Losing a parent is a devastating experience that can have a profound impact on a person’s life. Not only does it bring emotional turmoil, but it can also create financial challenges, especially when it comes to pursuing higher education. With the rising costs of tuition and living expenses, many students rely on scholarships to make their dreams of a college education a reality. But can a student who has lost a parent also receive a scholarship? In this article, we will explore the options available for students who have lost a parent and the steps they can take to secure financial aid for their education.
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The Impact of Losing a Parent on Education
The loss of a parent can have a significant impact on a student’s academic performance. According to a study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, children who have lost a parent are more likely to experience academic difficulties, such as lower grades and higher rates of absenteeism. This can be attributed to the emotional distress and financial strain that comes with losing a parent.
Furthermore, the death of a parent can also disrupt a student’s plans for higher education. Many students rely on their parents’ financial support to pay for college, and without it, they may have to put their education on hold or take on significant amounts of debt. This can be a daunting prospect for students who are already dealing with the loss of a loved one.
Read:How Are grants and scholarships different from student loans?Scholarships for Students with a Deceased Parent
Despite the challenges that come with losing a parent, there are scholarships available specifically for students who have experienced this loss. These scholarships aim to provide financial assistance to students who have lost a parent and help them achieve their educational goals. Here are some examples of scholarships for students with a deceased parent:
1. The Life Lessons Scholarship Program
The Life Lessons Scholarship Program is offered by the Life Happens organization and is open to students who have lost a parent or guardian. The scholarship awards up to $15,000 to help cover the costs of tuition, books, and other educational expenses. To be eligible, students must be between the ages of 17 and 24 and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
2. The Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation Scholarship
The Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation Scholarship is available to students who have lost a parent in the line of duty while serving in the military. The scholarship covers up to 50% of a student’s college expenses, including tuition, room and board, and books. To be eligible, students must be under the age of 26 and have a minimum GPA of 2.0.
Read:Can colleges pull athletic scholarships?3. The American Legion Legacy Scholarship
The American Legion Legacy Scholarship is open to students who have lost a parent while serving in the military since September 11, 2001. The scholarship provides up to $20,000 for undergraduate studies and up to $2,500 for graduate studies. To be eligible, students must be under the age of 23 and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Other Financial Aid Options for Students with a Deceased Parent
In addition to scholarships, there are other forms of financial aid available for students who have lost a parent. These include grants, loans, and work-study programs. Here are some options that students can explore:
1. Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant is a need-based grant that is available to undergraduate students. It does not have to be repaid and can provide up to $6,345 for the 2020-2021 academic year. To be eligible, students must demonstrate financial need and be enrolled in an eligible degree or certificate program.
2. Federal Work-Study Program
The Federal Work-Study Program provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need. These jobs can be on or off-campus and can help students cover their educational expenses. To be eligible, students must demonstrate financial need and be enrolled in an eligible degree or certificate program.
Read:How to find local scholarships?3. Federal Direct Loans
Federal Direct Loans are low-interest loans available to undergraduate and graduate students. These loans are offered by the U.S. Department of Education and must be repaid with interest. To be eligible, students must be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible degree or certificate program.
Steps to Secure Financial Aid for Students with a Deceased Parent
Securing financial aid can be a daunting process, especially for students who have lost a parent. Here are some steps that students can take to increase their chances of receiving financial aid:
1. Fill out the FAFSA
The first step in securing financial aid is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form is used to determine a student’s eligibility for federal and state financial aid programs. It is important to fill out the FAFSA as soon as possible, as some aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
2. Research Scholarships and Grants
As mentioned earlier, there are scholarships and grants available specifically for students who have lost a parent. It is essential to research and apply for these opportunities to increase the chances of receiving financial aid. Students can also look for other scholarships and grants that they may be eligible for based on their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, or personal circumstances.
3. Seek Financial Aid Counseling
Many colleges and universities have financial aid counselors who can provide guidance and assistance to students in need. These counselors can help students navigate the financial aid process and identify additional resources that may be available to them.
4. Consider Student Loans
If scholarships, grants, and work-study programs are not enough to cover the costs of education, students may need to consider taking out student loans. It is important to carefully consider the terms and conditions of the loans and only borrow what is necessary to avoid excessive debt.
Conclusion:
The loss of a parent can be a challenging and emotional experience, but it should not hinder a student’s pursuit of higher education. There are various scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid available to help students who have lost a parent achieve their educational goals. By taking the necessary steps and seeking assistance, students can secure the financial aid they need to make their dreams of a college education a reality.
