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 Single Parents: How to Get Help Paying for College

Going back to school as a single parent can be a challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to create a brighter future for you and your family. Thankfully, there are scholarships and financial aid programs specifically designed to support single parents in achieving...

How to Choose Between Online, In-Person, and Hybrid Classes

Picking the right class format is a bigger deal than it used to be. With online, in-person, and hybrid options now available for everything from community college to master’s degrees, students have more flexibility—but also more decisions to make. Each learning format...

How to Save Money on College Textbooks (Legally)

College is already expensive enough—tuition, housing, meal plans, and yes, those infamous textbooks. The average college student spends over $1,200 a year on books and supplies, but it doesn’t have to be that way. With a few smart (and totally legal) strategies, you...

How to Access Free or Low-Cost Childcare While You Study

Balancing school and parenting can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding affordable childcare. For student parents, the high cost of daycare can make pursuing an education feel out of reach. The good news? There are free and low-cost childcare options...

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...

Mental Health Resources for College Students: How to Stay Balanced

College can be an exciting but stressful time. Between academic pressure, financial stress, and personal challenges, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news? You don’t have to handle everything alone. Many mental health resources are available to help students...

Is Community College a Smart Choice for Adult Learners?

Rethinking the College Path For adult learners going back to school, community college often flies under the radar. But with flexible schedules, lower costs, and programs designed to fast-track careers, it might just be one of the smartest moves you can make. Whether...

How to Choose the Right College for Your Needs

Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions you’ll make, and it’s not just about academics. Explore factors like cost, location, programs, and campus culture to find the best fit for your goals. Start with Self-Reflection Before diving into college...

How to Create a Budget as a College Student

Managing money in college can feel overwhelming, but creating a budget is one of the best ways to stay on top of your finances. Whether you’re dealing with financial aid, part-time income, or family support, budgeting helps you take control and avoid unnecessary debt....

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...

AMWA Medical Student Kaplan Scholarships

National AMWA is partnered with Kaplan to provide scholarships for Kaplan Medical Test Prep. Each scholarship can be used towards Kaplan Test Prep for the USMLE or COMLEX exams. Scholarship Sponsor American Medical Women's AssociationAward Type $1000 CashGender...

John Caoile Memorial Scholarship

Durango High School Clark County, Nevada, AFJROTC Program seniors who plan to attend an accredited post-secondary institution and have excelled in the areas of leadership, community service and extra-curricular activities may apply. Other requirements include a...

Jim & Anna Hyonjoo Lint Scholarship

The Jim & Anna Hyonjoo Lint National Security Scholarships offers to help further the education and career development of scholars, especially in the areas of International Affairs, Counterintelligence and National Security. Workers in these fields and their...

Albanian Community Scholarship

The goal of this award to reward students who display the highest moral standards by being an active contributor to their community. The Albanian Community Scholarship will award three (3) high school seniors the amount of $500 (each).Scholarship Sponsor AAMCAward...

Simone Biles Legacy Scholarship Fund

University of the People and Simone Biles, Olympic champion gymnast and UoPeople student, are proud to announce the Simone Biles Legacy Scholarship Fund. This fund provides support to UoPeople students to help cover course Assessment Fees, with priority given to those...

Lt. Col. Romeo and Josephine Bass Ferretti Scholarship

This scholarship is made possible by a bequest from the estate of Lt Col Romeo and Josephine Bass Ferretti and was established for minor dependents of active duty or retired Air Force, Air Force Reserve or Air National Guard enlisted Airmen. It is for students...

Triadex Services Scholarship

The Triadex Services Scholarship Program supports college students each year with scholarships for recipients who excel academically and in service to others. Most Triadex Services Scholarship recipients share a passion for marketing, entrepreneurship, technology and...

Iowa Farm Bureau Scholarship

Iowa Farm Bureau Federation awards 54 students $1,000 scholarships on an annual basis. Scholarship Sponsor Eaton Family Credit UnionAward Type $1,000 Cash Gender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: Iowa Criteria / Requirements: Sons and...

Women’s Overseas Service League Scholarship

Women's Overseas Service League scholarship assistance may be granted to women who are committed to advancement in military or other public service careers. Scholarship Sponsor Women Overseas Service League Award Type $2,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther...

Associated Grocers – Sam S. Politz Scholarship Fund

This fund was established through the generosity of the members of Associated Grocers Inc. of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This scholarship is dedicated to the memory of Sam S. Politz, a former President and CEO of Associated Grocers Inc. Students must be Louisiana high...

Prep Expert Clark High School SAT Excellence Scholarship

Clark High School sophomores, juniors or seniors who scored 1500 or higher on the SAT may apply for this $500 college scholarship.Scholarship Sponsor The Public Education FoundationAward Type $500 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic...

Women’s Western Golf Foundation Scholarship

The WWGF charitable trust was formed to receive and distribute funds to advance women in scholastic achievement and intercollegiate golf program. Scholarship Sponsor Women's Western Golf FoundationAward Type $2500 CashGender Eligibility FemaleOther...

Donna Nicholas Life Long Dreams Scholarship

CCSD Nevada High school seniors who have completed three years or more of a foreign language and have a 3.1 or higher GPA. Student must be planning to attend UNR as a full time student. One scholarship in the amount of $500.00 will be awarded.Scholarship Sponsor The...

Elizabeth Garde National Scholarship

The Danish Sisterhood of America is very proud of its Scholarship and Grant Program. We have four different scholarships, one of which presently offers eight awards per year, and one grant program offering ten awards annually – five are given in February (the “January...

Eaton Family Credit Union Member Scholarships

For the Eaton Family Credit Union College Scholarship, $14,000 in scholarship money will be provided to Members who are seniors graduating high school in 2021. Two scholarships of $5,000 each will be available for students planning to attend a 4-year college or...

Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students: Where to Look