Women's Education Coalition Grant 2026

The Women’s Education Coalition Grant is a multiyear scholarship that helps women who are unemployed or struggling to support themselves and their families. This scholarship supports tuition, college expenses, and helps build a better future for you and your family. It’s your opportunity to get the education you need to become financially independent! 

This fund is a cooperative venture of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Kalamazoo Network and the YWCA of Kalamazoo.

Important Notes:

• In order to have the best application experience, please complete this application on a desktop computer, laptop or tablet - we do not recommend you use your phone.

• You can click save and exit the application at any time without losing your progress - feel free to take breaks whenever you need. Just be sure to submit once you're done!

• Please complete the FAFSA before starting your General Scholarship application - we will ask for your Student Aid Index (SAI).

Here's what you can expect to share in the application:

• Basic information about you, your education, and involvement in your community

• Three self-reflection prompts

• Financial information questions

Who is eligible? 

• Women living in Kalamazoo, Barry, Calhoun, Allegan, St. Joseph, or Van Buren County 

• Must have had a significant break in their education 

• Must show how continuing their education after high school will help them achieve financial independence 

• Must be enrolled or planning to enroll in: 

  • A professional development program 

  • A trade, technology, or vocational program 

  • A certificate program 

  • An associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree program 

• Can be enrolled part-time or full-time  

• Preference is given to underemployed working mothers and first-time degree seekers

• Preference is also given to students attending not-for-profit schools 

How can the grant be used?

Grants may be used to pay for tuition, fees, books, childcare, transportation and other educational needs for graduate, undergraduate, certificate and professional development educational programs. In most cases, the grant dollars will be issued directly to the educational institution.

Is there a maximum or minimum award?

No. Awards are given based on the need of the grant recipient. If unforeseen circumstances arise after the award has been determined in any given year, applicants may notify the Kalamazoo Community Foundation Scholarships team, which may recommend an additional award. Grant recipients may apply to renew their awards as long as they are in good standing at their institution.