Last Updated on September 22, 2025 by Rachel

Montana Education Grants for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide focuses on real, pay‑for‑school money and the supports that keep you in class: grants, tuition waivers, campus child care, and training funds available in Montana. Every number and rule below comes from official sources and is dated.

Before you start: filing the FAFSA unlocks most grants. If you haven’t filed yet, make that your first move. Details and links are below.

Quick Help Box

• File the FAFSA now to unlock Pell, FSEOG, and campus grants: use the official FAFSA at the U.S. Department of Education’s site. For 2025–26, the maximum Pell Grant is $7,395. Filing is free. See the Department’s 2025–26 Pell figures and handbook notes. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• Apply for Montana’s Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship if you’ll be in classes or training and need child care. Single-parent households must generally work at least 60 hours per month unless enrolled full‑time. Income limit is 185% FPL. Apply online or through your local Child Care Resource & Referral agency. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Ask your campus aid office about institutional grants and waivers. Examples: UM’s Grizzly Promise (covers tuition for Montana households at or under $50,000 income), UM Need Grant, and CCAMPIS child care help at MSU Bozeman. (umt.edu, montana.edu)
• Check Montana’s National Guard, American Indian Tuition Waiver, 2+2 Honor Scholarship, STEM/Healthcare Scholarship, and Gianforte Trade & Technology scholarships. These can cover tuition or add $500–$2,000 per term depending on the program. (mus.edu, mus.edu, applymontana.mus.edu)
• If you’re a former foster youth, apply for Education & Training Vouchers (ETV) for up to $5,000/year. Priority deadlines: December 15 (spring/summer) and July 1 (fall). (reachhighermontana.org)
• Need a human to guide you to nearby help (child care, rent, food, legal)? Call 2‑1‑1 or visit Montana 211 for live navigation to services in your county. (montana211.org)

What’s different about this guide

• Every amount and rule is linked to an official Montana or federal source and time‑stamped for 2025.
• It includes program quirks that matter to busy student‑parents (hour requirements, co‑pays, campus deadlines, and real timelines).
• It adds child care, training, and tuition waivers that most “single mom” lists miss (CCAMPIS, National Guard Waiver, American Indian Tuition Waiver, WIOA supports).

Start Here: Your fastest path to education money

Step 1: File the FAFSA (even if you think you won’t qualify)

• Why it matters: The FAFSA is how you’re considered for Pell Grants, FSEOG, work‑study, and many campus/state awards. The Pell maximum for 2025–26 is $7,395\ast \ast ;thestatutoryminimumPellis\ast \ast$740. “Year‑round Pell” can add summer dollars if you enroll half‑time or more. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• How Pell is calculated now: Schools use your Student Aid Index (SAI), family size, and federal poverty guidelines per the FAFSA Simplification rules. You can still qualify part‑time (the award scales). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• What to expect:
  • Aid letters list grants (no payback), work‑study (you earn wages), and loans (optional). FSEOG is “campus‑based” and limited. File early each year. (studentaid.gov)
• If you plan to teach: TEACH Grants can pay up to $4,000/year\ast \ast ,butsequestrationreducesfirstdisbursementsbetween10/1/2025and9/30/2026to\ast \ast$3,772 maximum. Service commitment required or it converts to a loan. (fsapartners.ed.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t access the FAFSA portal, call your campus aid office for help filling it out by phone or in person. You can also contact Federal Student Aid for guidance and use their estimator tools to see likely Pell eligibility. (studentaid.gov)

The Big Federal Grants (Montana students use these every day)

• Federal Pell Grant: Up to $7,395 for 2025–26; prorated for less‑than‑full‑time; “Year‑round Pell” can fund summer. Lifetime cap is 600% (about six full‑time years). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): Up to $4,000/year; campus‑administered; funds run out—apply early. (studentaid.gov)
• TEACH Grant (for future teachers): Up to $3,772 (sequester‑adjusted for FY26); sign the Agreement to Serve; know the conversion risk to a loan if the service requirement isn’t met. (fsapartners.ed.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your aid offer still comes up short, ask your aid office about emergency grants, professional judgment (FAFSA updates for recent income loss, child care costs, or separation/divorce), and payment plans. Use Montana 211 to find local rent, utility, and child care help to stabilize your budget while you finish applications. (montana211.org)

Montana State and Campus Grants, Scholarships, and Tuition Waivers

Start with these because they stack well with Pell and can erase tuition balances.

• Montana Access Scholarship (MUS): For Pell‑eligible Montana residents; $500 per semester; awarded first to lowest SAI. Part‑time eligibility for certain certificate/2‑year students age 25+. Check your campus foundation—awards are made until funds run out. (mus.edu)
• Gianforte Trade & Technology Scholarship (statewide, technical programs): $1,500/termfull‑time\ast \ast or\ast \ast$750/term part‑time. Application deadlines typically Sept 1 (fall) and Feb 1 (spring). Must be a Montana resident with FAFSA on file and unmet need. (applymontana.mus.edu)
• MUS Honor Scholarship (tuition waiver, average value about $5,000/year): Geared to recent HS graduates; if you’re a newly graduated single mom, mark the Dec 1, 2025 app opening and Mar 15, 2026 deadline. (mus.edu)
• 2+2 Honor Scholarship (tuition waiver after your associate degree): Waives undergraduate tuition for up to four continuous semesters at a 4‑year MUS campus. Requires 3.4 GPA and at least 30 credits completed per year. Apply the June after you graduate with the associate. (mus.edu)
• STEM/Healthcare Scholarship: $1,000year1;$1,500 year 2; $1,500year3;$2,000 year 4 for eligible majors. Next cycle opens Dec 1, 2025; deadline Mar 15, 2026. HS GPA 3.25+; full‑time enrollment; must enroll the fall after HS graduation. (mus.edu)
• UM Grizzly Promise (University of Montana): If your family income is $50,000 or less, UM pledges to cover tuition and mandatory fees using a mix of grants/waivers for up to four years (on‑campus students, 12+ credits). Contact UM Financial Aid at 406‑243‑5373. (umt.edu)
• UM Need Grant (University of Montana): Need‑based grant for Montana residents enrolled full‑time; can’t be combined with a full tuition waiver; not available in summer. File the FAFSA and ask UM aid about eligibility. (umt.edu)

Tuition Waivers you should know

• American Indian Tuition Waiver (MUS): Waives tuition (not fees) for Montana residents who are either at least one‑quarter degree Indian blood or enrolled in a state‑ or federally‑recognized tribe within Montana, with demonstrated financial need via FAFSA. Note: BOR updated Policy 940.13 on July 10, 2025; a new application applies starting Fall 2026, and current recipients can continue under prior criteria through completion of their degree. Check your campus aid office for the correct form and process. (mus.edu, umt.edu)
• Montana National Guard Tuition Waiver: Last‑dollar waiver up to in‑state tuition for Guard members in good standing (after all other grants/scholarships). Must apply by the end of the third week of the first semester you want to use it. Works for undergrad and graduate; in‑state status granted for waiver purposes even if you don’t meet residency. See the MUS fact sheet and apply through Award Montana. (mus.edu, applymontana.mus.edu, awardmontana.mus.edu)
• War Orphans; Surviving Dependents (Guard, firefighters, peace officers): Tuition waivers for eligible spouses/children, generally last‑dollar and tuition‑only, with deadlines by the 3rd week of the term. Contact your campus aid office or OCHE for details. (umt.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If campus need‑based funds are exhausted, ask about appeal lists, mid‑term reallocations (students who drop free up funds), short‑term emergency grants, or payment plans. Then add private, non‑profit scholarships from Reach Higher Montana (one application covers multiple awards each Jan–Mar) and look at work‑study jobs that fit school schedules. (reachhighermontana.org)

Child Care While You’re in School (and how to afford it)

Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship (statewide)

• Who qualifies: Working families at or below 185% of FPL, plus TANF families and teen parents in HS. Single‑parent households must generally work at least 60 hours/month unless attending school/training full‑time. Award is paid directly to your licensed provider; you make an income‑based co‑pay. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• How to apply: Apply online or via your regional Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency. Two statewide agencies cover all counties—Child Care Resources (Missoula‑based) and Family Connections (Great Falls/Havre). See contacts below. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Current monthly gross income limits (examples):

• Local help to apply or find providers:
  • Child Care Resources (serves western/south‑central MT): 406‑728‑6446; info and eligibility FAQs available; walk‑in help at 2409 Dearborn Ave., Suite L, Missoula. (childcareresources.org)
  • Family Connections (serves north‑central, northeastern, eastern MT): 800‑696‑4503 or 406‑761‑6010; offices in Great Falls and Havre. (familyconnectionsmt.org)
• Good to know: DPHHS updated the sliding fee scale in 2024; use the current co‑pay calculator and eligibility pages when you apply. Tribal families can be dually eligible for Tribal CCDF and state funds—if tribal funds are exhausted, you may still qualify for Best Beginnings. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your CCR&R about Head Start/Early Head Start slots, campus child care waitlists, and short‑term subsidy “bridge” help if you’re starting a term soon. If you lose eligibility mid‑term, talk to your provider and CCR&R immediately about a temporary plan so your child’s spot isn’t lost. (dphhs.mt.gov)

Campus child care and CCAMPIS

• Montana State University (Bozeman) CCAMPIS: Direct child care tuition payments to your licensed provider for eligible Pell recipients. Apply through MSU Off‑Campus Student Life. Phone 406‑994‑2845 (Financial Aid) for FAFSA questions. (montana.edu)
• University of Montana (ASUM Child Care): Multiple centers with student rates (e.g., $50/day for enrolled student parents for certain age groups; see UM for current rates and availability). UM also supports a culturally responsive pilot site for tribally affiliated students. (umt.edu)

Reality check: Campus centers fill up quickly; waitlists are normal. Apply as soon as you’re admitted and keep your Best Beginnings application moving in parallel so you’re not stuck paying full child care out of pocket. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your aid office whether your child care costs can be added to your Cost of Attendance (this can increase grant eligibility and allow more work‑study). Then call 2‑1‑1 to find church‑ or non‑profit‑affiliated sliding‑scale child care near you. (montana211.org)

Training Funds for Short‑Term Certificates and Career Moves

• WIOA Adult/Dislocated Worker/Youth (Job Service Montana): Can fund approved training, books, testing, and supportive services if you qualify (priority for low‑income, public assistance recipients, or basic‑skills‑deficient adults). Connect through your local Job Service office (see locator). (wsd.dli.mt.gov, montanaworks.gov)
• SNAP Employment & Training (in selected counties): If you’re on SNAP and live in a participating county (Flathead, Lincoln, Big Horn, Cascade, Silver Bow, Deer Lodge, Gallatin, Yellowstone, Missoula, Lewis & Clark), E&T can help with training, job search supports, and some education costs. Call the Public Assistance Helpline 1‑888‑706‑1535 to be referred. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Incumbent Worker Training (through your employer): If you’re employed and your Montana employer applies, IWT can reimburse up to $2,500 for full‑time workers’ skills training (employer applies; matching required). This can be a path to promotions and raises. (wsd.dli.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a Job Service career coach about paid apprenticeships near you (earn while you learn) and whether your campus certificate is on Montana’s Eligible Training Provider List (that’s required for WIOA training dollars). (montanaworks.gov)

Support While You Study (cash aid, child care, and health)

• TANF (Montana Pathways): Monthly cash assistance and case‑managed employment/education plan. Payment standards (effective 7/1/2023 and still posted): e.g., $575\ast \ast forafamilyof2and\ast \ast$725 for a family of 3 with little/no income. Education and training can be part of your plan. Apply at apply.mt.gov or call the Public Assistance Helpline 1‑888‑706‑1535. TANF Pathways contractor (Maximus): 844‑680‑4700. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Best Beginnings for TANF recipients: You can receive the child care scholarship while you complete your Family Investment Agreement requirements. Coordinate with your CCR&R. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Plan First (family planning coverage): For ages 19–44 up to 211% FPL (income table updated through March 31, 2025). If eligible, this can free up money in your budget while you’re in school. (dphhs.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your TANF case doesn’t reflect your school schedule, talk to your Pathways case manager about adjusting hours and documenting class/homework time (per federal guidance). If denied or sanctioned, request a fair hearing; meanwhile, maintain attendance records and keep your advisor in the loop. (acf.hhs.gov)

Foster Youth and Former Foster Youth

• Education & Training Voucher (ETV): Up to $5,000/year, up to five years (not necessarily consecutive), while you pursue an eligible program. Priority deadlines: Dec 15 (spring/summer) and July 1 (fall). Managed by Reach Higher Montana under contract with DPHHS. (reachhighermontana.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Reach Higher Montana for one‑on‑one help, and ask your campus about foster youth liaisons and fee waivers. Reach Higher also hosts a summer summit and offers laptops/life‑skills support for youth in care. (reachhighermontana.org)

Tribal‑Specific Resources (beyond Pell)

• American Indian Tuition Waiver: See the waiver section above—this is the main tuition waiver for eligible American Indian undergraduates in Montana. It does not cover fees. Start with FAFSA + campus aid office. (mus.edu)
• Tribal colleges and campus American Indian student services (UM example pages) can connect you to campus aid, emergency funds, and community childcare options. (umt.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you face documentation hurdles (blood quantum or enrollment proof), ask your campus aid office to outline acceptable documents and give you time to obtain them before census day. (umt.edu)

Veteran, Guard, and Military‑Affiliated Parents

• Montana National Guard Tuition Waiver: Last‑dollar up to in‑state tuition; apply by the third week of your first term using the waiver. Works at undergrad/grad levels. (mus.edu)
• War Orphans & Surviving Dependents waivers: Tuition waivers for eligible dependents of Guard members, firefighters, and peace officers; check campus financial aid for forms and deadlines (usually by week 3). (umt.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your campus Veterans Services office to review your benefits mix (VA plus state waivers) and confirm whether Yellow Ribbon is available for non‑resident tuition gaps. (umt.edu)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (save or screenshot)

Key Deadlines Table (mark your calendar)

Best Beginnings: quick income limits (monthly)

TANF Payment Standards (examples)

How to Apply (Montana‑specific steps)

• FAFSA: File online; list your Montana school(s). Your aid office will package Pell/FSEOG/TEACH/campus grants. Then ask about campus‑specific funds like the UM Need Grant and Grizzly Promise. (umt.edu)
• Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship: Apply online and call your CCR&R for document help (pay stubs, school schedule, provider’s license number). Child Care Resources 406‑728‑6446 (western MT) and Family Connections 800‑696‑4503 (central/eastern MT). (dphhs.mt.gov, familyconnectionsmt.org)
• Award Montana (state scholarships/waivers): Use the portal for Gianforte, 2+2 Honor Scholarship, National Guard Tuition Waiver, and others. Watch each program’s deadlines carefully. (awardmontana.mus.edu)
• WIOA/SNAP E&T: Schedule an appointment with your local Job Service center through MontanaWorks and ask about training assistance and supportive services for low‑income parents. For SNAP E&T referral, call the Public Assistance Helpline 1‑888‑706‑1535. (montanaworks.gov, dphhs.mt.gov)

Real‑World Examples

• You take 9 credits at a community college, have a 3‑year‑old, and earn $2,900/month\ast \ast .WithFAFSAonfile,youmayreceiveapartialPellGrant(proratedfor9credits),campusFSEOGifavailable,andBestBeginningstoreducechildcarecostssinceyourincomeisunder\ast \ast 185$3,151). The child care co‑pay is set from the sliding scale; the state pays the rest directly to your licensed provider. (fsapartners.ed.gov, dphhs.mt.gov, childcareresources.org)
• You’re Pell‑eligible and entering a diesel technology program full‑time. Combine Pell with the Gianforte Trade & Technology Scholarship ($1,500/term\ast \ast ),andaskyouremployeraboutIncumbentWorkerTraining(\ast \ast upto$2,500 reimbursement) if you’re working and training to promote. (applymontana.mus.edu, wsd.dli.mt.gov)

Local Organizations and Where to Get Live Help

• Child Care Resource & Referral agencies:
  • Child Care Resources (Missoula): 406‑728‑6446 — Helps with Best Beginnings, provider referrals, and applications. (dphhs.mt.gov)
  • Family Connections (Great Falls/Havre): 800‑696‑4503 / 406‑761‑6010 — Application help, scholarship processing, and referrals across central/eastern MT. (familyconnectionsmt.org)
• Job Service Montana: Use the locator to book an appointment with a workforce case manager who can connect you to WIOA training funds and apprenticeship options. (montanaworks.gov)
• Montana 211: Call 2‑1‑1 for child care leads, emergency help, transportation, legal clinics, and more; website search by county available. (montana211.org)
• Campus student‑parent supports:
  • MSU Bozeman CCAMPIS (child care help for Pell‑eligible parents). (montana.edu)
  • UM ASUM Child Care and culturally responsive learning center for tribally affiliated students. (umt.edu)

Application Checklist (print and check off)

• Photo ID and Social Security numbers (you and dependents, if applicable).
• Most recent federal tax return (FAFSA uses prior‑prior year).
• Class schedule or acceptance letter (for child care scholarship and WIOA).
• Proof of income (last 30 days of pay stubs; TANF/SNAP notice if you receive benefits).
• Child care provider’s license number (for Best Beginnings/CCAMPIS).
• If applying for American Indian Tuition Waiver: Certificate of Indian Blood or Tribal Enrollment Card, and Montana residency proof. (mus.edu)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to file the FAFSA “until I choose a school.” File now; you can add schools later. Early filers get first shot at campus‑limited funds like FSEOG. (studentaid.gov)
• Skipping child support cooperation when required for Best Beginnings (non‑TANF households). If you have good cause, get it approved up front to avoid denial. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Assuming tuition waivers cover fees. Most Montana waivers are tuition‑only; fees can still be several hundred dollars per term. Plan for that. (mus.edu)
• Missing week‑3 waiver deadlines (Guard, certain survivor waivers). These are hard cutoffs. Put them in your phone calendar. (mus.edu)
• Not aligning your school schedule with TANF/Pathways hour rules. Document class, labs, and homework hours and communicate with your case manager before problems crop up. (acf.hhs.gov)

Diverse Communities: Targeted Tips and Resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your campus for an updated Cost of Attendance to include child care, health, and safety costs if you’ve recently changed households. Use 2‑1‑1 to find affirming counseling and legal name/gender‑marker clinics in your county. (montana211.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities (or moms of disabled children): Talk to Disability Services on campus to document accommodations. If you’re seeking employment supports, Montana Vocational Rehabilitation & Blind Services funds services and training—your VR counselor can coordinate with WIOA and campus aid. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Combine VA education benefits with Montana National Guard or Honorably Discharged Veteran waivers when eligible; check Yellow Ribbon and ask the campus to coordinate benefits so last‑dollar waivers apply correctly. (mus.edu, umt.edu)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms (eligible non‑citizens): If you’re FAFSA‑eligible, apply. For non‑federal options, look at campus scholarships and WIOA (citizens or authorized to work). Use the Job Service locator to ask about English‑plus‑training pathways. (montanaworks.gov)
• Tribal citizens: Prioritize the American Indian Tuition Waiver (tuition‑only) and campus American Indian student services. If documentation is the barrier, your campus aid office will outline what they can accept while you obtain CIB or enrollment documents. (mus.edu)
• Rural moms with long drives: Ask your aid office to add child care and commuting costs to your Cost of Attendance (this can increase grant eligibility). SNAP E&T counties are expanding—check if yours participates. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Single fathers: Most programs here are gender‑neutral. If you’re the custodial parent, you can apply to all of these supports under the same rules.
• Language access: Request translated forms and interpreter services from DPHHS programs and your campus aid office. 2‑1‑1 can connect you to local language resources. (montana211.org)

What to do if a plan falls through (Plan B after each major option)

• If Pell/FSEOG isn’t enough: Ask for a professional judgment review (job loss, new child, separation). Check Reach Higher Montana’s scholarship cycles each January–March and small rolling awards year‑round. (reachhighermontana.org)
• If Best Beginnings is delayed: Ask your provider for a temporary written payment plan while your application finalizes. Keep proof of submission; CCR&R can verify status to providers. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• If child care waitlists block class attendance: Ask advisors about online sections, hybrid schedules, and evening courses; check campus CCAMPIS and 2‑1‑1 for stopgap options. (montana.edu, montana211.org)
• If TANF hours conflict with finals: Get your instructor to note exam windows; ask your Pathways case manager to pre‑approve schedule exceptions. Put it in writing. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• If tuition waivers don’t apply to your program (fees only courses): Ask your campus about switching to an equivalent program billed as tuition (not “flat fee”) if possible. Check if the National Guard or survivor waivers can still cover standard tuition portions. (awardmontana.mus.edu)

Frequently Asked Questions (Montana‑specific)

• How much is the Pell Grant for 2025–26? Up to $7,395\ast \ast .MinimumPellis\ast \ast$740. Some students can receive summer (“year‑round”) Pell. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• Can I get grants if I’m part‑time? Yes. Pell and many campus grants prorate by enrollment intensity; FSEOG is limited and prioritized to highest need. (studentaid.gov)
• Does Best Beginnings cover unlicensed care? It pays licensed/registered providers and certain approved Family, Friend & Neighbor (FFN) arrangements if they’re approved; check with your CCR&R. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• I’m on TANF. Can I attend college? Yes—education and training can be part of your Family Investment Agreement. Payment standards (e.g., $725 for a 3‑person household) are posted by DPHHS. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Is there help for trade programs? Yes: Pell, WIOA, and the Gianforte Trade & Tech Scholarship ($1,500FT/$750 PT/term). (applymontana.mus.edu)
• I’m American Indian. What covers tuition? The American Indian Tuition Waiver (tuition‑only) if you meet blood degree/enrollment and need rules; still file FAFSA. BOR policy updated in July 2025 with a new app for Fall 2026. (mus.edu)
• I serve in the Montana National Guard. Is there a state waiver? Yes—last‑dollar up to in‑state tuition; apply by week 3 of the term you’ll first use it. (mus.edu)
• What campus child care money exists? MSU Bozeman runs a CCAMPIS program (Pell‑eligible student‑parents). UM operates ASUM Child Care with student rates and a culturally responsive pilot site. (montana.edu, umt.edu)
• I aged out of foster care. What’s my grant? Education & Training Vouchers—up to $5,000/year with Dec 15/Jul 1 priorities via Reach Higher Montana. (reachhighermontana.org)
• Where can I find local help fast? Call 2‑1‑1 or visit Montana 211 to search by county for child care, rent, utilities, legal help, food, and more. (montana211.org)

Regional Resource Finder

• Child Care Resource & Referral map with phone numbers (find your region’s office and licensor): DPHHS CCR&R. Western MT contact example: Child Care Resources 406‑728‑6446; Central/Eastern MT: Family Connections 800‑696‑4503. (dphhs.mt.gov, familyconnectionsmt.org)
• Job Service Montana offices: choose your city and book an appointment online. (montanaworks.gov)
• Montana 211: live helpline 2‑1‑1 and county‑specific database of non‑profits and government programs. (montana211.org)

Extra Money Savers (Montana‑specific)

• Montana 529 plan (Achieve Montana): Contributions up to $3,000\ast \ast pertaxpayer(\ast \ast$6,000 MFJ with separate contributions) are deductible on your Montana income tax return. This helps for future semesters or your child’s college. (revenue.mt.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from the Montana University System, the Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services (DPHHS), the Montana Department of Labor & Industry, and the U.S. Department of Education. It is produced under our Editorial Standards for source verification, inclusivity, and quick‑action guidance. We maintain active links to application portals and test them at publication.

• Last verified: September 2025. Next review: April 2026.
• Found an update or error? Email info@asinglemother.org. We review correction requests within 48 hours.

Editorial standards and methodology: see our Editorial Policy.

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Disclaimer

Program rules, amounts, and deadlines change. Always confirm the latest details with the agency or campus linked here before you apply or make decisions. We don’t provide legal advice and can’t guarantee outcomes. For your security, only use the official application links in this guide (we do not ask for your SSN or bank info). If a link appears broken, search the agency’s homepage or call the listed phone number immediately.

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Citations (selected)

• Federal Pell Grant maximum/minimum and 2025–26 rules. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• Aid program maximums (FSEOG, TEACH baseline). (studentaid.gov)
• TEACH sequestration amount FY26 (max $3,772). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
• Montana Access Scholarship (MUS). (mus.edu)
• Gianforte Trade & Technology Scholarship. (applymontana.mus.edu)
• MUS Honor Scholarship dates. (mus.edu)
• 2+2 Honor Scholarship. (mus.edu)
• STEM/Healthcare Scholarship dates/amounts. (mus.edu)
• UM Grizzly Promise and UM Need Grant. (umt.edu)
• American Indian Tuition Waiver policy and 2025 BOR update. (mus.edu)
• National Guard Tuition Waiver and waiver FAQ details. (mus.edu, awardmontana.mus.edu)
• Best Beginnings rules and CCR&R contacts. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• Best Beginnings income examples. (childcareresources.org)
• MSU CCAMPIS; UM child care options. (montana.edu, umt.edu)
• TANF payment standards and contacts (DPHHS). (dphhs.mt.gov)
• SNAP Employment & Training counties and referral. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• WIOA Adult program; Job Service locator. (wsd.dli.mt.gov, montanaworks.gov)
• Incumbent Worker Training grant amounts. (wsd.dli.mt.gov)
• ETV amounts and deadlines (Reach Higher Montana). (reachhighermontana.org)
• Montana 211. (montana211.org)

If something you need isn’t covered here, tell us. We update fast when state or federal rules change.

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🏛️More Montana Resources for Single Mothers

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