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

10 Study Hacks for College Success

College classes can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can stay on top of your coursework and excel academically. Uncover these simple yet effective study techniques to boost your skills and ace your classes. Create a Study Schedule Time management is...

Essential Tips for Acing College Interviews

College interviews are your chance to make a lasting impression beyond your application. Master the art of showcasing your personality, goals, and enthusiasm with these essential tips for acing admissions and scholarship interviews. Understand the Purpose of the...

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...

Scholarship Application 101: Your Guide to Success

Applying for scholarships can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re heading to college, trade school, or looking for financial help with continuing education, scholarships can make a big difference. Dive into this guide to uncover the basics and...

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...

Should You Refinance Your Student Loans? Pros and Cons Explained

Refinancing student loans can look like an easy win. Lower interest rates, smaller monthly payments, and a simpler repayment structure are all appealing on the surface. But refinancing is not just a rate adjustment. It is a structural change that can affect your...

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...

Merit-Based vs. Need-Based Scholarships: What’s the Difference?

Why It Matters to Know the Difference When it comes to paying for college, scholarships can make a major dent in your expenses—but not all scholarships are created equal. Understanding the difference between merit-based and need-based scholarships can help you target...

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,...

How Internships Can Help You Get Ahead in Your Career

Landing your dream job often requires more than just a degree—real-world experience is key. That’s where internships come in. Whether paid or unpaid, internships provide valuable skills, networking opportunities, and hands-on experience that can give you a competitive...

Colonel Nate Smith Scholarship

The Colonel Nate Smith Scholarship awards three $1,000 scholarships to enlisted Marines, Sailors, and spouses/dependents of MCRD San Diego/the WRR. Scholarship Sponsor MCRD Command Museum Award Type $1,000 CashGender Eligibility All Other Requirements/Criteria...

Women Techmakers Scholars Program

Through the Women Techmakers Scholars Program - formerly the Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship Program - Google is furthering Dr. Anita Borg's vision of creating gender equality in the tech industry by encouraging women to excel as active participants and leaders...

Diversity Leadership Project Scholarship

Diversity Leadership Project is a national organization dedicated to bringing the voices of high school students to the forefront on issues of diversity, racism, and inclusion, as well as other related issues teens face today. Our blog offers a place where the most...

Allegiant’s Careers in Aviation Scholarship

Rancho High School, Clark County, Nevada, graduating seniors currently enrolled in the Aviation Magnet Program at Rancho High School may apply for this scholarship. Student must have a 3.5 or higher weighted GPA and plan to pursue a career in aviation at a...

The Mike Molino RV Learning Center’s Scholarship Program

The Mike Molino RV Learning Center's Scholarship Program encourages deserving college undergraduates majoring in business, finance, economics, accounting or other RV industry-related subjects to apply for the award. The program provides financial assistance to help...

Scholarship Application Mistakes to Avoid

Applying for scholarships is one of the best ways to reduce college costs, but even the most qualified students can lose out on funding due to simple mistakes. A strong application can mean the difference between winning free money for school or missing out on...

Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation

Applicants for the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation must be the child of an active duty or reserve U.S. Marine, a veteran U.S. Marine who has received an honorable discharge, or who was killed while serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. Children of U.S. Navy Corpsmen,...

Kobrin Family Scholarship

The Kobrin Family Scholarship is awarded to a qualified student from Orange, Osceola or Seminole County who will be attending the University of Central Florida. Please note that this scholarship is only available to students of the Jewish faith.Scholarship Sponsor...

Boise State WUE Award

Students must be admitted as degree-seeking to be considered for scholarships. By completing the admissions application and meeting the criteria listed below, you will automatically be considered for the scholarship without an additional application. Scholarship...

The Dan Van Dyke Scholarship

The Dan Van Dyke Scholarship award is to provide college scholarship awards to students who have shown life passion to the service of those in the community around themScholarship Sponsor The Van Dyke foundationAward Type $1,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther...

West Virginia PROMISE Scholarships

The PROMISE (Providing Real Opportunities for Maximizing In-State Student Excellence) Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship program that is designed to make college more affordable to all qualified West Virginia students.Scholarship Sponsor Dell ScholarsAward Type...

Disciples Leadership Program

This top-tier, competitive scholarship is awarded to first-time freshmen based on leadership, academic excellence, and the commitment to explore during college a life of faith-based servant leadership.Scholarship Sponsor Eureka CollegeAward Type $6,000 CashGender...

Edward D. Hendrickson SAE Engineering Scholarship

The Edward D. Hendrickson SAE Engineering Scholarship was established in memory of the late Edward D. Hendrickson. Hendrickson was deeply committed to the truck industry and was considered one of the foremost authorities on truck suspensions in the nation. He was...

Furman University Furman Scholars Program

The Furman Scholars program seeks to honor high school juniors who exhibit strong academic potential, demonstrate leadership potential, and show significant involvement in extracurricular activities and community service. High school guidance counselors nominate...

ABA Academic Merit Scholarship

The American Bus Association Academic Merit Scholarship is open to both ABA and non-ABA MembersScholarship Sponsor American Bus AssociationAward Type $5,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: USA Criteria / Requirements:...

Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students: Where to Look