Education Grants for Single Mothers in West Virginia
West Virginia Education Grants for Single Mothers (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
This no‑fluff guide is for single moms in West Virginia who need real, workable ways to pay for college, training, or a short‑term credential. Every program below links straight to official sources, includes current dollar amounts and deadlines where available, and gives you backup plans if Plan A doesn’t pan out.
Jump to Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
Quick Help (read this first)
- Complete the FAFSA now. It’s required for federal and most WV grants. Federal deadline for the 2025–26 year is June 30, 2026; file early for state aid. Start at FAFSA (StudentAid.gov). (usa.gov)
- If you want a fast, affordable path, apply for the last‑dollar WV Invests Grant and your community college program. Priority date is typically April 15 each year. Drug screening and brief community service are required. (cfwv.com)
- Going part‑time? Ask about the HEAPS Grant (for part‑time students) or HEAPS Workforce (for short‑term/credential programs, up to $2,000). (cfwv.com)
- Need quick tuition help beyond federal/state aid? Check with your local American Job Center about WIOA “training scholarships.” Some WV regions offer up to 12,000∗∗or∗∗12,000** or **5,500 per year depending on county. Call WorkForce WV at 1‑800‑252‑JOBS (5627) or see the local office list. (regionviwv.org, npworkforcewv.org, workforcewv.org)
- If you’re a nursing student, the WV Nursing Scholarship offers up to 3,000∗∗(LPN),∗∗3,000** (LPN), **7,500 (RN), and $15,000 (graduate nursing) with a work‑in‑WV requirement. Apply April 15–June 1. (code.wvlegislature.gov, cfwv.com)
- Child care while you study: WV Child Care Assistance uses income limits at 85% of State Median Income (e.g., family of 2: 4,367/mo∗∗,3:∗∗4,367/mo**, 3: **5,394/mo, 4: $6,422/mo). Contact your local Resource & Referral or call 1‑800‑585‑1603 (CCRC). (bfa.wv.gov, ccrcwv.org)
- Veterans or spouses using the Post‑9/11 GI Bill: your monthly housing allowance equals the DoD BAH for an E‑5 with dependents at your school’s ZIP; online‑only programs get half the national average. Call the VA at 888‑442‑4551. (va.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Program | What it pays | 2025–26 key amount(s) | Top requirement(s) | Where to apply/learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Need‑based grant for undergrads | Max 7,395∗∗;minimum∗∗7,395**; minimum **740 (AY 2025‑26) | FAFSA required; based on Student Aid Index/family size etc. | ED Pell Grant award amounts (2025–26) (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| FSEOG | Campus‑based grant for highest‑need students | 100–100–4,000 typical max per year | FAFSA; campus funds limited, apply early | FSA Handbook FSEOG (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| WV Higher Education Grant (WVHEG) | Need‑based state grant | Up to $3,400 for 2025–26 | FAFSA by state deadline (April 15) | WVHEG Apply (cfwv.com) |
| WV Invests (last‑dollar) | Covers remaining tuition/mandatory fees at WV community colleges | Amount varies (last‑dollar after grants) | FAFSA, WV residency, drug screen, community service | WV Invests (cfwv.com) |
| HEAPS (Part‑time) | For part‑time undergrads | Award based on per‑credit tuition/fees | 6–11 credits (some exceptions), FAFSA | HEAPS (wvhepc.org) |
| HEAPS Workforce | Short‑term/workforce programs | Up to $2,000 | Financial need; approved programs | HEAPS Workforce (cfwv.com) |
| WV STEM Scholarship | For engineering/science/tech majors | Up to $3,000/yr | 3.0 GPA; service obligation in WV | WV STEM (cfwv.com) |
| Underwood‑Smith Teaching Scholars | For future WV teachers in critical fields | Up to 10,000/yr∗∗(max∗∗10,000/yr** (max **40,000) | Teach in WV public schools | Underwood‑Smith (cfwv.com, wvhepc.edu) |
| WV Nursing Scholarship | LPN/RN/Grad nursing | Up to 3,000∗∗LPN;∗∗3,000** LPN; **7,500 RN; 15,000∗∗grad;LPNCert∗∗15,000** grad; LPN Cert **1,000/yr; work‑in‑WV required | Apply Apr 15–Jun 1 | WV Nursing Scholarship (code.wvlegislature.gov, cfwv.com) |
| WIOA Training Scholarships (via WorkForce WV) | Tuition, books, fees, some support | Region caps vary (e.g., up to 12,000∗∗RegionVI;∗∗12,000** Region VI; **5,500/yr NPWDB) | Eligibility via local AJC | Region VI example; Northern Panhandle policy; Find Offices (regionviwv.org, npworkforcewv.org, workforcewv.org) |
Start here: Submit the FAFSA (fast and free)
Action steps:
- File the FAFSA online ASAP. Federal deadline for 2025–26 is June 30, 2026, but West Virginia state programs use earlier dates (e.g., April 15 for WVHEG; April 15 priority for WV Invests). Start at FAFSA (StudentAid.gov via USAGov). (usa.gov, cfwv.com)
- Create your FSA ID ahead of time for you (and a contributor if needed). The FAFSA needs 2023 tax info for 2025–26. (usa.gov)
- Unsure who counts as the FAFSA “parent”? Use ED’s guidance and your school’s aid office; the form considers household/financial support rules. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
Reality check:
- Processing can be smooth if you submit early and respond to your school’s requests fast. Waiting can cost you campus‑based aid like FSEOG which runs out. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
Helpful contacts:
- Federal Student Aid Info Center: 1‑800‑433‑3243 (TTY: 1‑800‑730‑8913)
- WV financial aid hotline (WVHEPC/CTCS): 1‑877‑987‑7664. (cfwv.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you hit snags (e.g., contributor login, tax transfer), contact your college aid office and Call FSA. You can still submit and fix later; don’t miss state deadlines. (usa.gov)
Federal grants you should grab
Federal Pell Grant
- Maximum for 2025–26 is 7,395∗∗;minimumis∗∗7,395**; minimum is **740. Award depends on your Student Aid Index, family size, and enrollment level. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- You can receive up to 150% of your scheduled annual award in certain year‑round cases (summer). Ask your aid office. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your Pell is low, layer in state aid (WVHEG, HEAPS) and WIOA training funds, and pick a lower‑cost program to stretch dollars. (cfwv.com, regionviwv.org)
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
- Typically 100–100–4,000 per year, awarded by campuses to the highest‑need students until funds are spent—file early. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your aid office about emergency grant funds, payment plans, or short‑term loans while you wait on other aid. (See WV’s 2024–25 one‑time College Access Emergency Grant details below for context.) (wvhepc.edu)
TEACH Grant (for future teachers)
- Max statutory 4,000∗∗peryear,butsequestrationreducesitto∗∗4,000** per year, but sequestration reduces it to **3,772 for awards first disbursed Oct 1, 2025–Sep 30, 2026. You must teach in a high‑need field at a qualifying school or it converts to a loan. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re set on teaching in WV, consider the state’s Underwood‑Smith Teaching Scholars (up to $10,000/yr) and combine with Promise/WVHEG if eligible. (cfwv.com)
West Virginia state grants and scholarships (single‑mom friendly)
WV Higher Education Grant (WVHEG)
- What it is: Need‑based state grant usable at approved WV or PA colleges.
- 2025–26 award: up to 3,400∗∗(note:2024–25hadaone‑timeboostto∗∗3,400** (note: 2024–25 had a one‑time boost to **6,800 due to FAFSA issues). Deadline usually April 15 (file FAFSA). (wvhepc.edu, cfwv.com)
- How to apply: File FAFSA by deadline; monitor status in your WVSAM account. (cfwv.com)
- Timeline: Notifications typically mid‑May (HS seniors) and June (others). (cfwv.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you missed the filing date, ask your aid office about reconsideration cycles and add HEAPS/Workforce or WIOA funds. (wvhepc.org, cfwv.com, regionviwv.org)
WV Invests (Community & Technical Colleges)
- What it is: A last‑dollar grant that covers remaining tuition/mandatory fees for eligible certificate/associate programs at WV community and technical colleges. Not for books/housing. (cfwv.com)
- Requirements: FAFSA, WV residency, admitted to an eligible program, pass a drug screen within 60 days before the term, maintain 2.0 GPA, and complete short community service each term. (cfwv.com, code.wvlegislature.gov)
- Dates: Priority by April 15; award letters roll out starting March (for summer), June (for fall), November (for spring). (cfwv.com)
- Tip: Many programs partner with “Learn & Earn,” paying at least $15/hr for co‑op work while you study (employer and college split wages 50/50). Ask your campus workforce office. (wvctcs.edu, mctc.edu, bridgevalley.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you can’t pass the drug screen right now, talk to the Invests office about retesting windows/rehab options in the policy and enroll with other aid (HEAPS Workforce, WIOA) while you get back on track. (cfwv.com)
HEAPS Grant (part‑time students)
- What it is: For part‑time undergrads (generally 6–11 credits). Amount ties to per‑credit tuition/fees; FAFSA required. (wvhepc.org)
- Action: Apply through your institution after FAFSA confirmation.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you need a very short program or a quick credential, HEAPS Workforce may be faster. (cfwv.com)
HEAPS Workforce (short‑term, noncredit credentials)
- What it is: Up to $2,000 for approved short‑term/industry programs (rolling applications from July 1; first‑come, first‑served). FAFSA used to verify need. (cfwv.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your American Job Center about WIOA ITA funds for the same program, or your college about Rapid Response or employer‑funded training. (regionviwv.org, broadband.wv.gov)
WV STEM Scholarship (Engineering/Science/Tech)
- Up to $3,000/yr; apply by March 1 via WVSAM; service obligation (work in WV). (cfwv.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about departmental scholarships at your college (STEM often has them) and combine with WIOA or WV Invests if you’re at a community college. (cfwv.com)
Underwood‑Smith Teaching Scholars
- Up to 10,000/yr∗∗(max∗∗10,000/yr** (max **40,000) for future teachers in math, science, elementary ed, or special ed; service obligation to teach in WV. New cohorts selected annually. (cfwv.com, wvhepc.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Pair federal TEACH Grant ($3,772 after sequester) with WVHEG; consider paraprofessional pathways while studying. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
WV Nursing Scholarship
- Max awards set by law: 3,000∗∗(LPN),∗∗3,000** (LPN), **7,500 (RN), 15,000∗∗(Master’s/Doctoral),∗∗15,000** (Master’s/Doctoral), **1,000/yr (LPN Teaching Certificate), with required service in WV. Apply Apr 15–Jun 1 via WVSAM. (code.wvlegislature.gov, cfwv.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Check hospital tuition assistance or “work‑and‑learn” programs; combine Pell/HEAPS; ask Workforce WV about healthcare training on the Eligible Training Provider List. (regionviwv.org)
One‑time 2024–25 WV College Access Emergency Grant (context)
- In 2024, WV added 11.2M∗∗foremergencygrants(upto∗∗11.2M** for emergency grants (up to **2,000) and doubled WVHEG to $6,800 in response to FAFSA delays. For 2025–26, plan for regular WVHEG limits unless the state announces another round. Check CFWV news. (wvhepc.edu, governor.wv.gov)
WIOA “training scholarships” (American Job Centers)
These can pay tuition, books, tests, and sometimes transportation or child care while you complete an in‑demand program.
- Region VI (north‑central counties) advertises up to $12,000 for training plus small transport support; contact your county career planner. (regionviwv.org)
- Northern Panhandle Workforce Board caps ITAs at 5,500perprogramyear∗∗,upto∗∗5,500 per program year**, up to **11,000 over two years. (npworkforcewv.org)
- Find your local office: WorkForce WV locations and 1‑800‑252‑JOBS (5627), or use the state board’s “find your local workforce board” page. (workforcewv.org, workforcedb.wv.gov)
Timelines:
- You typically must meet with a career planner and be approved at least a few business days before classes start; some regions ask for approval ≥5 days pre‑start. (regionviwv.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about On‑the‑Job Training (OJT) or Incumbent Worker Training while you work, and apply for HEAPS Workforce or WV Invests as your school option. (npworkforcewv.org, workforcewv.org)
Child care while you study (so you can actually attend)
- Income eligibility: WV uses 85% of State Median Income (SMI) by family size. 2024 SMI chart (in use for eligibility beginning May 1, 2024) shows these monthly limits at 85% SMI:
| Family size | 85% SMI (monthly) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $3,339 |
| 2 | $4,367 |
| 3 | $5,394 |
| 4 | $6,422 |
| 5 | $7,555 |
| 6 | $8,477 |
- Where to get help: Call your county’s Child Care Resource & Referral (e.g., CCRC statewide line 1‑800‑585‑1603) or see the Bureau for Family Assistance page for policy, fee scale, and rates. (ccrcwv.org, bfa.wv.gov)
- Reality: Subsidy usually pays the provider directly; you may owe a sliding‑fee copay. Get your school/ work schedule verified early to avoid gaps. (bfa.wv.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re over income by a little, ask about Head Start/Early Head Start, campus child care scholarships, or flexible class schedules to reduce care hours. (bfa.wv.gov)
Support if you’re receiving SNAP or WV WORKS (TANF)
- SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) can fund training at no cost to you and provide supportive services while you prepare for work. Ask your case manager to refer you. (bfa.wv.gov)
- WV WORKS (TANF) can include education or training in your personal responsibility plan and may help with transportation, licensing, required uniforms/tools, or short‑term dental/vision related to employability. Apply via WV PATH or your local DoHS office. (bfa.wv.gov, wvdhhr.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your TANF case can’t cover schooling, combine Pell/WVHEG/HEAPS with WIOA training funds, and ask your college about emergency aid.
If you have a disability: Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS)
- DRS can help pay tuition, books, and assistive tech up to your “unmet need,” not exceeding the current in‑state baccalaureate tuition rate at the highest WV public institution, after FAFSA aid is applied. Call 1‑800‑642‑8207 to get connected. (wvdrs.org)
- Note: Budgets can change year‑to‑year; if you’re denied the full amount you hoped for, ask your counselor about comparable benefits and document unmet costs. (wvdrs.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Appeal with updated documentation; meet with your school’s disability services to coordinate accommodations while you pursue other funding. (wvdrs.org)
Veterans and military families
- Post‑9/11 GI Bill covers tuition (up to caps) and pays a Monthly Housing Allowance equal to BAH for an E‑5 with dependents at your school ZIP; online‑only students receive half the national average. Use the DoD BAH lookup and call the VA at 888‑442‑4551. (va.gov)
- Test/licensure fees: GI Bill reimburses up to $2,000 per exam and recognizes many certification tests—handy for short‑term credentials. (va.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Pair VA benefits with WV Invests (if you’re at a CTC) or WIOA training funds; ask campus veterans services to map the smartest stack of benefits. (cfwv.com, regionviwv.org)
Real‑world examples
- Community college nursing path: You file FAFSA and qualify for Pell. You apply for WV Invests (last‑dollar) and pass the drug screen; your tuition/mandatory fees are covered after Pell. You also apply for the WV Nursing Scholarship at midpoint for up to $7,500 (RN) with a two‑year WV service commitment. You arrange child care through the 85% SMI subsidy to cover lab/clinical days. (fsapartners.ed.gov, cfwv.com, code.wvlegislature.gov, bfa.wv.gov)
- Short‑term credential while working: You’re part‑time and can’t do a full degree this term. You apply for HEAPS Workforce to cover a certified phlebotomy program (up to $2,000) and ask your Region VI AJC for WIOA help with books/testing and gas cards. (cfwv.com, regionviwv.org)
Timelines you can expect
| Task | Typical timing |
|---|---|
| FAFSA filing | Do it now; federal deadline for 2025–26 is June 30, 2026 (earlier for WV grants). (usa.gov) |
| WVHEG decisions | Emails mid‑May (HS seniors) and June (others). (cfwv.com) |
| WV Invests award notifications | Summer starts in March; fall in June; spring in November. Drug screen within 60 days before term. (cfwv.com) |
| HEAPS Workforce | Rolling from July 1 until funds run out; first‑come. (cfwv.com) |
| WV Nursing Scholarship | Application window Apr 15–Jun 1 for the next academic year. (cfwv.com) |
| WIOA ITA approvals | Meet with the AJC; many regions require approval several business days before classes start. (regionviwv.org) |
Money + support you might be missing
- Learn & Earn paid co‑ops: Many WV community colleges can place you with an employer at ≥ $15/hour, splitting wages so you can earn while in school. Ask your campus workforce office. (wvctcs.edu)
- WV Adult Education (free): If you need to finish your high‑school equivalency (HiSET/GED) or brush up for placement tests, call 800‑642‑2670 or find a class near you. Some centers offer online/after‑hours options. (wvde.us)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing WV state deadlines (e.g., April 15 for WVHEG and WV Invests priority). Put reminders on your phone now. (cfwv.com)
- Skipping the FAFSA because you “make too much.” Many aid programs (WV Invests, HEAPS) still require a FAFSA even if your Pell is low. (cfwv.com)
- Waiting on child care until after classes start. Start your child care subsidy file as soon as you register; bring work/school schedules and identity/citizenship proofs for your kids. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Ignoring drug‑screen timing for WV Invests (must be within 60 days before your first eligible term). (cfwv.com)
- Not checking local WIOA rules. Each region sets its own caps and paperwork. Call ahead to avoid last‑minute denials. (regionviwv.org, npworkforcewv.org)
Program‑by‑program details (with Plan B)
A) Community colleges and WV Invests
Action first:
- Pick an eligible program; file FAFSA; submit WV Invests app; watch your WVSAM/email for award + drug‑screen window. (cfwv.com)
Required documents:
- FAFSA confirmation, WV residency, admissions proof, drug screen, and (each term) verification of short community service hours. (cfwv.com)
Reality checks:
- Invests is last‑dollar. Books, supplies, and some program fees are on you unless covered by other aid. Pair with Pell, HEAPS Workforce, Learn & Earn wages. (cfwv.com, wvctcs.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you lose eligibility (missed drug screen or GPA dip), ask your aid office about HEAPS, payment plans, or short‑term credentials funded by WIOA while you re‑qualify. (cfwv.com, regionviwv.org)
B) Part‑time and short‑term paths (HEAPS + HEAPS Workforce)
Action first:
- If carrying 6–11 credits, ask about HEAPS with your college aid office after FAFSA. If doing a short employer‑recognized credential, apply for HEAPS Workforce (rolling from July 1; up to $2,000). (wvhepc.org, cfwv.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Stack WIOA ITA funds and ask if your program is on the Eligible Training Provider List for your region. (regionviwv.org)
C) Four‑year or transfer paths (WVHEG, STEM, teaching, nursing)
Action first:
- File FAFSA by April 15; then submit any state scholarship apps that fit (STEM by March 1; Underwood‑Smith teaching; Nursing Apr 15–Jun 1 if in nursing). (cfwv.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If awards are short, use campus payment plans, apply for departmental scholarships, and ask WorkForce WV about OJT support to earn while enrolled. (workforcewv.org)
Key tables to keep handy
FAFSA dates + help
| Item | 2025–26 |
|---|---|
| Federal FAFSA close date | June 30, 2026 |
| WVHEG/WV Invests priority date | Typically April 15, 2025 for 2025–26 (check CFWV each year) |
| Federal aid help | 1‑800‑433‑3243 |
| WV aid hotline (CFWV/HEPC/CTCS) | 1‑877‑987‑7664 |
Federal + State grant amounts at a glance
| Grant | Amount (max) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pell | $7,395 | 2025–26; based on SAI/family size/enrollment. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| FSEOG | $4,000 (typical cap) | Campus‑based; limited funds; early FAFSA helps. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| TEACH | $3,772 (after sequester) | For high‑need teachers; converts to loan if service not met. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| WVHEG | $3,400 | 2025–26; FAFSA by Apr 15. (wvhepc.edu, cfwv.com) |
| HEAPS Workforce | $2,000 | Short‑term programs; rolling from July 1. (cfwv.com) |
| WV STEM | $3,000/yr | Service obligation in WV. (cfwv.com) |
| Underwood‑Smith | 10,000/yr∗∗;∗∗10,000/yr**; **40,000 total | Teach in WV schools. (wvhepc.edu) |
| WV Nursing Scholarship | 3,000∗∗LPN;∗∗3,000** LPN; **7,500 RN; 15,000∗∗grad;∗∗15,000** grad; **1,000/yr LPN‑teaching | With service in WV; apply Apr 15–Jun 1. (code.wvlegislature.gov, cfwv.com) |
Child care subsidy income limits (85% SMI—monthly)
| Family size | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly income | $3,339 | $4,367 | $5,394 | $6,422 | $7,555 | $8,477 |
WIOA funding examples by region (amounts vary—confirm locally)
| Region/Board | Example funding cap | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Region VI (north‑central WV) | Up to $12,000 + limited transport | See county contacts on Region VI page |
| Northern Panhandle WDB | 5,500peryear∗∗,upto∗∗5,500 per year**, up to **11,000 over 2 years | Contact NPWDB; American Job Center local office list |
Where to get in‑person help
| Need | Where | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| General job training, WIOA, tuition help | WorkForce WV local offices | 1‑800‑252‑JOBS (5627); Find your local office (workforcewv.org) |
| FAFSA/State aid questions | WV CFWV/HEPC/CTCS | 1‑877‑987‑7664; CFWV Financial Aid (cfwv.com) |
| Adult Education (HiSET prep/skills) | WV Adult Ed | 800‑642‑2670; Find a class (wvde.us) |
| Disability‑related tuition help | WV Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) | 1‑800‑642‑8207; WVDRS (wvdrs.org) |
Local organizations and nonprofits that actually help
- West Virginia Women Work (construction/manufacturing pre‑apprenticeships; tuition‑free programs; job placement support). HQ (304) 598‑0114. WV Women Work (westvirginiawomenwork.org)
- Goodwill Industries (Kanawha Valley/“Goodwill of the Summit”): free job‑readiness classes, certifications, paid training at partner sites. Career Services (goodwillkv.com)
- YWCA Charleston (job/education readiness, child development center; helpful for moms balancing school/work): Program info & contacts (ywcacharleston.org)
- WV Adult Education: free HiSET prep, basic skills, and distance education options. 800‑642‑2670. Adult Ed statewide (wvde.us)
Diverse Communities: tailored tips and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your college about an LGBTQ+ support center and chosen‑name policies; for teaching or nursing scholarships, focus on objective eligibility (GPA, service obligation). Combine campus aid with WVHEG/HEAPS regardless of orientation.
- Single moms with disabilities or disabled children: Contact DRS (1‑800‑642‑8207) early—DRS can fund training up to your unmet need and coordinate assistive tech. Pair with child care subsidy and ask for schedule accommodations with Adult Ed or your college’s disability services. (wvdrs.org)
- Veteran single moms: Map out your MHA using the DoD BAH lookup and the VA GI Bill page; for online‑only semesters, know the housing rate is half the national average. Call 888‑442‑4551 for GI Bill counseling and stack WIOA if needed. (va.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee moms (eligible noncitizens): If you have eligible status for federal aid, file FAFSA and bring your documentation. For English support, look for Adult Ed ESOL classes in your county list. (wvde.us)
- Tribal citizens: Combine federal/state aid with any tribal education grants; ask your AJC for WIOA tribal coordination if applicable.
- Rural moms with limited internet: Use local library labs, Adult Ed labs, or your AJC computer lab to file FAFSA and applications; ask your college about mobile‑friendly WVSAM access.
- Single fathers: All programs above apply equally—child care, WIOA, HEAPS, WVHEG, etc., are gender‑neutral.
- Language access: Adult Ed offers ESOL and distance options; many state pages include translation tools. Start with your county Adult Ed site or call 800‑642‑2670 for referral. (wvde.us)
Resources by region (to find local human help fast)
- WorkForce WV statewide office locator and helpline 1‑800‑252‑JOBS: Local Office Locations. Includes Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, Martinsburg, Beckley, and more. (workforcewv.org)
- Find your Workforce Development Board (Regions 1–7) to learn WIOA rules and training caps in your county: Find Your Local Workforce Board. (workforcedb.wv.gov)
Application Checklist
- Valid photo ID, Social Security number (and for contributors if needed).
- 2023 federal tax return information (for 2025–26 FAFSA).
- Your school list; program name and start date.
- Proof of WV residency (for state grants).
- For WV Invests: watch for your award letter, complete the drug screen within the stated 60‑day window, and complete your community service hours each term. (cfwv.com)
- If seeking child care subsidy: ID, proof of residency, proof of school/work schedule, proof of child citizenship, and any child support verification. (wvdhhr.org)
What might be hard (and how to handle it)
- Not enough to cover books/supplies: Ask your school about book vouchers or emergency aid; check if HEAPS Workforce can cover required testing/supplies for short programs. (cfwv.com)
- Transportation: Some WIOA regions can help with limited gas/transportation support during training. (regionviwv.org)
- Juggling child care: Apply early; verify schedules; look for campus childcare or Head Start to fill gaps. (bfa.wv.gov)
- Schedules and work: Consider programs with Learn & Earn co‑ops (≥ $15/hr) so you earn while you study. (wvctcs.edu)
FAQs (West Virginia education grants & student‑parents)
- What’s the absolute latest I can file the FAFSA for 2025–26?
Federal deadline is June 30, 2026, but state grants have earlier priority dates (e.g., April 15). File early. (usa.gov, cfwv.com) - How much Pell can I expect?
Max 7,395∗∗;minimum∗∗7,395**; minimum **740 (AY 2025–26). Your exact amount depends on your Student Aid Index, family size, and enrollment. (fsapartners.ed.gov) - Is WV Invests really “free tuition”?
It’s last‑dollar—after Pell and other grants, it covers remaining tuition/mandatory fees for eligible CTC programs. You must pass a drug screen, keep a 2.0 GPA, and complete brief community service each term. (cfwv.com) - I can only take 6–8 credits. What helps part‑time?
Ask about HEAPS (part‑time), HEAPS Workforce (short‑term up to $2,000), and WIOA training funds through your AJC. (wvhepc.org, cfwv.com) - What’s the WV Higher Education Grant for 2025–26?
Up to 3,400∗∗foreligiblestudents;fileFAFSAby∗∗April15∗∗.(Note:2024–25hadaone‑timeincreaseto∗∗3,400** for eligible students; file FAFSA by **April 15**. (Note: 2024–25 had a one‑time increase to **6,800.) (wvhepc.edu) - Can I get help with child care while I’m a student?
Yes. WV uses 85% of State Median Income by family size to determine eligibility (e.g., family of 3: $5,394/mo). Contact your local R&R or CCRC 1‑800‑585‑1603. (bfa.wv.gov, ccrcwv.org) - I’m a nursing student—what state help exists?
The WV Nursing Scholarship offers up to 3,000∗∗(LPN),∗∗3,000** (LPN), **7,500 (RN), 15,000∗∗(grad),∗∗15,000** (grad), **1,000/yr (LPN teaching cert) with a WV work/teaching commitment. Apply Apr 15–Jun 1. (code.wvlegislature.gov, cfwv.com) - I don’t have a high school diploma. Where do I start?
Call 800‑642‑2670 to connect with WV Adult Education for free HiSET prep and skill‑building; many sites offer flexible or distance options. (wvde.us) - Who can help me in person with WIOA training money?
Visit your nearest WorkForce WV office (see the statewide list) or call 1‑800‑252‑JOBS. Funding caps vary by region. (workforcewv.org) - I’m a veteran. How do housing payments work for school?
Your GI Bill MHA equals the DoD BAH for an E‑5 with dependents at your school’s ZIP. For online‑only, you receive half the national average. Call 888‑442‑4551 for specifics. (va.gov)
Quick Reference: Contact + Link Hub
- FAFSA & Federal Aid: FAFSA (USAGov) | 1‑800‑433‑3243 (usa.gov)
- WV State Aid (CFWV): College for WV | 1‑877‑987‑7664 (cfwv.com)
- WorkForce WV (WIOA/AJCs): Find Local Offices | 1‑800‑252‑JOBS (workforcewv.org)
- Adult Education: Find a Class | 800‑642‑2670 (wvde.us)
- Child Care Assistance/Policies: BFA Child Care | SMI/fee charts and R&R links (bfa.wv.gov)
- DRS (Disability‑related education support): WV DRS | 1‑800‑642‑8207 (wvdrs.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from West Virginia Department of Human Services, the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission (CFWV/HEPC), USDA/ED/VA, WorkForce West Virginia, 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, deadlines, and dollar amounts change. Always verify details with the agency or college before you apply or enroll. We do not collect personal data from this page, and we never ask you to send sensitive information by email. For your security, use only official .gov/.edu portals linked above, keep your FAFSA/FSA ID private, and avoid third‑party “aid” services that ask for fees or your Social Security number.
Sources (selected)
- Federal Pell Grant amounts 2025–26. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- FSEOG award parameters. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- WVHEG deadlines/amount; 2024–25 one‑time increase; 2025–26 amount. (cfwv.com, wvhepc.edu)
- WV Invests details; award timelines; drug screen policy; community service/GPA requirements. (cfwv.com)
- HEAPS (part‑time) and HEAPS Workforce (up to $2,000; rolling from July 1). (wvhepc.org, cfwv.com)
- WV Nursing Scholarship legal maximums; application window; service obligations. (code.wvlegislature.gov, cfwv.com)
- Underwood‑Smith Teaching Scholars (up to $10,000/yr). (cfwv.com, wvhepc.edu)
- WV STEM Scholarship (up to $3,000/yr). (cfwv.com)
- WIOA funding examples (Region VI up to 12,000;NorthernPanhandle12,000; Northern Panhandle 5,500/yr). (regionviwv.org, npworkforcewv.org)
- Child care subsidy income limits at 85% SMI (2024 chart). (bfa.wv.gov)
- SNAP E&T and WV WORKS education supports. (bfa.wv.gov)
- DRS contribution policy and contacts. (wvdrs.org)
- VA GI Bill rates (MHA = BAH for E‑5 with dependents; test fee coverage). (va.gov)
If you want help triaging your situation (what to do first, which forms, and which office to call), reply with your county, the program you’re eyeing, and your intended start date. I’ll map out a 2‑week action plan tailored to you.
🏛️More West Virginia Resources for Single Mothers
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