Pregnant Students' University Admissions: A Complex Issue

Becoming a parent while pursuing a college degree can be challenging, and many students choose not to continue their pregnancies. However, it is important to know that universities are set up to support pregnant students and new parents. In the US, 1/4 of college students are parents, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits universities that receive federal funding from discriminating based on sex, including pregnancy and parental status. This means that universities must excuse absences for pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions, and allow students to return to their studies without penalty. Additionally, universities must provide pregnant students with reasonable academic adjustments, such as access to online classes or extensions on deadlines. Pregnant students may also be eligible for financial support and have access to campus health and childcare services.

What are the rights of pregnant students?

In the United States, pregnant students have rights under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex—including pregnancy and parental status—in educational programs and activities. Title IX applies to all public and private schools, school districts, colleges, and universities receiving federal funding.

Classes and School Activities

Schools must allow pregnant students to continue participating in classes and extracurricular activities. This includes advanced placement and honors classes, school clubs, sports, honor societies, student leadership opportunities, and after-school programs. Schools cannot require pregnant students to participate in special instructional programs or classes for pregnant students; participation must be voluntary. Schools must also provide reasonable adjustments, such as larger desks, elevator access, or frequent trips to the restroom, when necessary due to pregnancy.

Excused Absences and Medical Leave

Schools must excuse absences due to pregnancy or childbirth for as long as a doctor deems it necessary. Upon returning from medical leave, students must be allowed to resume their previous academic and extracurricular activities and make up any missed work. Teachers cannot refuse to allow students to submit work after a deadline missed due to pregnancy or childbirth. If class participation or attendance is a factor in grading, students must be given the opportunity to make up any credits missed due to pregnancy-related absences. Schools must also provide pregnant students with the same special services provided to students with temporary medical conditions, such as homebound instruction, at-home tutoring, or independent study.

Harassment

Schools are required to protect pregnant students from harassment based on sex, including harassment due to pregnancy or related conditions. This includes sexual comments or jokes about pregnancy, sexual propositions or gestures, and spreading rumors about sexual activity. If such harassment interferes with a student's ability to participate in or benefit from the school's program, it is considered prohibited harassment.

Policies and Procedures

Schools must have and distribute a policy against sex discrimination, including discrimination against pregnant and parenting students. They must also adopt and publish grievance procedures for students to file complaints of sex discrimination, including discrimination related to pregnancy or parental status. Schools must designate a Title IX Coordinator to oversee complaints of discrimination against pregnant and parenting students and ensure that all students and employees are aware of the coordinator's name, title, and contact information.

In addition to the protections provided by Title IX, pregnant students may also have additional rights under state law. It is important for pregnant students to be aware of their rights and to seek support from their school's Title IX Coordinator or other resources to ensure that their rights are protected.

What financial support is available for pregnant students?

Financial support is available for pregnant students in the form of government programs, grants, and non-profit organizations.

Government Programs

The US government provides several programs to assist pregnant women financially. These include:

• Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program: This program offers nutritional food, education, and screening services to low-income pregnant women. It also provides vouchers or electronic cards to purchase specific foods such as infant formula, fruits, vegetables, and other healthy items.
• Medicaid: A state-administered program that provides important health services during pregnancy. Eligibility requirements vary from state to state.
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): This program offers temporary financial assistance to pregnant women with no resources, helping them with expenses such as food, clothing, housing, utilities, and medical supplies.
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Formerly known as the food stamp program, SNAP provides low-income or no-income families with debit cards to purchase groceries.
• Maternity Group Homes (MGH) Program: Run by the US Department of Health & Human Services, this program supports homeless pregnant and/or parenting youth between the ages of 16 and 22, as well as their dependent children.
• Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8): This program assists low-income earners with rental expenses. HUD will pay a housing subsidy directly to the landlord on behalf of the family.
• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This program helps low-income families with their energy bills.

Grants

There are various grants available to pregnant women, although the federal government rarely provides money directly to individuals. Some grants to consider include:

• Pregnancy Assistance Grant: This grant is no longer available, but former grantees may still be offering assistance.
• Pell Grant: Pregnant students may qualify for a Pell Grant, as their expected family contribution may be lower.
• Internal Revenue Service Grants: The IRS offers tax deductions and savings for various maternity-related expenses.

Non-Profit Organizations

Several non-profit and faith-based organizations provide financial support to pregnant women, including:

• Pregnancy Resource Centers: These centers offer counseling, medical services, and help in securing local financial resources.
• Catholic Charities: This organization assists women with unplanned pregnancies through pregnancy counseling and adoption services.
• Adoption Agencies: Financial assistance may be available from the adoptive parents or the agency itself if considering placing the baby for adoption.
• Socialserve: A bilingual call center that provides assistance.
• Covenant House, The Salvation Army, After Hours Ministry, Home-Start, Precious Life Shelter, Saint Ann’s, Birth Haven, Bright Hope Centers: These organizations offer various forms of support to pregnant women, including housing assistance and counseling.

Additionally, pregnant students can explore options such as crowdfunding through platforms like GoFundMe, which can provide quick financial relief. They can also look into scholarships and daycare grants offered by their educational institutions or states.

What are the healthcare options for pregnant students?

Pregnant students have a variety of healthcare options available to them, depending on their location, financial situation, and personal preferences. Here is a detailed overview of the healthcare options for pregnant students:

On-Campus Health Services:

Some colleges and universities offer on-campus reproductive health services, which can be a convenient option for students. These services can vary significantly depending on the state and institution. For example, in California, abortion access is guaranteed on campus at all public colleges and universities under Senate Bill 24. In contrast, Texas has Senate Bill 8, which bans abortion after six weeks and offers financial incentives for reporting on those who provide access to abortion care. Thus, it is essential to understand the specific services and limitations offered by your institution.

Student Health Insurance Plans:

Many colleges and universities offer student health insurance plans, which can provide basic insurance coverage at affordable rates. These plans can vary in terms of the benefits offered, so it is important to review the details of the plan before enrolling. Even with a student health plan, students can still apply for additional coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Health Insurance Marketplace:

The Health Insurance Marketplace offers a range of plans that can be purchased directly by individuals. These plans are required to cover at least ten essential health benefits, including pregnancy and newborn care. When buying a plan through the Marketplace, individuals may qualify for lower costs based on their income, family size, and location. It is important to note that a special enrollment period is available for individuals who have recently given birth, but pregnancy alone does not qualify for this special period.

Medicaid:

Medicaid provides free or low-cost health coverage for millions of Americans, including pregnant women, and is available to those who meet certain income and citizenship requirements. Each state has different rules and benefits, but all Marketplace and Medicaid plans cover pregnancy and childbirth, even if the pregnancy begins before coverage starts. Additionally, Medicaid typically covers prenatal doctor visits, labor, delivery, and baby check-ups. Pregnant individuals can apply for Medicaid at any time, not just during the annual Open Enrollment Period.

Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP):

The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) offers coverage for children under 19 years old, and in many states, pregnant women also qualify. CHIP is designed for low-income households and provides similar coverage to Medicaid. Pregnant individuals who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford an Affordable Care Act (ACA) plan may find CHIP to be a suitable option.

Employer-Provided Coverage:

If a student or their spouse has health insurance through their employer, this can be an option for covering pregnancy-related expenses. Typically, employer-provided coverage is the simplest and most cost-effective option, as the employer often subsidizes a portion of the monthly premium. It is important to review the specific benefits offered by the plan, as some may not cover the delivery or the newborn's care.

Supplemental Insurance for Pregnancy:

Pregnant individuals may also consider supplemental maternity coverage, such as short-term disability insurance or hospital indemnity plans. These policies pay the individual directly rather than the healthcare provider and can help cover additional expenses during pregnancy, maternity leave, or hospital stays. However, these policies typically need to be purchased before becoming pregnant.

It is important to remember that under Title IX, pregnant students are protected against discrimination on college campuses. Schools must allow for excused absences or medical leave related to pregnancy or childbirth and protect students from harassment. Additionally, pregnant students should be offered the same services as those with temporary medical conditions, such as remote instruction or at-home tutoring.

What are the childcare options for pregnant students?

As a pregnant student, you have several childcare options available to you. Firstly, it is important to note that under Title IX, students who are pregnant or parenting are protected against discrimination on college campuses. This means that your right to continue your education while pregnant or as a parent is guaranteed by law.

Now, let's explore some specific childcare options:

On-Campus Childcare

Some colleges and universities offer on-campus childcare services, which can often be accessed at a discounted rate for students. According to BestColleges, only about half of public two-year and four-year institutions offer on-campus childcare, and less than 10% of private institutions have campus childcare centers. So, this option may be limited depending on your specific institution.

Government Childcare Financial Assistance

The US government provides financial assistance for childcare through various programs. Child Care Aware of America is a non-profit organization that can help student parents receive discounted care or reduce costs through government subsidies. You can also look into government childcare vouchers, certificates, or subsidies, which are available to families with low incomes so that they can work or attend school. Check your specific state or territory's website for more information on eligibility and application processes.

Head Start and Early Head Start Programs

Head Start and Early Head Start programs are available at no cost to eligible families with low incomes. These programs support children from birth to age five, preparing them for school and providing services for their early learning, development, mental well-being, and physical health.

Prekindergarten Programs

State-funded prekindergarten programs are available in some states for children between the ages of three and five. These programs may be offered at low or no cost, and they focus on helping children get ready for kindergarten.

Military Child Care Financial Assistance

If you are a member of the military or a military family, there are specific programs that provide financial assistance for childcare, regardless of where you are stationed.

Local Assistance and Scholarships

Local non-profit organizations and individual childcare providers may offer fee assistance or scholarships. It is worth reaching out to providers in your area to inquire about any available financial support.

Sibling Discounts

If you have multiple children, some childcare programs offer sibling discounts, which can reduce the overall cost of childcare for your family.

Employer-Sponsored Dependent Care

If you are employed, check with your employer about the possibility of a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA). This allows you to set aside a portion of each paycheck to pay for childcare services while you work, and it can provide tax benefits.

Informal In-Home Child Care

If you prefer a more informal arrangement, you can explore in-home childcare options, such as hiring a nanny or babysitter, or arranging care with family members or friends.

Remember, it is essential to carefully consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a childcare option. Factors such as the size of the program, the environment (home vs classroom), and the hours of availability will play a significant role in your decision. Additionally, don't hesitate to reach out to your institution's support services for guidance and information on any available resources or financial assistance programs.

What are the housing options for pregnant students?

In the past, universities have had little to no policies in place to support the rights of pregnant and parenting students on campus. However, in 1972, Title IX was passed to help curtail sex discrimination, including discrimination against pregnant women. Title IX ensures that schools and universities that receive federal funding cannot discriminate against pregnant and/or parenting students. This means that schools must allow pregnant students to keep their current housing through their pregnancy and cannot be forced to move off-campus.

After giving birth, however, students may be asked to find family-friendly housing. If your college does not offer family housing, or if it is too expensive, there are a few options to consider:

• Real estate agents can help you find affordable housing near your school.
• The Single Parent Alliance of America may be able to connect you to affordable and safe housing in your area.
• CoAbode offers a service that allows you to explore sharing housing with another single mother.
• Pregnancy resource centers may know of families who may be open to providing housing and can connect you with other resources.
• Organizations such as Birthright International, Care Net, and The Gabriel Project can refer you to safe and affordable housing in your area.

Additionally, it is important to consider your safety and budget when looking for off-campus housing. Consult the housing director on campus for recommendations on safe areas to live and always visit an apartment before renting it to ensure it has the necessary security features. If possible, consider getting a roommate to help bring down living expenses and potentially trade household duties and/or costs for babysitting. Finally, consider how you will get to campus and budget for any transportation costs if needed.

Frequently asked questions