year if no retakes. (hiset.org) |
| WRU “Next Steps” scholarships | 250∗∗(6–11credits)/∗∗250** (6–11 credits) / **500 (12+ credits) per term for WRU grads at LCTCS colleges. (ladelta.edu) |
| Compete LA | Flat $275/credit hour for eligible returning adults at UL System schools. (competela.org) |
WIOA/American Job Center contact snapshot
| City | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Baton Rouge (South) | 1991 Wooddale Blvd | (225) 925‑4312 (waze.com) |
| Baton Rouge (North) | 4523 Plank Rd | (225) 358‑4579 (legalconsumer.com) |
| Lafayette | 706 E Vermilion St | (337) 262‑5601 (mapquest.com) |
| Metairie | 1801 Airline Dr, Suite F | (504) 838‑5678 (jeffparish.gov) |
| Avondale | 709 Churchill Pkwy | (504) 227‑1283 (jeffparish.gov) |
| Shreveport | 2121 Fairfield Ave | (318) 676‑7788 (legalconsumer.com) |
What to do if you’re denied or the money runs out
- Ask for a professional judgment review if your income fell (job loss, reduced hours, childcare changes). Provide documents (termination letter, new paystubs, childcare invoices).
- Re‑evaluate program choice: Some high‑demand programs are fully covered by a combination of Pell + M.J. Foster + GO Grant. Your AJC can show cost‑effective approved training on the Eligible Training Provider List.
- Don’t forget Chafee (foster youth), LRS (disability), and campus emergency funds. These often fill last gaps when regular aid is exhausted. (mylosfa.la.gov, www2.laworks.net)
10 Louisiana‑specific FAQs
- What’s the Pell Grant maximum for 2025–26?
- 7,395∗∗maximum;federalminimum∗∗7,395** maximum; federal minimum **740. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Can I get GO Grant without Pell?
- No. GO Grant requires you to receive Pell and still have unmet need. Max $3,000. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- I’m 29 and starting a short‑term healthcare program. Can I use M.J. Foster and Pell together?
- Yes, M.J. Foster is last‑dollar after other grants (not loans/work‑study/WIOA) and can stack with Pell/GO Grant. Up to 3,200/year∗∗,lifetime∗∗3,200/year**, lifetime **6,400. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- Does CCAP cover school/training hours?
- Yes. Parents studying at least 20 hours/week, full‑time students, or those combining work and school may qualify. Apply; note waitlist status. (doe.louisiana.gov)
- My program needs tools/uniforms I can’t afford. Any help?
- If you receive SNAP, ask about SNAP E&T reimbursements for required supplies and transportation. Or ask your AJC about WIOA supportive services. (dcfs.louisiana.gov)
- Are there grants for former foster youth?
- Yes, Chafee ETV up to $5,000/year through LOSFA. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- I’m in the Louisiana National Guard. Can my tuition and fees be covered?
- Yes. STEP covers tuition at public institutions; Patriot Scholarship covers mandatory fees (up to 12 semesters). Contact LANG Education Services ((504) 278‑8273). (geauxguard.la.gov)
- Do I need to file FAFSA every year?
- Yes. Filing yearly keeps Pell/GO Grant and most aid active. (mylosfa.la.gov)
- I have a disability. Can the state help pay for school?
- Possibly. LRS funds services tied to an employment plan, which may include tuition, books, equipment, and transportation. Call 1‑800‑737‑2958. (www2.laworks.net)
- Where can I get live help completing applications locally?
- Call your nearest American Job Center (see phone list above), your college financial aid office, or LOSFA’s FAFSA help: GeauxFAFSA@la.gov. (www2.laworks.net, mylosfa.la.gov)
What to include when you contact offices (saves time)
- Student ID (if admitted), full name, and best callback number.
- Your program/major and start term.
- Proof you filed FAFSA (confirmation page) and any award notices.
- For M.J. Foster/WIOA/LRS: class schedule or acceptance, itemized costs (tuition, fees, books, supplies), and documentation of need (e.g., SNAP case, unemployment, pay stubs).
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance (LOSFA), Louisiana Department of Education/Child Care Assistance, Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services, U.S. Department of Education Federal Student Aid, and established nonprofits. It 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.
Our research standards include: primary sources (official .gov and LOSFA), cross‑verification, link testing, and change tracking aligned with our Editorial Policy’s E‑E‑A‑T and YMYL requirements. This editorial standards page was last updated August 2025. (mylosfa.la.gov)
Disclaimer
Program rules, amounts, and deadlines change. Always verify with the relevant agency or your college financial aid office before making decisions. We provide links to official sources and phone numbers to minimize errors.
Security note: For your privacy, never email full Social Security numbers or bank details to agencies; use official portals (FAFSA, LOSFA, DCFS CAFÉ) and secure upload tools linked on the agency websites. Keep your devices updated and use strong, unique passwords for FAFSA and school accounts.
— End of guide —
🏛️More Louisiana Resources for Single Mothers
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