Tax-advantaged savings plan for future education expenses allowing NC residents to deduct contributions on state income taxes. Funds can be used for tuition, room and board, books, fees, and K-12 tuition at eligible schools. Accounts can be opened for any child or future student. Contributions grow tax-free when used for education. Call 1-800-600-3453 or visit nc529.org. Available as an online statewide resource. Open Mon-Fri 8am-6pm for account support and enrollment questions.
Education resources for fathers include financial aid, adult education, workforce training, and college programs with on-site childcare. FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the gateway to Pell Grants, Direct Loans, and state aid. Pell Grants provide up to approximately $7,000 per year to low-income students and don't require repayment. GED and HiSET programs operate in every state through adult education providers, often free. Community colleges offer lower-cost two-year degrees and certificate programs in high-demand trades. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds training for eligible adults and dislocated workers. For fathers returning to school, on-campus childcare (often subsidized through the CCAMPIS grant), emergency aid funds, and single-parent scholarships make enrollment feasible. This directory covers state FAFSA offices, community colleges, adult education programs, and single-dad scholarships.
College & Education in North Carolina
North Carolina district courts handle family matters in all 100 counties, with some counties having dedicated family court sessions. The Child Support Services Section operates under DHHS. Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Durham, and Winston-Salem are the largest metros. Legal Aid of North Carolina is the primary LSC-funded statewide civil legal aid program.
More College & Education in North Carolina
University of North Carolina System — 17 public universities including UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State, NC A&T, UNCG, and more offering affordable in-state tuition for NC residents wit
NC Community College System — 58 community colleges statewide offering affordable associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, and workforce training with many programs und
FAFSA / Federal Student Aid — Free Application for Federal Student Aid required for all federal and most state financial aid including Pell Grants, work-study, and subsid
NC GED / HiSET Testing Programs — Earn your high school equivalency diploma through GED or HiSET testing at NC community colleges. Free prep classes are available statewide t
What do I do first if I want to go back to school?
Fill out the FAFSA at studentaid.gov. It's free and takes about 30 minutes. Results determine eligibility for Pell Grants (up to ~$7,000/year), Direct Loans, and state grants. Apply even if you think you won't qualify — results often surprise.
Is there childcare on college campuses?
Many community colleges and some universities operate on-campus childcare, often subsidized through the CCAMPIS federal grant for low-income student parents. Financial aid can sometimes cover childcare as a cost of attendance.
Can I get a GED online?
Yes. The official GED test is offered online (with in-home proctoring) and at testing centers. HiSET (used in some states instead of GED) is similar. Free prep through state adult education providers and through Khan Academy's free GED prep.
What is WIOA training?
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funds short-term training for eligible adults, often up to
0,000 or more for in-demand occupations. Apply through your local American Job Center. Programs cover CDL, welding, nursing, IT, HVAC, and many others.