Need help building your skills during these tough financial times? The AARP Foundation’s Women’s Scholarship Program provides scholarship funds to women 40+ seeking new job skills, training, and educational opportunities to support themselves and their families.

The AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship Program is available to eligible individuals with moderate to lower incomes and limited financial resources.  The application deadline is March 31 at 5 p.m. (CST).

Scholarship awards range from $500 to $5,000, depending on financial need and the cost of the education or training program.

To be eligible for the scholarships, applicants must be:

• Women age 40 or over
• Able to demonstrate financial need
• Enrolled in an accredited school or technical program within 6 months of the scholarship award date.

According to the AARP Foundation, past scholarship winners have been a diverse group, comprising African American, Hispanic, Native American and white women ranging in age from 40 into their 60s. Winners come from cities, towns, and rural areas – from north, south, east and west in the continental U.S. and from Alaska and Hawaii.

Scholarships may be used for any course of study at a public or private secondary school, including community colleges, technical schools, and four-year universities.  Funds are payable to the institution and may be used to pay for tuition, fees, and books. Part-time students may also apply.

The program application may only be submitted on-line. For more information, view Frequently Asked Questions or take this Quiz to find out if you are eligible.