Balancing school and parenting can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding affordable childcare. For student parents, the high cost of daycare can make pursuing an education feel out of reach. The good news? There are free and low-cost childcare options available to help you focus on your studies without breaking the bank. Learn how to access childcare assistance through government programs, campus resources, and community support.

1. Government-Supported Childcare Programs

Federal and state programs provide subsidized or free childcare for low-income families, including student parents. These programs can significantly reduce costs and provide access to quality childcare services.

📌 Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF)
The CCDF helps low-income families pay for childcare while parents work or attend school. Each state administers the program differently, but eligible families typically receive vouchers or direct subsidies for approved daycare providers.

How to apply:
✔ Check your state’s CCDF office via ChildCare.gov.
✔ Provide proof of income, school enrollment, and childcare needs.
✔ If approved, choose a licensed childcare provider that accepts CCDF subsidies.

📌 Head Start and Early Head Start
These federally funded programs provide free childcare and preschool education for low-income families with children ages 0-5. They offer:
✔ Full-day or part-time care options
✔ Educational activities
✔ Meals and healthcare screenings

How to apply:
✔ Visit Benefits.gov to check eligibility.
✔ Apply through a local Head Start center.

📌 State-Funded Childcare Assistance Programs
Many states offer additional childcare subsidies beyond federal programs. Some states also provide on-campus childcare grants specifically for student parents.

How to apply:
✔ Contact your state’s Department of Social Services.
✔ Check local nonprofits that distribute childcare assistance funds.

2. On-Campus Childcare Services

Many colleges and universities offer affordable childcare centers for student parents. These centers often provide flexible schedules and discounted rates compared to private daycare.

📌 Campus Childcare Centers
✔ Many schools have licensed daycare centers with reduced rates for students.
✔ Some offer priority enrollment for student parents.
✔ Others may provide evening or weekend childcare to accommodate class schedules.

📌 Childcare Stipends and Grants for Student Parents
Some colleges offer childcare grants to help cover daycare costs. These may be funded by:
✔ The Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) Program, a federal grant that provides funding for student parents.
✔ University-specific scholarships for student parents.

How to apply:
✔ Check with your school’s financial aid office or student services department.
✔ Ask about CCAMPIS funding or childcare scholarships.

3. Community-Based Childcare Options

In addition to government and campus programs, there are community-based resources that provide affordable childcare.

📌 YMCA and Nonprofit Childcare Programs
✔ Many YMCAs, Boys & Girls Clubs, and local nonprofits offer discounted childcare.
✔ Some churches and religious organizations provide low-cost or free daycare.

📌 Childcare Co-Ops
✔ Parent-run childcare co-ops allow student parents to trade babysitting services instead of paying for daycare.
✔ These can be found through local parenting groups, Facebook communities, or school bulletin boards.

📌 Nanny Shares and Home-Based Daycares
✔ Sharing a nanny with another family can reduce costs.
✔ Home-based daycare providers often charge less than large daycare centers.

4. Additional Financial Aid for Childcare

Student parents may qualify for additional financial aid to help cover childcare expenses.

📌 Pell Grants and Student Loans
✔ While Pell Grants can’t be directly used for childcare, they help cover other expenses, freeing up money for daycare.
✔ Some student loans allow funds to be used for dependent care.

📌 Employer and Military Childcare Assistance
✔ Some employers offer childcare reimbursement benefits.
✔ Military families can apply for Child Care Aware of America subsidies.

Final Thoughts: Affordable Childcare Is Within Reach

Being a student parent is tough, but affordable childcare options can help you stay in school without worrying about high costs. From government programs to on-campus daycare and community resources, there are plenty of ways to find low-cost or free childcare while you study. Explore your options, apply for assistance, and take advantage of every resource available—you deserve the support to succeed!

Related Content

Scholarships for Career Changers: Financial Aid for a Fresh Start

Switching careers is a bold and exciting step, but going back to school for a new degree or certification can be expensive. Fortunately, many scholarships are designed specifically for adults who are making a career transition. Whether you're moving from one industry...

How Internships Can Help You Get Ahead in Your Career

Landing your dream job often requires more than just a degree—real-world experience is key. That’s where internships come in. Whether paid or unpaid, internships provide valuable skills, networking opportunities, and hands-on experience that can give you a competitive...

The Ultimate Guide to College Applications

Applying to college can feel overwhelming, but breaking the process into manageable steps makes it much easier. Get step-by-step advice to craft a standout application, from choosing the right schools to nailing your personal statement. Start with Self-Reflection...

How to Build a Strong Resume in High School

Your high school resume is your ticket to showcasing your unique skills and achievements to colleges, scholarships, and potential employers. Set yourself apart by learning how to craft a standout resume that reflects your strengths and potential. Why a Resume Matters...

The Best Websites for Finding Scholarships

Searching for scholarships can feel overwhelming, but the right websites can make the process much easier. Instead of manually sifting through hundreds of programs, scholarship search engines allow you to filter by eligibility, deadlines, and award amounts. Whether...

Making the Most of Your Scholarships: A Guide to Maximizing Your Benefits

Winning a scholarship is an incredible achievement, but it’s just the beginning. Once you’ve secured funding, it’s essential to use it wisely and strategically. Learn how to stretch your scholarship dollars, stay eligible, and make the most of this opportunity for a...

Scholarship Application Mistakes to Avoid

Applying for scholarships is one of the best ways to reduce college costs, but even the most qualified students can lose out on funding due to simple mistakes. A strong application can mean the difference between winning free money for school or missing out on...

Balancing Family, Work, and Education: Time Management Tips for Adult Learners

Going back to school as an adult can be rewarding, but it also comes with challenges—especially if you’re juggling family, a full-time job, and coursework. Finding time for everything without feeling overwhelmed is possible with the right strategies. Learn how to...

How to Choose the Right College for Your Needs

Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, and it’s not just about academics. Explore factors like cost, location, programs, and campus culture to find the best fit for your goals. Start with Self-Reflection Before diving into college...

Resources for Students with Disabilities: How to Get the Support You Need

College can be both exciting and challenging, but students with disabilities often face additional obstacles when it comes to accessibility, financial aid, and campus resources. The good news? There are scholarships, grants, and support services designed to help...

Check out these scholarships:

Russell Wilson’s Why Not You Scholarship

The Why Not You Scholarship program is in partnership with the College Success Foundation. Four students were awarded $20,000 ($5,000 annually, towards a four-year university), and four students were awarded $5,000 ($2,500 annually, towards a community college or...

Princeton Prize in Race Relations

The Princeton Prize in Race Relations recognizes and rewards high school students who have had a significant positive effect on race relations in their schools or communities through their volunteer efforts.Scholarship Sponsor Princeton UniversityAward Type $1,000...

Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grants

Created by the Mississippi Legislature, this program is designed to provide financial assistance to Mississippi residents attending state approved public and private not-for-profit two-year and four-year eligible colleges and universities. The primary objective of...

Hopwood Scholarship

The Hopwood Scholarship is available to full-time entering freshmen at Lynchburg College.Scholarship Sponsor University of LynchburgAward Type $22,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: USA Criteria / Requirements: You must have...

CSUB Richard K. Leffingwell Scholarship

The CSUB Richard K. Leffingwell Scholarship was established to provide opportunities to foster the next generation of students who wish to be involved in nonprofits or public service.Scholarship Sponsor California State UniversityAward Type $3,000 CashGender...

Women Techmakers Scholars Program

Through the Women Techmakers Scholars Program - formerly the Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship Program - Google is furthering Dr. Anita Borg's vision of creating gender equality in the tech industry by encouraging women to excel as active participants and leaders...

Samsung@First Scholars

The Samsung@First Scholars's goal is to support those outstanding scientists, technologists, engineers, and mathematicians who will lead the world for the next 30 years and beyond. Scholarship Sponsor Silicone Valley Community FoundationAward Type $15,000 CashGender...

Military Scholarship

Optimal is awarding $5,000 need-based scholarships to active military and veteran students.Scholarship Sponsor OptimalAward Type $5,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: Legal residents of the United States (excluding Rhode...

Diversity Leadership Project Scholarship

Diversity Leadership Project is a national organization dedicated to bringing the voices of high school students to the forefront on issues of diversity, racism, and inclusion, as well as other related issues teens face today. Our blog offers a place where the most...

Nam Knights of America MC – Dellaware Valley Chapter

The Delaware Valley Chapter of the Nam Knights Motorcycle Club established the Nam Knights M/C Memorial Scholarship to honor the memory of fallen military veterans and law enforcement officers, who have made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. The scholarship...

The AIEF Undergraduate Scholarship Program

The American Indian Education Fund Undergraduate Scholarship service supports educational opportunities for American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian students. Scholarship Sponsor The American Indian Education Fund Award Type $2000 CashGender Eligibility...

Jake Brandon Harris Scholarship

One $1,500 Jake Brandon Harris Scholarship will be awarded to a deserving student.Scholarship Sponsor In Memory of Jake Brandon HarrisAward Type $1,500 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: USA Criteria / Requirements: Applicants...

The Chief Petty Officer Scholarship Fund

American States Utility Services, Inc. and its wholly-owned Subsidiaries (ASUS, Inc.) has established a scholarship program to assist dependent children of active, full-time U.S. military members and dependent children of honorably discharged veterans Scholarship...

Missouri Bankers Foundation Scholarship Program

The Missouri Bankers Foundation Scholarship Program is designed for graduating Missouri high school seniors who plan to pursue college studies in banking-related degree programs.Scholarship Sponsor Missouri Banks AssociationAward Type $1,000 CashGender Eligibility...

Irene and Daisy MacGregor Memorial Scholarship

The Irene and Daisy MacGregor Memorial Scholarship is awarded to two students of high scholastic standing and character who have been accepted into or are pursuing an approved course of study to become a medical doctor (no pre-med, veterinarian or physician assistant)...
Skip to content