Navigating the college admissions process with a baby on the way? Let's dive into your concerns and answer some important questions. Facing an unplanned pregnancy is nerve-wracking, and so is starting college. Going through both of these challenges at the same time can cause some unique worries.
If you've been anticipating college and now find yourself unexpectedly pregnant, you're likely grappling with a bunch of questions. If you haven’t applied yet, you might wonder if you still should. Do colleges accept applications from pregnant students? And if you have already applied, you might wonder whether colleges can reject your application because of your pregnancy. Luckily, there are protections in place for pregnant students (and students-to-be) that prevent discrimination based on sex. Title IX is a US federal law that states: “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance[.]” Discrimination based on pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions would be discrimination based on sex. Can schools reject me because I’m pregnant? In most cases, it’s illegal to reject an application due to pregnancy, and it’s not something that students need to worry about. However, some private schools do not accept federal funding, and in those cases, they may not have to abide by Title IX. Some private schools are also affiliated with religious organizations and may have policies regarding pregnancy. If I already have an offer can they rescind it? Yes, colleges can revoke their offer. However, generally they cannot revoke their offers on the basis of pregnancy, as this would be a violation of Title IX law. Common reasons why schools may reject a student include:
Can I lose my scholarships because I got pregnant? We have good news! Pregnancy may qualify you for additional scholarships. There are many people and organizations who want to see moms pursue their educational dreams and build amazing careers, and they’re here to support you financially while you do it. In addition to qualifying you for scholarships specifically for mothers, pregnancy may also increase the amount of financial aid you’re eligible for. Be sure to reach out to your financial aid office to learn more. Can I live in dorms if I’m pregnant? Yes, you can live in dorms while you’re pregnant. Title IX protects your right to housing, and you cannot be discriminated against on the basis of sex. However, most students will be asked to find family-friendly housing after the birth of a child. If you attend a college that requires on-campus housing, you have some options. Your college may offer family-friendly housing on campus, or they may provide you with a waiver to allow you to live off-campus. What if I applied, but changed my mind about going to college? Can I defer? If you’re not ready to go to college yet, you can request a deferral. Becoming unexpectedly pregnant and starting college are both life-changing events. It’s ok if you want to handle one thing at a time. Usually students defer for a year or less, but there are exceptions for longer deferrals. The college can accept or deny a deferral request, and eligibility rules vary. They will ask about why you want to defer, so consider how best to answer the question. Can I go to college if I’m pregnant? Yes you can! You have many legal protections, and there are many opportunities for pregnant students to excel. Ultimately the decision is up to you. If you’re not sure what to do next, we might be able to help you make your college dreams come true! We don’t think that any woman facing an unplanned pregnancy should give up her hope for higher education. If you’re a student facing an unplanned pregnancy, please call or text us at (720) 386-6009 to learn more about your options and all of the support that’s available to you.
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Some women wonder how to feel happier about their unplanned pregnancy. It’s possible to get excited about your pregnancy - without pretending that you’re OK when you’re not.
Finding yourself unexpectedly pregnant can be a jarring experience, especially for college students. Facing an unplanned pregnancy is often a very emotional experience filled with surprise, fear, uncertainty, and many other difficult feelings. Even women who have decided to keep an unplanned pregnancy may struggle to fully accept the pregnancy and to navigate negative emotions, wondering - will I ever feel ok about this? Will I ever feel ok again? If you’re one of these women, you should know that there’s hope. But you should also know that you don’t have to feel excited about an unplanned pregnancy - and you don’t have to feel ashamed that you’re not happy about it. Taking the time to understand your feelings and to be honest with yourself about the difficulty of your situation can help you cope in a healthy way. If there’s a part of you that wishes you could be excited about your unplanned pregnancy, you should also know that it is possible. It may take time, and it may be a slow process, but eventually this anxiety and overwhelm will subside. As you create a plan for your future, build your support system, and ensure that you have access to all necessary medical care and financial assistance, you also make space to look forward to your future. The Avi Project can help you do that. We help college students facing unplanned pregnancies get the support they need - emotional, financial, medical, and so much more - so they can pursue their education and look forward to successful careers. To learn more about tuition assistance, housing, career counseling, access to licensed counselors, and other resources, just call or text us at 720-386-6009. One of our clients shared this about their own experience with The Avi Project: "Our baby was unplanned but I was given information about this wonderful organization called the Avi Project. I was hesitant about everything at first even if it seemed like I was really put together. The Avi Project helped me realize that people really do care and want the best for you! I have received nothing but support and praise throughout this entire process so far. Because of the Avi Project I am starting to feel more excited about my pregnancy than I am scared.” Please reach out today (720-386-6009) for confidential, no-obligation, 24/7 support. If you’re not ready to talk yet, here are a few tips to help you mindfully notice the positives when you’re feeling trapped by the negatives:
Wondering about being in a sorority while pregnant? Asking the question is a great first step! It’s very healthy to want to surround yourself with friends and a community that can offer you support during this time. It’s especially helpful to surround yourself with people who may be able to help encourage and support you in your academic life.
Everyone’s experience with pregnancy and sorority membership will vary depending on individual circumstances, the sorority’s culture, and the support network available. Whether you’re pregnant and currently in a sorority, or you’re considering joining one, there are a few things to keep in mind. You matter. Your well-being is of the utmost importance. Prioritize your health and seek the necessary medical advice and support during your pregnancy. Surrounding yourself with understanding friends can make a significant difference, especially in navigating the academic challenges that may arise. Commitment. Being part of a sorority can be a fulfilling experience, but it comes with its demands. The level of demand associated with being in a sorority can vary significantly based on the specific sorority, its policies, and the expectations of its members. Factors to consider include time commitment, financial obligations, social expectations, philanthropy and community service, leadership roles, and academic expectations. It’s crucial to assess whether these align with your personal priorities and ability to balance other commitments. Consider your energy levels during pregnancy, any challenges like morning sickness, and ensuring time for doctor's appointments. Be open and honest. While discussing your pregnancy may seem daunting, transparency is essential to building trust within the sorority. Some sororities may have a supportive community that rallies around members during challenging times. Others may have a less understanding environment. Speaking with sorority leadership is a positive step—they may provide resources and guidance tailored to your unique situation. Title IX. Sorority membership practices are usually exempt from Title IX law. While some sororities allow pregnant members and members with children, some may not. Sororities may have specific policies or guidelines regarding pregnancies. It's advisable to review the sorority's rules and communicate openly with sorority leaders about your situation. If you’re not in a sorority yet: For those considering rushing, it's vital to be aware that the first six to eight weeks of sorority membership can be extremely busy (and possibly expensive). Timing is key, and being informed can help you make the right decision for your circumstances. If you’re already in a sorority and just found out you’re pregnant, don’t panic! It’s best to find out if there are rules in the bylaws about pregnancy. Members who become pregnant may have the option to become alumni early and continue to engage with the group in a new capacity. Remember, there are also numerous alternatives to sororities. Academic or professional organizations, book clubs, service groups, and more can provide friendship, community, and connection. Explore options that align with your interests and goals, attend club fairs, and embrace diverse experiences to create a well-rounded college journey. If you’re a college student facing an unplanned pregnancy, you have options, and you don’t have to go through this alone. If you’re still feeling lost, please reach out to our team at any time of day or night. We’re available by call or text at 720-386-6009, and we want to help you access all the resources you need (including housing, tuition assistance, medical care, and more). You have the right to nurse or breast pump - as well as to the time, space, and privacy to do so. Find answers to your questions about where, when, and how to comfortably breast pump or nurse while attending college on campus.
Being a student mom might seem impossible sometimes, but we’re here to support you and show you that it can be done! Are there laws around breastfeeding support for students? Title IX, a federal law, prohibits discrimination based on sex. This includes discrimination based on pregnancy-related conditions such as lactation, breastfeeding, and breast pumping. Under Title IX, educational institutions that receive federal funding are required to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant and parenting students. This may include lactation support such as access to private and clean spaces for expressing breast milk, and reasonable break times to do so. Additionally, institutions may need to make accommodations with class scheduling to ensure that lactating students have the opportunity to express milk as needed. If I miss class to pump or breastfeed, could my grades drop? Pregnancy and related medical conditions are covered by Title IX federal law. If you’re penalized for missing class time or school work due to lactation, that may constitute illegal discrimination. Can I pump and/or breastfeed at college? Many college campuses are supportive of breastfeeding and pumping for nursing mothers. Colleges often have policies in place to accommodate the needs of breastfeeding students. It's a good idea to check with your college's Title IX, health services, or student affairs office to find out about the specific facilities and resources available for breastfeeding or pumping on campus. For students in Colorado, several colleges have lactation policies published online, including University of Denver, University of Northern Colorado, and University of Colorado. These policies frequently recognize that appropriate adjustments should be made to accommodate lactating students, and address common issues:
For any questions about the policy, or for questions that are not addressed in by the lactation policy, typically colleges will refer students to the Title IX coordinator for further information. Where can I pump breast milk on college campus? Here are some common places where you might find lactation rooms on a college campus:
If you're having trouble finding a suitable space for pumping or breastfeeding, consider contacting the campus health services, counseling center, or the office of student affairs. They can help ensure that you have a comfortable and supportive environment for pumping breast milk while on campus. What is a lactation room? Some colleges may provide lactation rooms, which offer privacy for breastfeeding and/or breast pumping. These rooms - they may also be booths or pods - offer a cleaner alternative to restrooms and locker rooms. What should I bring with me to the lactation room? This depends on your personal preferences and the specifics of the lactation room, but you may consider bringing:
Being a student mom is hard. We want to help make it easier. It’s important to note that breastfeeding is protected by law in many places, including on college campuses. If you're unsure where to breastfeed or encounter any challenges, consider reaching out to campus resources, such as health services or student affairs, for assistance. Are you a pregnant student experiencing an unplanned pregnancy? Are you wondering how you’re going to feed your baby and also stay in college? We can help you navigate this new chapter of life. We have many free resources available to you - including tuition assistance, career development counseling, and even housing. Call or text us today at (720) 386-6009 to learn more, or visit our pregnancy Help page. Can I lose my scholarship because I got pregnant?
Scholarship policies can vary widely depending on the organization offering them, so it’s important to consult the terms and conditions of your specific scholarship. Many scholarships are awarded based on academic performance or other criteria unrelated to personal life events, so becoming pregnant may not impact your scholarship. Becoming pregnant does not erase your excellent grades, compelling essays, athletic achievements, or any other qualifications that may have earned you a scholarship! Many institutions also have provisions for medical circumstances. Since Title IX protects students from discrimination based on sex, pregnancy-related medical conditions must be treated the same as any other illness, injury, or temporary disability. In regard to athletic scholarships, the NCAA states, “Once an athletics award has been made (typically for one-year) it cannot be withdrawn due to pregnancy, suspected pregnancy, parenthood or termination of pregnancy. As long as a student athlete remains in good standing academically and does not withdraw voluntarily, a pregnant student-athlete’s scholarship is protected from being reduced or withdrawn in a number of ways.” In addition, “Consistent with non-discrimination principles, a pregnant student-athlete is entitled to keep her scholarship under the same NCAA bylaws that allow an injured or ill student-athlete to keep receiving his or her award.”* Title IX and NCAA laws ensure that pregnant students have the same educational opportunities as any other student, including scholarship and financial aid opportunities. If a scholarship was revoked solely due to pregnancy, it would likely constitute unlawful discrimination. If you believe your scholarship is being unfairly impacted by your pregnancy, it’s important to speak with your college’s financial aid office or scholarship provider. As a pregnant student, you have many legal protections! If you’re a pregnant college student who’s worried about keeping your scholarship, staying in school, or navigating the uncharted journey ahead, we designed a program just for you. The Avi Project provides resources and support throughout this difficult time, and helps you create the bright future you deserve. Please call or text us at (720) 386-6009 to speak with one of our team members - we’re available 24/7. *From: A Review of Federal Law and NCAA Rules Impacting Treatment of Pregnant and Parenting Student-Athletes Over 2 million college-aged women find themselves in an unexpected pregnancy, and many also find themselves without the support of friends or family. Watch our new video, which tells the story of a young woman who found herself unexpectedly pregnant as a college freshman after a traumatic experience, including her shock at that first positive pregnancy test at 8 months, her relationship with the women who helped her through it all, and her courageous decision to choose adoption. It’s a beautiful adoption success story, told by the birth mother as well as the adoptive parents whose lives were changed forever by the gift of a child. At The Avi Project, we train female volunteers to walk alongside students like Emily who face unplanned pregnancy, and we focus solely on the college campus to provide the one-on-one support they need. If you’re a college student struggling with an unexpected pregnancy, Emily’s message to you is this: know that you’re brave, you’re strong, you’re going to be okay, and you are not alone. Consider calling or texting our team at 720-386-6009 to learn more about the financial, medical, and emotional support that’s available to you - we’re available any time of day or night, and it’s completely confidential and commitment-free. If you would like to support The Avi Project, we would be so grateful for your help in guiding clients through healthy pregnancies and planning for a hopeful future. Balancing coursework, exams, and assignments with the physical and emotional demands of pregnancy may seem daunting, but with the right support, it's entirely possible to thrive academically while pregnant. In this comprehensive guide, we share some tips for staying healthy, being comfortable, and succeeding academically while pregnant in college.
Mental Health Tips
Physical Health Tips
Succeeding in School
Staying Comfortable
Remember that your well-being and health, as well as that of your baby, should be your top priorities during this time. Don't hesitate to seek support from your college's resources, and be proactive in communicating with professors and seeking accommodations to help you succeed academically while managing your pregnancy. If you’re looking for support, resources, or just some positivity to help you through this challenging time, reach out to our team at The Avi Project. We offer confidential, commitment-free assistance 24/7 at (720) 386-6009. Wondering if you’ll lose your scholarship or get kicked out of college because you’re pregnant? Title IX protects your rights as a pregnant college student.
Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a legal professional for advice. Title IX is a federal law in the United States that protects parenting and pregnant college students, and imposes obligations on educational institutions in matters of recruitment, admissions, financial assistance, and more. Title IX prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational programs and activities that receive federal funding, including colleges and universities. Title IX prohibits colleges and universities from discriminating against pregnant students. You have the right to continue your education and participate in all aspects of college life, including classes, extracurricular activities, and housing, without being treated unfairly because of your pregnancy. Your college must provide reasonable accommodations if necessary to ensure you can continue your education. This could include things like excused absences for pregnancy-related medical appointments, flexible deadlines, or adjustments to class schedules. It may also include reasonable adjustments like allowing frequent trips to the restroom or ensuring you have elevator access to your classes. Though Title IX doesn't specifically require colleges to offer parental leave, many schools have policies in place to allow students to take a temporary break from their studies for childbirth or other parenting responsibilities. You should not be penalized for submitting assignments past the due date if you missed the deadline because of pregnancy or childbirth, and there should be allowances for making up participation, attendance credits, and coursework. You should also not be penalized for following your doctor’s guidance, especially when you’re able to provide doctor’s notes. Be sure to check your college's policies regarding parental leave and understand your options. If you believe you are facing discrimination due to your pregnancy, you should report it to your college's Title IX coordinator or designated official. They are responsible for addressing Title IX complaints and ensuring compliance with the law. If you’re concerned about retaliation or confidentiality, you should know that colleges are required to keep your complaint and related information confidential to the extent possible. However, they must also take steps to prevent and address discrimination, which may involve some disclosure. Many colleges offer support services for pregnant and parenting students, such as childcare facilities, lactation rooms, and counseling. These services can help you balance your academic responsibilities with your parenting responsibilities. Familiarize yourself with your rights under Title IX and your college's specific policies related to pregnancy discrimination. Your college's Title IX coordinator or office should be able to provide you with information and guidance. If you believe your college is not adequately addressing your concerns or you face ongoing discrimination, you may want to consult with an attorney who specializes in Title IX cases. It's important to remember that Title IX protections extend to all aspects of your education, not just pregnancy-related issues. If you have concerns or questions about your rights as a pregnant college student, don't hesitate to reach out to your college's Title IX coordinator or seek legal advice to ensure your rights are protected. If trying to navigate college while also dealing with an unexpected pregnancy feels impossible and overwhelming, text us today at (720) 386-6009. Our team at The Avi Project is dedicated to helping students just like you, and we’re available 24/7. Title IX FAQs Can you be pregnant in college? Yes, it is entirely possible to be pregnant while attending college. Many students become pregnant during their college years. If you are a pregnant college student, it's important to be aware of your rights, resources, and support systems available to you, as well as to plan accordingly to manage your academic and personal responsibilities. Can colleges kick you out for being pregnant? Title IX prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational programs that receive federal funding. This includes protection against discrimination on the basis of pregnancy. Colleges must provide reasonable accommodations to ensure that pregnant students can continue their studies. If a college were to attempt to kick you out solely because you are pregnant, it would likely be in violation of Title IX and could face legal consequences. It's essential to speak with your college's Title IX coordinator or designated official so that they can address your situation and ensure compliance with the law. Can you go to college pregnant? Yes, you can absolutely go to college while pregnant. Being pregnant does not disqualify you from pursuing higher education. Many pregnant individuals continue their college education, and colleges and universities are generally supportive of pregnant students in their academic pursuits. Remember that many colleges are committed to helping pregnant students succeed academically, and they have policies and support systems in place to accommodate your needs. Don't hesitate to reach out to your college's student services, counseling center, or academic advisors for guidance and assistance in navigating your college experience while pregnant. Should I tell my professor I’m pregnant? Telling your professor that you are pregnant can be a personal and potentially sensitive conversation. Remember that professors want to see their students succeed, and they may be willing to work with you to ensure that your academic needs are met during your pregnancy. Will I lose my scholarship because I got pregnant? Title IX ensures that pregnant students have the same educational opportunities and benefits as non-pregnant students. This includes the protection of scholarships and financial aid. Scholarships should not be revoked or denied solely because of pregnancy, as this would likely constitute discrimination under Title IX. If you believe your scholarships are being threatened or unfairly impacted by your pregnancy, it's essential to seek guidance from your college's financial aid office or scholarship provider and, if necessary, consider legal recourse to protect your rights. How do I contact my Title IX coordinator? To get in touch with your school’s Title IX coordinator, check your college’s website and look for the “Title IX” or “Equity and Inclusion” section of the website, or use the search function. If you cannot find contact information, contact the Dean of Students or the Student Affairs Office, and they should be able to direct you to the appropriate person. Once you have the contact information, you can either send an email or call the Title IX coordinator directly. Free Pregnancy Help
As a college student navigating an unexpected pregnancy, you’re likely concerned about finances. You’re already in a stressful situation and feeling overwhelmed, and money worries add to the fear and uncertainty. Whether you’ve taken a pregnancy test or you’re anxiously waiting to take one, you’re probably wondering how you can afford the care you need. Where can I find free pregnancy tests and ultrasounds? Fortunately, there are many organizations that provide free or low-cost pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and other services. Our dedicated volunteers are always ready to direct you to resources that offer free assistance to expectant mothers (text us 24/7 at (720) 386-6009). We will guide you towards the professionals, organizations, and agencies that will help you meet your needs without incurring unmanageable expenses. When you’re in crisis, you don’t need to wonder where you can get help - or whether you can afford it. We have strong relationships with many reputable organizations that are dedicated to helping you during this difficult time. Can I get prenatal care without insurance? Yes, there are several affordable options for gynecological exams and prenatal healthcare available to you, even if you don’t have insurance. You do not need insurance to receive free or low-cost crisis pregnancy care and counseling! I’m low-income and need counseling. Even if you’re low-income, you have access to crisis pregnancy counseling. Our team at The Avi Project is ready to talk with you at any time of night or day, refer you to a licensed therapist, or help you find the organization that can best provide for your needs. Text us at 720-386-6009 to find out more about free counseling. Whether you’re navigating your options, needing career guidance, or just looking for kindness and encouragement, you don’t have to let limited income keep you from getting help. More Financial Help For Pregnant Students If you’re a college student in need of pregnancy care, but working with a tight budget, reach out to us to get help now. We are available at any time of night or day to talk with you, confidentially, with no obligation, at 720-386-6009. We work with many organizations that provide a variety of services and products to students in need: - Pregnancy tests including urine tests, blood tests, at-home tests, and medical-grade tests - Ultrasounds - Fertility awareness education - Pregnancy education classes - Parenting classes - Abortion pill reversal and post abortion healing - Diapers, clothes, and other baby supplies - IUD and implant birth control removal - OBGYN exams and pregnancy checkups - Prescriptions - Scholarships - Adoption information - STD/STI testing - Housing - Counseling Whether or not you tell your college professor about your pregnancy is a personal decision that depends on various factors. There are many reasons you might tell your professor, especially if you expect your pregnancy to impact your attendance, participation, or ability to complete your assignments. Having a quick conversation with your professor could also help you worry less about your class during an already stressful time. If you decide to tell your college professor that you’re pregnant, factor in your due date, the specific course requirements, and your overall health when planning what you want to say. Consider these pros and cons when deciding whether to tell your professor you’re pregnant.
Pros of telling your college professor you’re pregnant:
Cons of telling your college professor you’re pregnant:
How should I tell my professor I’m pregnant? Here are some tips for talking to your professor and planning a successful semester. Consider talking to your college advisor, a disability coordinator, or a guidance counselor before talking to your professor. They will be familiar with your institution’s maternity leave policies as well as Title IX law, which protects people from discrimination in educational programs. Your college may also have support services, such as counseling, academic advisors, or a student affairs office. Consider reaching out to these, and other resources for additional guidance and support (our team at The Avi Project is available 24/7 at 720-386-6009!) If you’re in the early stages of pregnancy and don’t anticipate immediate academic challenges, you might choose to wait to speak to your professor. If you’re concerned about privacy, ask your professor about how they handle sensitive information and whether they can keep this matter confidential. When you do talk to your professor, plan ahead and prepare what you want to say and any questions you may have. Think about your academic needs, potential adjustments, and any concerns you want to address. Choose the right time and place, like during the professor’s office hours or after class, to ensure you have enough time for a private conversation without interruptions. Discuss potential adjustments or accommodations you might need, ask for flexibility, and also ask for your professor’s guidance on how to manage your academic responsibilities during this time. Inquire about any options for extensions, makeup work, or alternative arrangements. Approach the conversation with respect and professionalism. Remember that your professor is there to help you succeed academically! During the conversation, take notes on any agreements or arrangements you both discussed, to help ensure you both have a clear understanding. Keep documentation of any arrangements you made verbally with your professor as well, and consider sending them a quick email confirming those arrangements. If any action items arise from the conversation, make sure to follow up with your professor in a timely manner. This demonstrates your commitment to managing your responsibilities. Touch base again closer to your due date to put your mind at ease. Email Template If you’re thinking about emailing your professor, we’ve provided a template you might use as a guideline to get you started. Be sure to tweak it depending on your circumstances. Hello Professor [Last Name], I’m [Name], a student in your [Course Name] class. I wanted to let you know that I am currently pregnant and am expecting to deliver in [Month/Year]. I’m excited for your class, and wanted to work with you to find the best way to manage my assignments and coursework while maintaining flexibility to make my prenatal appointments. What is the best way to get in touch with you if I expect to miss a class due to a doctor appointment? There are also certain coursework details I would like to receive early, if possible, so I can work ahead and make sure I meet all of the due dates. If it’s possible, I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to further discuss any potential modifications, as well as how I might make up course work if I have to miss a class. Thank you for your understanding and guidance, I appreciate it! Please let me know a convenient time for you to meet, or if you prefer, we can communicate via email. Sincerely, [Your Name] You’ve got this. You might feel anxious about telling your professor you’re pregnant, but it’s important to give yourself the tools you need to achieve success, and to give your professor the chance to help you be the best student you can be! If you’re nervous about talking to your advisor or professor about your pregnancy, call or text our compassionate and understanding team any time of night or day (we’re available 24/7!) at 720-386-6009. The Avi Project is dedicated to helping expectant students, so you can get the support and encouragement you need for academic success. |
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