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

Going Back to School at 40, 50, or Beyond: Is It Worth the Cost?

Going back to school later in life is rarely a casual decision. It usually comes with a clear goal—changing careers, increasing income, or finally pursuing something meaningful. But the financial side can feel uncertain, especially when you’re weighing tuition costs...

Budgeting 101: How to Stretch Your College Dollars

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...

Degrees With the Best ROI: What Actually Pays Off?

Choosing a college major is one of the most consequential financial decisions a student will make, yet most people pick their field based on interest or gut instinct without ever seriously running the numbers on what that choice will actually return. Understanding...

Financial Aid for Adults Without a High School Diploma

Returning to school as an adult without a high school diploma can feel overwhelming—but it’s far from impossible. Whether your goal is to earn a GED, enroll in a vocational program, or eventually attend college, there are real financial aid options available to help...

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...

How to Maximize FAFSA: Getting the Most Out of Federal Aid

Every year, millions of students miss out on free financial aid simply because they don’t fully understand how the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) works—or how to make it work for them. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or renewing your form for...

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...

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...

The Ultimate Guide to College Applications

Applying to college can feel overwhelming, but breaking the process into manageable steps makes it much easier. Get step-by-step advice to craft a standout application, from choosing the right schools to nailing your personal statement. Start with Self-Reflection...

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...

EKU Patterson Business Scholarship

The Patterson Scholarship supports four-year students in any MMIB areas at Eastern Kentucky University.Scholarship Sponsor Eastern Kentucky UniversityAward Type $2,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: USA Criteria /...

The Loren Gruber Scholarship for Literary Studies

Missouri Valley College offers the Loren Gruber Scholarship for Literary Studies to incoming English majors. Applicants must have an ACT of 21 or an SAT of 976, and have a 3.0 GPA. Applicants must write a 500-word essay about their favorite book, blog, poem, play,...

Hawaii Association of Public Accountants Big Island Scholarship

HAPA’s Big Island Chapter provides up awards to accounting scholars and future accountants each year. Applicants need not attend institutions located in Hawaii, but they must be accredited and students must be enrolled full-time to receive this award. Scholarship...

Alabama Golf Association Women’s Scholarship Fund

The 2020 Scholarship is valued at $20,000 over four years ($2,500 per semester and renewed on a fall and spring semester basis for eight consecutive semesters), given that all Scholarship requirements are maintained. This is not an athletic scholarship, rather it is...

The Edmund F. Maxwell Foundation

The Maxwell Scholarship was established to assist high school seniors from Western Washington in obtaining a higher education.Scholarship Sponsor Edmund F Maxwell FoundationAward Type $20,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria:...

Frederick and Janelle Geihs Memorial Scholarship

Cheyenne High School in Clark County, NV or Liberty High School in Clark County, NV college-bound seniors with a 3.5 or higher GPA and who plan to major in education at an accredited college or university in Nevada may apply for this scholarship. Student must...

NJ Society of CPAs Four-Year Scholarship

The NJCPA Scholarship Fund awards $7,000 scholarships to college-bound New Jersey high school seniors intending to major in accounting or obtain a concentration in accounting which includes not less than 24 accounting credits. Scholarships are awarded based on...

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, have demonstrated such commitment through life experiences and have successfully completed a minimum of 12...

Susan T. Buffett Scholarship

Warren Buffett college scholarships are awarded each year by The Susan T. Buffett Foundation for kids who are doing well in school and want to study business. He has created a few foundations which help to give out these scholarships also he would like to encourage...

Helene M. Overly Memorial Graduate Scholarship

The Helene M. Overly Scholarship was established in 1981 to honor the first Executive Secretary of WTS for her dedicated service to the organization in public service, organizational abilities and a spirit of determination that helped WTS nearly double its membership...

Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons, Boulder City Lodge #37 F. & A.M. Scholarship

Boulder City High School seniors who have been involved in community service and plan to attend a two year college, four year college or trade school may apply for this scholarship. One scholarship in the amount of $500 will be awarded.Scholarship Sponsor The Public...

The Dolly Parton Scholarship

The Dolly Parton Scholarship is a $15,000 scholarship awarded annually at each high school. The scholarships are for students who have a dream they wish to pursue and who can successfully communicate their plan and commitment to realize their dreams.Scholarship...

Rhythm/Janet Jackson Scholarship

The Rhythm Nation/Janet Jackson Endowed Scholarship is open students at UNCF member institutions who are Communication Majors.Scholarship Sponsor UNCFAward Type $5,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: USA Criteria /...

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...

Alfred State Academic Distinction Scholarships

The Alfred State Academic Distinction Scholarship is awarded to first-time freshmen students who possess an 87 or better cumulative high school average through the end of their junior year; at least a 1140 combined SAT or 23 composite ACT score is required Scholarship...

Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students: Where to Look