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

Financial Aid Resources for Students in Rural Areas: Scholarships, State Grants, and Distance Learning Support

For students in rural or small-town communities, the road to higher education can feel a bit longer—literally and figuratively. Fewer local resources, limited access to college counseling, and geographic isolation often create barriers to finding and funding a college...

Scholarships for Indigenous and Native American Students: Where to Find Real Funding Opportunities

Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but for Indigenous and Native American students, there are targeted scholarships and grants that are often underutilized. These programs are designed not just to reduce financial burden, but to support long-term educational...

Top Time Management Tips for College Students

College can feel like a juggling act, with academics, extracurriculars, and a social life all competing for your attention. Managing your time well is the key to balancing it all and reducing stress. Dive into these practical tips to take control of your schedule and...

How to Get Letters of Recommendation for Scholarship Applications

Why Recommendation Letters Matter A strong letter of recommendation can be the deciding factor in a competitive scholarship application. While your grades and essay tell one story, a recommendation provides a trusted outside perspective that confirms your strengths,...

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...

How to Build a Resume While You’re Still in School

Think you need a full-time job to start a resume? Think again. Even if you're still in school, you can build a strong, professional-looking resume that highlights your skills, achievements, and potential. The key is knowing how to spin your everyday experiences into...

Financial Aid Resources for Students with Chronic Illnesses

Managing a chronic illness while pursuing higher education adds a layer of complexity that most financial aid systems are not designed to fully address. Medical expenses, fluctuating energy levels, and the need for flexible schedules can all impact both your academic...

Networking in College: Building Connections That Pay Off Later

When people talk about success after college, they often focus on grades, internships, or résumés. But there’s another powerful factor that can open doors long before you graduate: your network. The relationships you build in college—with professors, classmates,...

How to Build a Strong Resume in High School

Your high school resume is your ticket to showcasing your unique skills and achievements to colleges, scholarships, and potential employers. Set yourself apart by learning how to craft a standout resume that reflects your strengths and potential. Why a Resume Matters...

The Best Essay-Based Scholarships with Minimal Requirements

When it comes to landing college scholarships, many students assume that top GPAs and perfect SAT scores are the only tickets to free money. But in reality, there’s a whole category of scholarships where your grades matter far less than your ability to write a...

University of Alabama-Tuscaloosa Out of State Merit Scholarships

First time freshmen admitted to the University of Alabama by May 1, have a qualifying score on the ACT or SAT in February, and have at least a 3.0 cumulative high school GPA through December of the senior year will be eligible for an Out-of-State Merit...

Irene and Daisy MacGregor Memorial Scholarship

The Irene and Daisy MacGregor Memorial Scholarship is awarded to two students of high scholastic standing and character who have been accepted into or are pursuing an approved course of study to become a medical doctor (no pre-med, veterinarian or physician assistant)...

Linly Heflin Scholarship

The Linly Heflin scholarship awards Alabama women seeking help with their undergraduate degree at four-year accredited Alabama colleges and universities. Scholarships are awarded annually for four years or until graduation, whichever comes first. Scholarship Sponsor...

ACF Trythall Family Scholarship for Excellence in Continuing Education

Barbara and Duane Trythall recognize the difficulties faced by individuals who are working while furthering their education by attending a nonprofit or public educational institution of higher learning. The Trythall's established this fund to assist those individuals...

GLHF Career Development Scholarship

The Career Development Scholarship provides funding assistance for tuition and enrollment fees relevant to continuing education in a non-traditional or non-degree format. This scholarship is intended to promote career development for those living with bleeding...

Mike & Gail Donley Spouse Scholarships

The Air Force Spouse Scholarship program is designed to encourage Air Force spouses worldwide to pursue associate, bachelor or graduate/postgraduate degrees.Scholarship Sponsor Air Force AssociationAward Type $2500 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria...

Jo Caldwell Meyer Scholarship

Since 1989, WCA has donated more than $75,000 to support 50+ students in Central Texas via its scholarship efforts. Eligible Central Texas college students are encouraged to apply for the Jo Caldwell Meyer Scholarship.Scholarship Sponsor Women Communicators of...

Michael and Juanita Jordan Scholarship

Annual awards for Chicago, Illinois residents who are junior undergraduate students attending a UNCF member college or university. Scholarship Sponsor Michael & Juanita Jordan Award Type $5,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria:...

SMU Nancy Ann & Ray L. Hunt Leadership Scholars Program

Hunt Scholars are awarded full tuition and fees, less the amount of resident tuition and fees at the leading public university in the student's state of residency; for up to eight semesters or until graduation, whichever comes first as long as the student maintains...

Mel C. Marshall Student Scholarship

The Mel C. Marshall Student Scholarship was developed to encourage high school seniors or college students to enroll in careers related to the precast concrete industry and to provide opportunities for those students who receive financial support to liaise with CPCA....

Pilot Pen G2 Overachievers Student Grant

The G2 Overachievers Student Grant will be awarded to an outstanding young scholar who is making a real difference in others’ lives outside of the classroom. Scholarship Sponsor Pilot Corporation of AmericaAward Type $15,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther...

Donald H. Fey Memorial Scholarship Fund

The scholarship, a fund set up by Tina Fey's family, awards money to returning veterans who want to study journalism at Temple University's School of Media and Communication. Scholarship Sponsor Temple UniversityAward Type Varies CashGender Eligibility AllOther...

South Carolina LIFE Scholarship Program

The Legislative Incentive for Future Excellence (LIFE) Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship program administered by the financial aid office at each eligible public and independent college and university in South Carolina. The LIFE Scholarship may be used towards...

Colorado Christian University Dean’s Scholarship

CCU awards academic scholarships to new freshmen who meet specific academic requirements and are guaranteed for up to eight semesters as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress (SAP) and is continuously enrolled in CCU's College of Undergraduate...

Jesse L. Jackson-Fellows Toyota Scholarship

The Jesse Jackson Fellows-Toyota Scholarship is a renewable scholarship that awards up to $25,000 dollars annually to deserving African-American college sophomores. Scholarship Sponsor Push Excel Award Type $25,00 Cash Gender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria...

Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students: Where to Look