Grants and Scholarships for Low-Income or Unemployed Students

Completing a postsecondary education is incredibly valuable, including to employers.

Whether you choose to take the four-year college route or gain hands-on training at a trade school,¹⁸ choosing an education beyond high school is a great way to help set yourself up for a career.¹

Continuing your education can be a game-changer for your career, but paying for it can seem daunting. Thankfully, scholarships and grants can lighten the financial load for those who qualify. They can provide funds for your educational journey so you can save on your education. With so many available grants and scholarships,  exploring your options could help you find opportunities to support your training for an in-demand career!¹⁰

Continue reading. We’ve put together a guide that will walk you through different types of scholarships, grants and financial aid.

Key Summary Points

• Postsecondary education is valuable for a long-term career, but the cost can be a barrier for many individuals. Scholarships and grants are available to help offset education expenses for unemployed and low-income students.
• Scholarships are often merit-based, while grants are typically need-based. Both provide funds that do not need to be repaid, making them valuable resources for those looking to further their education.
• There are various grants available for unemployed individuals, such as the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants and state-specific programs, offering financial assistance to those seeking to go back to school.
• Numerous scholarships cater to unemployed and low-income students, including programs like Return2College, Adult Students in Scholastic Transition and Imagine America Scholarships, providing financial support for education-related expenses.
• Applying for scholarships and grants requires attention to detail, organization and persistence. Utilizing resources like scholarship search tools and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, and following application instructions diligently can increase the chances of securing financial aid for education.

Scholarships vs. Grants: What’s the Difference? 

Both scholarships and grants provide students with money they can use toward their education. In most cases, this money doesn’t need to be repaid.

While scholarships and grants are often used interchangeably, there are key differences to note.

What is a scholarship? 

Scholarships are financial awards that typically don’t need to be repaid. They’re often based on merit like academic achievement, athletic skill or a specific talent. While some scholarships consider financial need, many focus on accomplishments or affiliations. There are also low-income scholarships available for students who qualify. Scholarships can be awarded by schools, private organizations, corporations or government agencies.

What is a grant? 

Grants are need-based financial aid designed to help students who may not have the resources to pay for school. Grants for low-income students or grants to go back to school for unemployed individuals are common examples. Unlike loans, grants typically don’t have to be repaid unless certain conditions aren’t met. They are often distributed through federal and state programs, colleges and universities to support access to education.

Read: Frequently Asked Questions on UTI’s Social Media

Benefits of Scholarships and Grants for Unemployed or Low-Income Students 

Reduced financial burden 

Grants for low income and scholarships for low-income students can significantly reduce the cost of tuition, books and other school-related expenses. For students who are unemployed or facing financial hardship, this kind of aid can ease the stress of paying for education without taking on large amounts of debt.

Increased access to education 

These forms of aid make it possible for more students to enroll in training programs or degree paths that might otherwise be financially out of reach.

Improved career opportunities 

Scholarships and grants for unemployed students can open doors to new careers by helping fund the education and training needed to qualify for in-demand jobs. Whether you're switching careers or starting fresh, financial aid can support your long-term professional goals.

Access to support services and networks 

Many scholarship and grant programs connect students with additional support services, including mentorship, career coaching and academic advising. UTI has a Support Services team to help with housing assistance, disability services and more. These resources can be especially valuable for low-income students or those returning to school after a period of unemployment.

Empowering financial independence through education 

Education can be a powerful path to self-sufficiency. By reducing financial barriers, low-income scholarships and grants to go back to school for unemployed learners provide a chance to gain the skills and credentials needed to pursue stable, rewarding careers — and greater financial independence.

Grants for Unemployed Students

If you’re currently unemployed and are looking to go back to school, you may be eligible to receive financial assistance through grants.

While there are many grants available for younger students who are just starting their careers, there are also grants for older students looking to further their education to meet their career goals.

Keep in mind that many of these opportunities can apply to both unemployed and low-income students, and this list represents a small fraction of the scholarships and grants available.

Here’s a quick look at available grants to go back to school for unemployed people:

• Federal Pell Grant: One of the most common grants available, the Federal Pell Grant is open to students of all ages, genders and incomes. This grant is available to students with demonstrated financial need and who have not completed their postsecondary education. To learn more, check out this guide to Pell Grants.
•  Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SFEOG): An FSEOG is similar to a Pell Grant but limited to participating schools. If your school receives funds to support FSEOGs, contact its financial aid office or check its website to ensure you don’t miss the application deadline. The earlier you apply, the better!
• Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants: These grants are awarded to students whose parent or guardian was a member of the U.S. armed forces and died as a result of military service performed in Iraq or Afghanistan after the events of 9/11.
• Program for Continuing Education: P.E.O. offers this grant to women to provide financial support for a certificate or degree they need for employment. The awarded amount is up to $3,000.
• State-Specific Grants: In addition to federal programs, there are also state-funded programs designed to support low-income or unemployed adult learners looking to return to school. For example, the Lake/Geauga Educational Assistance Foundation (LEAF) provides grants to nontraditional students in Ohio. To find grants available in your state, visit the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators website.

Read: Empowering Success: Things You Should Know about UTI’s Student Coaching Program

Scholarships for Unemployed Students

There are a variety of scholarships available for adults going back to school. If you are currently unemployed and are exploring your options for schooling, here are a few opportunities that may be worth applying for:

• Return2College (R2C): The R2C program makes available $1,000 each to select students to put toward their education. To apply, a short essay response is required.
• Adult Students in Scholastic Transition: This scholarship was created to help adult students who are going through a transition in their lives, whether it’s being a single parent, a displaced employee or just entering the workforce. The amount awarded can vary anywhere from $250 to $2,500.
• College JumpStart Scholarship: Designed for nontraditional students, this scholarship makes available $1,000 to those committed to improving the lives of themselves, their family and their community through education.
• SuperCollege Scholarship: This annual random drawing offers $1,000 each to students pursuing higher education. The prize can be used to cover tuition, books or any other education-related costs.
• $2,000 “No Essay” College Scholarship: This scholarship is just as simple as it sounds. After creating a profile with Niche.com, students can apply for the scholarship every month.
• Unigo $10K Scholarship: An applicant for this scholarship must be a student at an accredited institution in the U.S. and answer a short prompt in 250 words or less. To learn more about the scholarship rules and requirements, visit the Unigo website.
• TechForce Foundation: The TechForce Foundation makes more than $1.5 million in scholarships and grants available to students attending trade schools like Universal Technical Institute (UTI).
• mikeroweWORKS Foundation Work Ethic Scholarship Program: This program awards scholarships to students who demonstrate a strong work ethic in the skilled trades industries.

Read: Why You Should Take Advantage of UTI’s Advanced Placement Opportunities

Grants for Low-Income Students

Depending on your income, you may be eligible for grant money to lower the cost of your education.   Several of the opportunities listed under grants for unemployed students also apply, but here are some additional low-income grants worth noting:

• AARP Foundation: Some grants are offered exclusively for women, such as those offered by the AARP Foundation. This program offers grants and funding to women older than 40 who are looking to finish their education.
• Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF): This grant program was created for single Hispanic parents going back to school. Applicants must have a demonstrated financial need, as well as meet several other requirements such as being permanent residents in the state. To learn more and apply, visit the HSF website.
• Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards: This program was created for women who are the primary source of financial support for themselves and their dependents. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and be enrolled or accepted into a vocational or undergraduate program.

Read: From UTI Grad to Welding Pro: Dagan Carpenter’s Journey

Scholarships for Low-Income Students

In addition to grants, there are also plenty of low-income scholarships available for those who qualify. Here’s a list of opportunities that may be worth considering:

• Imagine America Scholarships: Imagine America is a nonprofit organization that provides grants and scholarships for nontraditional students. The program was created for adults looking to return to school after some time working in a field.
• Bringing the Dream Scholarship Program: This program is designed to help low-income students cover the cost of their education. The scholarship is awarded based on need, and there’s a set of specific criteria that must be met to qualify. Visit the Sallie Mae website for more information.
• Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund (JRF): The JRF scholarship provides support for low-income women ages 35 and older. The awarded funds can be used for technical or vocational education or to pursue an associate degree or bachelor’s degree. Visit the Rankin Foundation’s website to learn more about eligibility and how to apply.
• Beacon Scholarship for Rural America: This scholarship helps low-income students living in rural areas. Three $1,000 scholarships are awarded every year, and graduating high school seniors, current college students and adult students are eligible to apply.
• AFCEA Scholarship for Working Professionals: The AFCEA offers several scholarships for those who work and attend college part-time. Learn more on the AFCEA website.
• Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Awards: This award supports mothers of minor children who are pursuing their first degree. To qualify, they must demonstrate low-income status based on the number of people in their household.

Read: Picking the Right Path for Me: Drew Dailey’s Decision To Attend Trade School

Tips for Applying for Scholarships and Grants

When applying for scholarships and grants, it’s important to ensure you’re putting your best foot forward. This will help to increase your chances of receiving the funds needed for your education.

Applying for scholarships

The above list is a small sample of the thousands of scholarships out there. Scholarships.com, Fastweb and the U.S. Department of Labor’s scholarship search tool are all great resources to use when searching for scholarships.

When applying, always read the requirements and follow instructions thoroughly. If you’re applying for multiple scholarships, be sure to stay organized and remember that even if you aren’t chosen, you can reapply later! This process can be time-consuming, but don’t give up. The results can be worth it in the end!

To learn more, check out our step-by-step guide for applying for scholarships and tips for success.

Applying for grants

Receiving any kind of financial aid starts with completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Filling out a FAFSA at fafsa.gov is a requirement to qualify for federal funding, which includes Federal Pell Grants. To learn more, check out our guide to filling out a FAFSA.

If you’re considering attending UTI and need help with your FAFSA, we have a dedicated team here to assist you. Simply give us a call at 844-338-0032 or schedule an appointment with one of our Financial Aid Support Specialists online.

Read: How Universal Technical Institute Graduates Fit the Service King Way

Scholarships & Grants FAQs

1. Can I get financial aid if I am unemployed?

Yes, you can qualify for financial aid even if you are unemployed! Many grants and scholarships are designed specifically for individuals facing financial hardship, and your employment status will not automatically disqualify you from receiving assistance.

2. How do I go back to school if I have no money?

Going back to school without funds might seem daunting, but there are plenty of options to explore. Look into scholarships, grants and financial aid programs that cater to low-income students and consider applying for work-study opportunities to earn money while you learn. For more ideas, check out this guide: How To Pay for Trade School: 7 Methods.

3. Are there money grants for unemployed and low-income adults returning to college?

Absolutely! There are numerous money grants for unemployed and low-income adults returning to college, including those offered by federal and state governments, as well as private organizations. Be sure to explore your eligibility for these opportunities to help alleviate educational costs.

4. For which college grants do I qualify?

Your eligibility for college grants typically depends on factors such as income, residency and enrollment status. Completing the FAFSA can also help determine the grants you may qualify for, as this application is a key factor in accessing federal and state financial aid resources.

5. What documents are typically required when applying for education grants for low-income adults?

When applying for education grants, you will likely need to provide financial documents, such as tax returns and proof of income, along with personal identification and details about your educational background. Keeping these documents organized and ready can help simplify the application process!

6. Do I have to repay grants or scholarships? 

In most cases, grants and scholarships do not need to be repaid, making them a valuable form of financial aid. However, certain grants, such as some federal or state-funded options, may require repayment if you withdraw early from your program or fail to meet specific requirements. Your school’s financial aid office can explain the terms of any aid you receive.

7. Can I qualify for financial aid if I already have student loan debt? 

Yes, having existing student loan debt does not automatically disqualify you from receiving additional financial aid. You may still be eligible for scholarships, grants or even new loans depending on your financial situation and academic plans. It's important to fill out the FAFSA and speak with your school's financial aid office to explore your options.

Read: Train for a Career That’s In-Demand: Advice From a Diesel Employer

Scholarship or Grant Questions? Our Team is Here to Help

Every year, UTI offers scholarships and grants for unemployed and low-income students — available to students who qualify.¹⁰ If you want to get the funding you need, become a student at one of our campuses before applying for financial aid!

To learn more, request information online or call us at 1-800-834-7308 today. We’ll connect you with an Admissions Representative who can help you get started!

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