Pregnant in college?
Finding out you’re pregnant while in college can be an overwhelming and scary experience. You may wonder if you have to choose between your education and your baby. Women’s Care Mary’s Center is here to help you navigate your next steps. You have more options than you think. Take a deep breath.
Pregnant college students are protected under law: your needs must be accommodated by your educational institution under federal law. Additionally, there are countless financial aid resources available to you and daycare options in Baltimore for university students.
Rights of Pregnant Women
Federal law is on your side: under Title IX, your educational institution must accommodate your needs while pregnant. And you aren’t alone: there are currently 3 million undergrads in the US studying while raising kids. Learn about Title IX here.
Under Title IX:
- you cannot lose your scholarship (including athletic scholarships)
- you cannot be discriminated against because of pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, or pregnancy recovery
- the law against discrimination extends not only to your classes but also to school extracurriculars & internships, athletics, scholarships, labs, and clinical work
- the law requires that you are allowed to take off as much time as medically necessary without being penalized in any way
- your educational institution is required to accommodate your needs, such as, but not limited to:
- breaks during class
- parking accommodations
- online coursework
- extended deadlines
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Pregnant Women & Mothers
If you currently receive scholarships or loans through FAFSA, it is likely that your pregnancy will make you eligible for more aid. Make an appointment with us for help.
There are many scholarship resources available to pregnant and parenting students.
Additionally, you can apply for WIC, Medicaid, TANF, SNAP, and other government programs. Click here for more info on financial help for pregnant women. Apply for assistance in Maryland here or come in for an appointment to get help applying.
Childcare
Worried about childcare? Learn about the resources available to parents who are pursuing their education in Maryland. Click here to apply for the Maryland Childcare Scholarship.
Many schools provide childcare for students who are parents. Talk to your educational institution about childcare opportunities.
Next Steps
Don’t give up on your baby, and don’t give up on your education. You are stronger than you think you are. We believe in you. Schedule an appointment with us and we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, and accompany you the whole way through, even after the birth of your child.