11 Scholarships and Grants for Adults Going Back to School

Pursuing higher education isn't just for recent high school graduates. Adults returning to school also have access to a wealth of scholarships and grants to help fund their education. With millions of dollars available in financial aid, adult students, no matter their age or stage in life, can find support. Whether you’re returning to complete a degree, changing careers, or expanding your skills, you’ll be surprised at the variety of financial aid options available.

Financial Aid for Adult Students

The idea that financial aid is only for traditional students is a misconception. As an adult returning to college, you’re eligible for numerous federal and private scholarships, grants, and loans. Importantly, there is no age limit to qualify for federal financial aid. The first step in obtaining this aid is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application is crucial because it determines your eligibility for federal grants and student loans. Each year, you must renew your FAFSA to ensure continuous access to financial aid.

Moreover, many scholarships and grants from private organizations don’t impose age restrictions. While some are designed specifically for high school graduates, others focus solely on adult learners or returning students. Additionally, some companies offer employer-sponsored tuition assistance programs, providing another valuable funding avenue.

To maximize your financial aid options, always start by completing the FAFSA and then explore scholarships and grants that cater to adult students.

6 Scholarships for Adults Returning to College

Scholarships are primarily merit-based, while grants typically focus on financial need. However, many organizations use these terms interchangeably, so don’t discredit an opportunity based solely on its title. Below are six scholarships specifically for adults returning to college:

1. Ford Opportunity Program Scholarship

The Ford Opportunity Program Scholarship is ideal for adult learners who are either parents or over the age of 25. This program covers up to 90% of the total cost of attendance, making it a substantial award for those living in Oregon or Siskiyou County, California. To qualify, you must be pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree, and your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) must not exceed $10,000. Up to 96 renewable scholarships are awarded each year, offering significant financial support to students committed to completing their education.

2. Executive Women International Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST)

The ASIST Scholarship targets adult students experiencing significant life transitions, whether social, economic, or physical. This scholarship supports individuals pursuing certifications or degrees, from associate to master’s levels. The awards range from $2,000 to $10,000 and require applicants to apply through one of the organization's 34 chapters across the U.S. After successfully applying at the local level, recipients are selected for the national award.

3. Return2College Scholarship

Unlike many scholarships, the Return2College Scholarship has no upper age limit, making it accessible to anyone aged 17 or older. The award provides $1,000 for students planning to enroll in the upcoming school year. The application is refreshingly simple: candidates only need to complete a short form and answer the question, “Why are you getting your degree?” in three sentences. This opportunity is a great fit for busy adult learners.

4. Job-Applications.com Working Parent College Scholarship

For employed parents balancing work and school, the Working Parent College Scholarship offers an excellent opportunity. To be eligible, applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA and work at least 12 hours per week while enrolled in college or a vocational program. The application process requires a 600-1,000 word essay detailing how the applicant manages to balance work, parenting, and academics. This scholarship recognizes the challenges working parents face and offers a financial boost to help ease the load.

5. College JumpStart Scholarship

The College JumpStart Scholarship is a merit-based award offering $1,000 to adult learners committed to continuing their education. The primary qualification is a clear expression of your educational goals and commitment to finishing your degree. The application is straightforward, requiring a brief form and a 250-word statement explaining your aspirations. If you’re a goal-oriented student looking for a simple application process, this scholarship could be a perfect fit.

6. Boomer Benefits Scholarship

Older adults aged 50 or older can apply for the Boomer Benefits Scholarship, which awards two $2,500 scholarships annually. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in an accredited college or university, have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and submit an essay outlining their career goals and community service experience. Both undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged to apply, making this an excellent opportunity for older learners who want to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

5 Grants for Adult Students

While scholarships often reward academic merit, grants are typically based on financial need. Here are five grants specifically designed for adult learners:

1. Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant

Named after the first woman elected to Congress, the Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant is tailored for low-income women and nonbinary students aged 35 and older. Whether you’re attending a four-year institution or a vocational school, this grant can be a lifeline for adult students. Notably, this award is renewable for up to five years and provides unrestricted non-tuition funding, giving recipients flexibility in covering various educational expenses beyond tuition fees.

2. Imagine America Adult Skills Education Program

The Imagine America Adult Skills Education Program is perfect for those looking to attend a career or vocational training program. To qualify, applicants must be at least 19 years old, and there’s no upper age limit. The program awards up to $1,000, making it a significant contribution toward the costs of career-focused education, which can provide a quicker pathway to employment for adult learners.

3. Patsy Mink Education Support Award

Every year, the Patsy Mink Education Support Award grants five $5,000 scholarships to low-income mothers. The award is open to applicants at all levels of postsecondary education, including technical and vocational programs. To apply, candidates must demonstrate financial need and submit documentation verifying their income. Recipients are selected based on a combination of financial need, personal circumstances, educational and career goals, and a commitment to activism or service.

4. Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award

The Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award is an excellent opportunity for women who are the primary financial support for their dependents. Recipients can receive awards ranging from $1,000 to $16,000 to cover educational and related costs, such as childcare. The award supports women pursuing undergraduate degrees and helps alleviate the financial burden of education for those balancing family responsibilities.

5. Federal Grants (Pell Grant and FSEOG)

Two of the most accessible grants for adult students are the Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG). Both of these are federal awards, and the amount you receive is based on financial need, as determined by the FAFSA. The Pell Grant offers a maximum of $7,395 for the 2023-2024 school year, while the FSEOG awards up to $4,000 annually. There is no age restriction for either of these grants, making them a viable option for adult learners.

How to Continue Your Search for Financial Aid

The scholarships and grants listed above are just the beginning. With so many financial aid options available, it’s worth your time to research thoroughly and apply for as many opportunities as possible. Keep in mind that free money—such as scholarships and grants—is always preferable to loans, as it doesn’t need to be repaid.

To find additional financial aid options, you can use databases such as BuzzEssays. These platforms allow you to search for awards tailored to your unique circumstances, such as being an adult learner, working parent, or veteran. You can also explore opportunities at the institutional level, as many colleges offer scholarships and grants specifically for returning or non-traditional students. Don’t overlook state and local government programs, which may also provide financial support for adult learners.

Stay Organized in Your Scholarship Search

When applying for multiple scholarships and grants, it’s essential to stay organized. Keep a spreadsheet that lists each award, its eligibility criteria, deadline, and application requirements. This will help you stay on top of important deadlines and track your progress.

The application process can feel overwhelming at times, but remember that every award you apply for increases your chances of reducing your reliance on student loans. By securing scholarships and grants, you can focus more on your education and less on financial stress.

Going back to school as an adult can be a rewarding but financially challenging endeavor. However, the good news is that there are countless scholarships and grants available to support adult learners. From national scholarships like the Ford Opportunity Program Scholarship to private grants such as the Patsy Mink Education Support Award, adults have access to a wide range of financial aid options.

By taking the time to research and apply for these opportunities, you can significantly reduce the cost of your education and focus on achieving your academic and career goals. Don’t let financial concerns hold you back—start applying today, and unlock the doors to higher education as an adult learner.