The loss of a spouse is an emotionally devastating event. In addition to the sorrow, many widows face significant financial challenges, especially those with children or who are seeking further education. Thankfully, numerous organizations understand these struggles and offer fully funded scholarships to help widows achieve their academic goals.
This blog post explores three of these organizations: the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards, the Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation for Low-Income Women and Children, and the Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund.
Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards
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Soroptimist International, an organization committed to improving the lives of women and girls, provides the annual Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards. This scholarship program specifically aids women who shoulder the primary financial responsibility for their families, which includes many widows. The overarching goal of these awards is to empower these women, allowing them to advance their education, boost their skills, and in turn, improve the lives of their families.
Who is eligible?
- Women who are the primary financial providers for their families.
- Facing significant financial need.
- Pursuing or planning to pursue education or training to improve their employment prospects.
- Residents of a Soroptimist International of the Americas region (locations throughout the Americas).
What kind of educational/training pursuits are supported?
- Wide range of options, including:
- Vocational training certificates
- Associate’s degrees
- Bachelor’s degrees
- Professional certifications
- Trade school programs
Thus, the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards is more than just a scholarship program. It provides a holistic support system for women dealing with financial challenges, empowering them to build a brighter future for themselves and their families.
Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation for Low-Income Women and Children
The Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation for Low-Income Women and Children embodies the spirit and legacy of Patsy Takemoto Mink, the first woman of color elected to the U.S. Congress. Striving to assist low-income women, particularly mothers, this foundation presents five scholarships annually, each offering up to $5,000. To qualify, women need to be at least 17 years old, be a mother, and be involved in a skills training, ESL, or GED program. Alternatively, they could be pursuing a degree at an accredited institution.
Who is not eligible:
- Men.
- Women without minor children.
- Individuals pursuing a second bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Individuals not attending an accredited institution in the U.S.
- Individuals exceeding the low-income threshold based on family size.
How to Apply:
Applications for the Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation scholarships typically open in May of each year. The 2024-25 application information is not yet available, but here’s what you can expect based on the previous year:
- Check the Foundation website: Regularly visit https://www.patsyminkfoundation.org/: https://www.patsyminkfoundation.org/ for updates on the application opening date and deadlines.
- Review the requirements: Carefully read through the eligibility criteria and ensure you meet all conditions before applying.
- Prepare your application materials: When applications open, gather all required documents, including:
- Application form.
- Official transcripts.
- Student Aid Report (SAR).
- Proof of admission (if already accepted into a program).
- Tuition statement.
- Personal statement.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Submit your application online: The foundation uses an online application system. Follow the instructions and submit your complete application before the deadline.
Beyond the financial aid, the foundation also connects recipients with a supportive network of past awardees. This community of women, many of whom have experienced similar challenges, can offer a wealth of advice, encouragement, and camaraderie.
Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
Named for the first female member of Congress, the Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund has made it its mission to assist women aged 35 and older who seek to enhance their lives and career prospects through further education. This scholarship program, in particular, advocates for low-income women, making it a suitable opportunity for widows who face financial constraints.
Eligibility:
- Identify as a woman or non-binary.
- Be at least 35 years old as of the application deadline.
- Be a US citizen or permanent resident.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Be pursuing your first associate’s or bachelor’s degree at an accredited US institution.
- Not enrolled in a full-time degree program for at least a year prior to applying.
Who is not eligible:
- Students pursuing a second bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Individuals enrolled in professional or certificate programs.
- Students enrolled in full-time programs before the application deadline.
How to Apply:
Applications typically open in October of each year. The current application cycle for the 2024-2025 academic year is closed. Stay informed for the next opening by:
- Visiting their website: Check regularly for updates on the Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund website: https://rankinfoundation.org/.
- Subscribing to their email list: Sign up on their website to receive notifications about applications and deadlines.
Ultimately, the Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund is a significant resource for widows who have the desire to pursue further education. Its commitment to empowering women through education ensures that these women are not just financially supported, but also emotionally motivated and intellectually stimulated, paving the way for their future success.
Read Also: Fully Funded Scholarships For Short Structured Students
FAQS
How do you get a 100% scholarship?
Achieving a 100% scholarship typically involves excelling academically, demonstrating exceptional talent or leadership, and meeting the specific criteria set by scholarship providers. This may include maintaining a high GPA, participating in extracurricular activities, and submitting strong application materials.
Which fully funded scholarship is easiest to get?
The ease of obtaining a fully funded scholarship varies based on factors such as eligibility criteria, competition level, and available funding. Some scholarships may have less stringent requirements or fewer applicants, making them relatively easier to obtain.
Which country gives full free scholarship?
Several countries offer full free scholarships to international students, including Germany, Norway, Finland, and Sweden. These scholarships often cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes even travel costs.
Do scholarships pay for flights?
Some scholarships may include funding for flights or travel expenses, especially for international students studying abroad. However, not all scholarships cover travel costs, so it’s essential to check the scholarship terms and conditions carefully.
Which university in the UK offers 100% scholarship?
Many universities in the UK offer scholarships that cover full tuition fees or provide substantial financial support to students. Examples include the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, and London School of Economics. However, eligibility criteria and availability of 100% scholarships may vary by institution and program
Conclusion
While the journey may be fraught with challenges, widows seeking to further their education should take heart. There is substantial support available, both in terms of financial aid and community-building. With perseverance, determination, and the assistance of these scholarships, widows can forge new paths, open up new opportunities, and work towards a brighter future for themselves and their families. The resilience and determination displayed by these women are commendable, and these scholarships are a testament to society’s recognition and support of their educational endeavors.
