by The USA Scholarship Guide Team | Feb 19, 2025 | Resources & Tips, Scholarships

Going back to school as a non-traditional student can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to paying for tuition. Many scholarships are designed for recent high school graduates, but plenty of funding opportunities exist for adults returning to school after raising a family, changing careers, or serving in the military. Learn where to find scholarships specifically for non-traditional students and how to maximize your chances of receiving financial aid.

What Is a Non-Traditional Student?

A non-traditional student is anyone pursuing higher education outside the typical path of going to college right after high school. This includes:

Adults returning to school after several years in the workforce
Parents or caregivers balancing education with family responsibilities
Career changers seeking new skills or degrees
Military veterans transitioning to civilian careers
Part-time students who can’t attend school full-time due to work or family obligations

Many organizations recognize the unique challenges non-traditional students face and offer scholarships to support their education.

National Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students

Several major organizations provide scholarships specifically for adult learners. These programs offer financial support to help cover tuition, books, and other expenses.

1. Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund

For low-income women age 35 and older
Must be pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree
Awards range from $2,000 to $5,000

2. Return2College Scholarship

Open to students age 25 or older
No GPA or financial need requirements
Requires a short essay of 3 sentences on why you’re returning to school
Award: $1,000

3. Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) Scholarship

For adult students returning to school due to career changes or life transitions
Offered by Executive Women International (EWI)
Amount varies by local EWI chapters

4. Imagine America Foundation Adult Skills Education Program

Available to students age 19 and older pursuing vocational or trade school programs
Award: $1,000

5. Alpha Sigma Lambda Scholarships

For part-time and full-time adult students
Must be enrolled in an undergraduate degree program
Award: Up to $3,000

Scholarships for Parents Returning to School

Balancing school and family life is challenging, but scholarships can ease the financial burden. These programs specifically help parents who are furthering their education.

6. Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Scholarship

For low-income women with children
Must be enrolled in a vocational, associate’s, or bachelor’s program
Awards up to $5,000

7. Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award

Open to women who are the primary financial support for their families
Must be enrolled in an undergraduate or vocational program
Awards between $1,000 and $16,000

8. Custody X Change Single Parent Scholarship

For single parents enrolled in college
Requires a short essay about how education will improve your life as a parent
Award: $1,000

Scholarships for Career Changers

If you’re heading back to school to switch careers, certain scholarships can help fund your education in high-demand fields.

9. Unigo $10K Scholarship

Open to students of all ages pursuing higher education
Requires a short essay on how education will shape your future
Award: $10,000

10. Ford ReStart Program

Available to adults age 25 or older who have been out of school for at least five years
Must be pursuing a vocational, associate’s, or bachelor’s degree
Award: Varies by financial need

11. The Educators for Tomorrow Scholarship

For adults returning to school to become teachers or education professionals
Open to undergraduates and graduate students
Award: $500 – $2,500

Scholarships for Veterans and Military Spouses

Many scholarships are available for military members transitioning to civilian careers and for their spouses who are pursuing higher education.

12. Pat Tillman Foundation Scholarship

For military veterans and spouses
Must be pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or professional degree
Award: Varies based on need

13. AMVETS National Scholarship Program

For veterans, active-duty service members, and their spouses
Must be enrolled in a vocational, associate’s, or bachelor’s program
Awards between $1,000 and $12,000

14. MyCAA Scholarship (Military Spouse Career Advancement Account)

For spouses of active-duty military members
Covers tuition for certificate, licensing, and associate’s degree programs
Award: Up to $4,000

Where Else to Look for Non-Traditional Student Scholarships

Local Community Foundations

Many cities and states offer adult learner scholarships through local foundations. Search for “[your state] adult student scholarships” or check with local universities for funding opportunities.

Employer Tuition Assistance Programs

Some companies provide tuition reimbursement or scholarships for employees returning to school. Check with your HR department to see if your employer offers educational benefits.

College Financial Aid Offices

Many universities have scholarships specifically for non-traditional students. When applying to schools, ask about:

Adult learner scholarships
Work-study programs
Grants for career changers

Tips for Winning Scholarships as a Non-Traditional Student

Highlight your unique experiences. Scholarship committees value life experience and perseverance, so emphasize how returning to school will impact your future.
Apply for multiple scholarships. Many non-traditional students underestimate the number of opportunities available to them. The more you apply for, the better your chances.
Meet deadlines and follow directions. Missing a deadline or failing to submit required documents could disqualify your application.
Write a strong personal statement. Clearly explain why you’re returning to school, what you hope to accomplish, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.

Final Thoughts

Going back to school as a non-traditional student is a big step, but financial aid is available to help make it more affordable. Whether you’re a parent, career changer, veteran, or part-time student, there are scholarships designed to support your education. Explore the options listed here, apply to as many as possible, and take the next step toward your academic and career goals.

Related Content

Scholarships for First-Generation College Students: Where to Look

Being the first in your family to attend college is a major achievement — and a major challenge. From navigating applications to figuring out how to pay for it all, the process can feel overwhelming. The good news? There are scholarships out there designed...

Scholarships for Trade and Technical School Students

For decades, the push toward four-year college degrees has dominated the conversation around education and scholarships. But today, the spotlight is shifting. Trade and technical schools—offering hands-on training for in-demand careers—are gaining new respect. With...

Resources for Formerly Incarcerated Students Returning to Education

Going back to school after incarceration takes courage. For many people, higher education is not just about earning a degree—it’s about rebuilding a life, opening career doors, and finding a path forward. While the journey may come with unique challenges, there are...

Leveraging Your College Education for Career Growth

Your college education is more than just a degree—it’s a launchpad for career success. By taking advantage of networking opportunities, internships, and campus resources, you can build a strong foundation for your future. Discover practical tips to help you make the...

Scholarship Scams: How to Spot and Avoid Them

When you’re applying for scholarships, the last thing you want is to fall into a trap that steals your time, money, or personal information. Unfortunately, scammers know students are eager for financial help and target them with fake opportunities that sound too good...

Returning to School After a Break: What You Need to Know

Going back to school after a break can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a chance to chase new goals and open doors to better opportunities. Whether you’re starting fresh or finishing what you started, returning to school as an adult requires planning, focus, and a bit...

Summer Classes: Should You Take Them to Save Time and Money?

Summer break used to mean three full months away from school. But for many college students today, summer classes are becoming a strategic tool. Taking courses between spring and fall semesters can help you graduate faster, reduce long-term costs, and ease pressure...

Making the Most of Your Scholarships: A Guide to Maximizing Your Benefits

Winning a scholarship is an incredible achievement, but it’s just the beginning. Once you’ve secured funding, it’s essential to use it wisely and strategically. Learn how to stretch your scholarship dollars, stay eligible, and make the most of this opportunity for a...

How to Pay Off Student Loans Faster Without Burning Out

Student loans can feel like a long-term companion you never asked for—one that lingers long after graduation. With the average U.S. graduate owing over $30,000, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start. But here’s the good news: paying off student loans...

Financial Aid Tips for Homeless or Housing-Insecure Students: FAFSA Guidance, Scholarships, and Campus Support

For students experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, college can feel both hopeful and overwhelming. Pursuing higher education while worrying about where you will sleep or how you will pay for food creates stress that many classmates may never see. The good...

SMA Native American STEM Scholarship

The SMA Native American STEM Scholarship awards Native American students pursuing a four-year degree in in STEM--Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Scholarship Sponsor Souder Miller & Associates (SMA) and Granite ConstructionAward Type $1,500 CashGender...

The Edmund F. Maxwell Foundation

The Maxwell Scholarship was established to assist high school seniors from Western Washington in obtaining a higher education.Scholarship Sponsor Edmund F Maxwell FoundationAward Type $20,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria:...

University of Maine at Presque Isle Merit Awards

The University of Maine at Presque Isle understands that earning a degree is a very valuable endeavor and we are committed to offering you opportunities to offset the costs through our Student Academic Scholarship Program.Scholarship Sponsor The University of...

Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation

The Shawn Carter Scholarship Fund (SCSF) was founded on the belief that any motivated individual in need should have the opportunity to further his or her education.Scholarship Sponsor Shawn Carter FoundationAward Type $2,500 CashGender Eligibility AllOther...

Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship

The Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship provides an opportunity for students to advance their education in anti-fraud career paths.Scholarship Sponsor Association of Certified Fraud ExaminersAward Type $10,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria...

Tom Brady’s – TB12 Foundation Scholarship

Our mission is to educate and inspire athletes to excel in both sports and life. We provide access to athletic, rehabilitation, and nutrition resources that empower athletes who are at-risk and underserved – often due to economic obstacles or significant injury – to...

LNESC Ford Driving Dreams Scholarship

The Ford Driving Dreams Scholarship Program is intended to assist and encourage Hispanic high school seniors from the North Texas, Houston, and San Antonio areas to pursue a degree at U.S. post-secondary institutions. Scholarship Sponsor League of United Latin...

SLU Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship

SLU's MLK scholarship is granted to students who are committed to the promotion of diversity and social justice, who demonstrate leadership in the classroom, on campus and in the greater community.Scholarship Sponsor St Louis UniversityAward Type $3,000 CashGender...

Texas A&M University – McFadden Scholarship

Texas A&M University's McFadden Scholarship is worth $2,500 and renewable for four years if eligibility requirements are met. Scholarship Sponsor Texas A&MAward Type $10,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: USA Criteria /...

NJ STARS Scholarship

The New Jersey Student Tuition Assistance Reward Scholarship (NJ STARS) program is an initiative created by the state of New Jersey that provides New Jersey's highest achieving students with free tuition at their home county community college, less any state and/or...

Susan T. Buffett Scholarship

Warren Buffett college scholarships are awarded each year by The Susan T. Buffett Foundation for kids who are doing well in school and want to study business. He has created a few foundations which help to give out these scholarships also he would like to encourage...

Seabee Memorial Scholarship Association Scholarships

Children or grandchildren of a Seabee or Civil Engineer Corps (CEC) officer are encouraged to apply to the SMSA Scholarships. Scholarships are awarded base on financial need, academics, student involvement and an essay. Awards are made for two-year, four-year and...

Cesar Chavez Day Las Vegas 2018 Scholarship

Clark County, Nevada, Seniors who participate in the Cesar Chavez Day Festival and are planning to attend college in Nevada may apply for this scholarship. Number and amount(s) of scholarship(s) to be determined, up to $1,000.Scholarship Sponsor The Public Education...

Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grants

Created by the Mississippi Legislature, this program is designed to provide financial assistance to Mississippi residents attending state approved public and private not-for-profit two-year and four-year eligible colleges and universities. The primary objective of...

I.am ESRI Scholarship

The i.am.angel Foundation, created by Will.I.AM, established a scholarship program to assist students from Roosevelt High School in Los Angeles who plan to continue their education in college or vocational school programs. Scholarships are offered each year for...

Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students: Where to Look