Education Grants for Women, Age 35 and Over

“Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day; teach a man to fish and he will eat for a lifetime” goes the often heard phrase.  It is true that education is the best defence in overcoming poverty, yet it also seems fraught with overwhelming obstacles for some.  There are many women over the age of 35 who, for various reasons, are in the position of finding that furthering their education is a necessity in improving the life of their children, their families, and indeed, themselves.   When faced with bills, raising children, and barely subsisting on their current income, though, returning to school feels like an impossible dream.

There are ways in which this goal may be accomplished with the help of grants (either government, private, corporate, or professional).   A prime example is the Jeannette Rankin Foundation for Low Income Women.   This is an excellent avenue for a woman who has the determination to succeed; to better her own life and her community.  If you are willing to put a great effort into breaking the cycle of poverty, this is definitely a grant to investigate.

The requirements to become a JRF scholar, you must:

• Be a woman, age 35 or over.
• Be a U.S. citizen.
• Be enrolled in, or accepted to, an accredited school.
• Pursue a technical or vocational education, an associate’s degree, or a first bachelor’s degree.
• Have a low-income as set out in the U.S. Department of Labor’s Lower Living Standard.

The funds available through this grant may be used where they are needed most, without restriction.  This means you can use the funds for books, child-care, groceries, tuition, or wherever else you most need the financial aid. 

When applying for this grant, as with most others, it is imperative that the entire application is filled out correctly, and all supporting documents submitted (only submit required documents; any extraneous paperwork and documents will be discarded.)  Prepare, also, to write a concise and detailed plan as to your educational and career goals, what you are willing to do to reach those goals, and how reaching those goals will benefit you, your family, and your community.

You will also need to submit two letters of reference, specific to yourself and your goals, from people (excluding family members) who know you.  Letters from an instructor or advisor are best if you are able to obtain one, but you will still be considered with letters from outside an educational institution. 

This is a competitive grant, meaning that while nothing will guarantee your success in receiving it, having a complete and well thought-out application will certainly increase your edge in winning this grant.  If this is a viable option to you, we wish you well as you strive to make improvements in your life armed with education.