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 Planning for College as a Parent

Going back to school is a big decision, but going back while raising kids? That’s next-level. Whether you’re finishing a degree, starting one for the first time, or pursuing a career change, balancing parent life with college is no small task—especially when it comes...

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...

The Best Free Online Resources for College Students

College can be expensive, but that doesn’t mean you have to pay for everything. From study tools to financial management apps, there are plenty of free online resources designed to help students succeed. Whether you need help with coursework, budgeting, or staying...

Fast-Track Degree Options for Adults: Are They Worth It?

Going back to school as an adult can feel like juggling flaming swords—between work, family, and life, who has time for a traditional four-year degree? That’s where fast-track degree programs come in. Designed with adult learners in mind, these options promise to...

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 Options for DACA and Undocumented Students

Paying for college is tough enough — and it can be even harder if you’re undocumented or a DACA recipient. Federal financial aid is off the table, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. From private scholarships to in-state tuition programs and university...

Scholarships for Veterans and Military Families: How to Apply

For veterans, active-duty service members, and their families, pursuing higher education is not just a career goal—it’s a well-earned opportunity. But navigating how to pay for college can be confusing, especially when trying to combine GI Bill benefits, federal aid,...

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...

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...

Financial Aid vs. Scholarships: What’s the Difference?

Navigating college funding can be confusing, especially when terms like "financial aid" and "scholarships" are thrown around. Understand the key differences between these two funding sources and how to maximize both for your education. What is Financial Aid? Financial...

Gertrude M. Cox Scholarship

The Cox Scholarship, sponsored by the ASA Committee on Women in Statistics and Caucus for Women in Statistics, was established in 1989 to encourage more women to enter statistically oriented professions. Two scholarship recipients are selected each year: one woman in...

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...

MC Lyte Scholarship

#EducateOURMen is the signature educational initiative of Hip Hop Sisters Foundation that aims to support and develop males by providing academic scholarships to obtain baccalaureate degrees primarily from HBCU’s; provide access to career and personal mentoring; and...

Ohio Township Association Scholarship

The Ohio Township Association offers two types of scholarships: Local Government Achievement and Academic Achievement. For the local government achievement scholarship, students must demonstrate outstanding citizenship through service and participation in community...

Dell Scholars Program

College costs can be a significant burden for many students and their families. Nationally, 500 Dell Scholars are selected each year to receive a scholarship plus lots of non-monetary supports. All Dell Scholars receive: A $20,000 scholarship Personalized,...

Tennessee Minority Teaching Fellows Program

The Minority Teaching Fellows Program is intended to encourage talented minority Tennesseans to enter the teaching field in Tennessee. This award is for students who are pursing a teacher certification at an eligible Tennessee college or university. Scholarship...

Larry Bird Scholarship – CFGC

The Larry Bird Scholarship is available to students who are residents of Indiana and enrolled at a post-secondary Indiana school. Preference goes to disadvantaged youth who demonstrate financial need.Scholarship Sponsor Indiana State UniversityAward Type $2,000...

BURGER KING℠ McLamore Foundation

BURGER KING℠ McLamore Foundation, which was established in October 2005, is the charitable arm of the BURGER KING® system and is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization. The Foundation, together with Burger King Corporation employees, franchisees, suppliers...

Massachusetts Public Service Grant Program

The Massachusetts Public Service Grant Program was established in recognition of the hardship that a family experiences upon the loss of a parent and or spouse who is killed or missing in the line of public service duty in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This grant...

Taylor University President’s Scholarship

Students must have the required ACT or SAT score and GPA to receive the President's Award. SAT score is calculated by combining the Math and Reading portions of the test. The scholarship received is determined by adding GPA points and ACT/SAT points to find your total...

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 ExcelAward Type $25,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria...

Gertrud Delrogh Scholarship

CCSD Nevada seniors with a 2.80 or higher weighted GPA pursuing a degree in Liberal Arts may apply for this scholarship. Student must plan to attend an accredited college/university. One scholarship in the amount of $1,000 will be awarded.Scholarship Sponsor The...

National Buckeye Scholarship

Those considered are non-Ohio residents (U.S. citizens or permanent residents) who are highly competitive as demonstrated through grade point average, class rank (if available), and ACT or SAT scores (if available).Scholarship Sponsor Ohio State UniversityAward Type...

Santa Rosa Ninety-Nines Aviation Scholarship

The Santa Rosa 99s Aviation Scholarship awards a local woman pilot who holds at least a current private license, a current medical and a current flight review. Applicants should be planning a career in any area of aviation, with flight training or education in mind...

Tarleton State University Presidential Honors Program

Presidential Honors Scholars must maintain at least a 3.4 GPA. Presidential Honors Scholars must maintain at least a 3.4 cumulative Tarleton GPA. They must complete a minimum of 15 hours of solid academic courses every semester. Presidential honors scholars enroll in...

Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students: Where to Look