Being a Mother and Studying at the Same Time

Who says that moms can't go to school like any other person? With a lot of dedication and planning, every woman can fulfill her goals while also carrying out her role as a mother.
Being a Mother and Studying at the Same Time

Last update: 07 July, 2018

Is being a mother and studying at the same time possible? The answer is yes. It’s never too late to fulfill the purposes that we set in our lives.

Many mothers decide to complete their studies or university degree while also raising their children.

If you’re thinking about this possibility or if you’ve already started, you should remember that there will always be that voice telling you that you can’t. It will say there isn’t enough hours in the day or that you’ll end up dying – not literally, of course – in the attempt.

Although you surely already know, you don’t have to listen to this negativity. Nobody knows your capabilities better than you do, and the willpower and the circumstances that make this goal possible. 

However, it goes without saying that it isn’t a simple goal. Being a mother and studying requires a lot of sacrifice and, undoubtedly, collaboration.

How Do I Become a Mom and Student at the Same Time?

Many women feel dizzy just by asking themselves that question. It makes sense: not all children are the same and not all mothers get the opportunity to go back to school and reach their goals.

However, everything is possible with planning and perseveranceHere are some aspects to take into account:

1. Organization and Discipline

Of course, you won’t have a whole lot of peace and quiet or down time. That’s why it’s essential that you take advantage of the time you have to do your homework, study and attend class.

When can you do that? One option is during the mornings. Many moms leave their babies in nurseries to work. Surely someone who studies can do it too. In fact, there are scholarships that subsidize private and state daycare centers in several countries.

On the other hand, you can count on family help at certain times. Before exams or on specific dates, request help from grandmothers or uncles. Logically, you should also take advantage of the moments when the baby spends time with his or her father.

Being a Mother and Studying at the Same Time

2. Willingness to Make Sacrifices

A task this large can be twice as rewarding once achieved, and there’s no doubt about that. However, a lot of effort will be necessary along the way.

You’ll also have to set aside certain things. For example, moms often can’t keep up the same pace as their classmates or be 100% dedicated to their studies. This goes for both academically and recreationally.

Also, you should know that studying takes up a large part of a person’s free time. This translates into fewer physical activities – don’t abandon them for anything in the world – fewer films and TV shows, hobbies and unfortunately, less family time.

3. It’s Important to Take Breaks

So many responsibilities can overwhelm you and give your life a new pace that you may have a hard time getting used to. Therefore, make realistic goals and incorporate mandatory rest moments into your routines.

This is the fuel you’ll need to face your commitments with energy, as well as being overall essential for your health. If you don’t do it, you’ll end up sick or abandoning your studies sooner or later.

“Nobody better than you knows the capabilities, willpower and circumstances that make this goal possible.”

4. Persuasion and Needs

First, when you have doubts about whether you’ll succeed or not, have the conviction that what you do is a great gesture of courage and self-love. If you work hard for it, there is no doubt that you’ll reach your goal.

On the other hand, being a mother and studying will make it impossible for you to stand out as you would like to in all areas. Don’t pressure or blame yourself for this: keep calm and remember that not everyone faces these challenges. Don’t compare yourself to anyone; only you know the best version of you.
Being a Mother and Studying at the Same Time

5. Enjoy Your Family

It’s totally understandable that you want to do your best in regards to your studies, but this shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your child and your partner. In these cases, you should avoid the two negative extremes:

  • It’s not true that you should dedicate 100% of your life to your family and your well-being. You don’t have to set aside your life goals and aspirations. Therefore, don’t feel guilty.
  • Nor is it true that obligations should keep you from enjoying your loved ones. The key is balance. You’ll find time for everything.

In addition to what we’ve already said, the important thing is that you feel satisfied with yourself and enjoy the life you lead.

If you study or stop studying due to pressure from others or criticisms that you may receive, you won’t be following what you want. Nobody knows your priorities and desires more than you. Dedicate yourself to them!


All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.


  • Cortés-Camarillo, G., & Leo-Peraza, L. G. (2018). RETOS EN EL CAMINO DE LAS MADRES QUE ESTUDIAN. REVISTA DEL CENTRO DE GRADUADOS E INVESTIGACIÓN, 111.
  • Miller, D., & Arvizu, V. (2016). Ser madre y estudiante. Una exploración de las características de las universitarias con hijos y breves notas para su estudio. Revista de la educación superior, 45(177), 17-42. http://www.scielo.org.mx/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0185-27602016000100017
  • Murillo, I. A. (2007). Mujeres que estudian. Iberoforum. Revista de Ciencias Sociales de la Universidad Iberoamericana, 2(4), 1-23.

This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.