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

How to Find Scholarships That Fit Your Unique Background

Scholarships can open the door to a debt-free education, but finding the right ones requires knowing where to look. Many scholarships are tailored to specific groups or interests, meaning your unique background could qualify you for financial aid others can’t access....

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...

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...

Scholarships That Don’t Require Essays: Where to Find Them

Not every scholarship requires hours of writing. While essays are common, there’s a growing number of opportunities that skip them entirely. These scholarships can be a smart way to increase your chances of winning without adding more stress to your workload. Why...

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...

Study Hacks for Busy Students: How to Learn More in Less Time

Balancing school with work, family, and other responsibilities can feel overwhelming, especially when there’s limited time to study. The good news? You don’t need to spend hours buried in textbooks to learn effectively. With the right study strategies, you can absorb...

How to Choose a College Based on Financial Aid Packages (Not Just Rankings)

The college selection process in the United States has become so thoroughly organized around rankings that many students and families treat the ranked list as the primary decision-making framework and fit financial considerations around it afterward. That sequencing...

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...

Study Abroad Scholarships: How to Fund Your International Experience

Studying abroad is one of the most transformative experiences a student can have—an opportunity to explore new cultures, gain global perspective, and build valuable independence. But it’s no secret that international education can be expensive. From airfare to housing...

Scholarships for Students in Foster Care or Aging Out of the System: National and State Programs That Open Doors

For students who have experienced foster care, the path to college often comes with added obstacles. Frequent school changes, limited financial support, and housing instability can make higher education feel out of reach. Yet across the country, scholarships and...

Patrick and Eileen Smyth Endowed Scholarship

The Patrick and Eileen Smyth Endowed Scholarship is open to Cal Poly SLO students who have overcome personal tragedy, adversity, or hardship and have succeeded in pursuing their academic goals. Scholarship Sponsor Cal Poly International CenterAward Type $7,500...

Peyton Manning scholarship

The Peyton Manning Scholarship honors Peyton Manning, a 1998 alumnus who distinguished himself through academic achievement, community involvement, and athletic accomplishments.Scholarship Sponsor University of TennesseeAward Type Varies CashGender Eligibility...

Nebraska Democratic Women’s Caucus Inspiring Women Scholarship

The Nebraska Democratic Women's Caucus Inspiring Women Scholarship is awarded to Nebraska Democratic women who are active in their communities and progressive politics. Scholarship Sponsor Nebraska Democratic Women’s CaucusAward Type $500 CashGender Eligibility...

Southwestern University Brown Scholarship

The Brown Scholarship is Southwestern’s most prestigious and competitive award. Scholarship Sponsor Southwestern UniversityAward Type $33,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: USA Criteria / Requirements: Candidates must rank...

Georgia Mining Foundation Scholarship Program

To assist worthy students in Georgia (and who plan on attending a Georgia college/university) with college tuitionScholarship Sponsor The Georgia Mining AssociationAward Type $1,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: Georgia...

Judy Corman Memorial Scholarship and Internship from Scholastic

The Judy Corman Memorial Scholarship and Internship from Scholastic is awarded to a student interested in communications and media relations and is a rising junior/senior in college who is able to fulfill a paid internship at the company's New York City headquarters...

Missouri Corn Scholarship

The Missouri Corn Growers Association and Missouri Corn Merchandising Council awards deserving college juniors and high school seniors $1000 scholarships for the coming academic year. Scholarship Sponsor Missouri Corn Award Type $1,000 Cash Gender Eligibility All...

Villa Park Junior Women’s Club Scholarship

Every year, the VPJWC sponsors a scholarship to benefit a female Villa Park student. This scholarship promotes and rewards women’s involvement in a variety of community service activities.Scholarship Sponsor Villa Park Junior Women’s ClubAward Type $1500 CashGender...

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...

Ripon College William J. Woolley History Scholarship

Dr. Woolley invites all admitted students who have an interest in pursuing history as a major on campus to apply for this scholarship.Scholarship Sponsor Ripon CollegeAward Type $10,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: USA...

The Anthony Muñoz Scholarship Fund

The Anthony Muñoz Scholarship Fund was created by Anthony Muñoz and his family to support Greater Cincinnati high school youth in achieving their dreams of attending a local college or university. Scholarship Sponsor Munoz FoundationAward Type $20,000 CashGender...

Students of History Scholarship

The Students of History Scholarship is offered to a graduating high school senior. Eligible applicants must: plan on attending an accredited post-secondary institution next year; complete at least 3 social studies or history classes in high school; and, have the...

Colonel Aaron Burgstein Memorial Scholarship

The scholarship was established for minor dependents of (officer or enlisted) active duty, retired, or prior service members of all branches, reservists or National Guard members who are/will be pursuing a two-year or four-year degree at an accredited...

Military Scholarship

Optimal is awarding $5,000 need-based scholarships to active military and veteran students.Scholarship Sponsor OptimalAward Type $5,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: Legal residents of the United States (excluding Rhode...

The LeBron James Family Foundation Scholarship

The Lebron James Family Foundation Scholarship was established by basketball star Lebron James and pays for four years of tuition at the University of Akron for more than 2,000 at-risk students.Scholarship Sponsor The LeBron James Family FoundationAward Type $5,000...

Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students: Where to Look