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 Turn Campus Jobs Into Career Experience

For many college students, a campus job is simply a way to pay for books, food, or late-night coffee runs. You might be working in the dining hall, shelving books at the library, or checking IDs at the gym. At first glance, these roles might not feel like they connect...

How to Pay Off Student Loans Faster Without Burning Out

Student loans can feel like a long-term companion you never asked for—one that lingers long after graduation. With the average U.S. graduate owing over $30,000, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start. But here’s the good news: paying off student loans...

The Best Essay-Based Scholarships with Minimal Requirements

When it comes to landing college scholarships, many students assume that top GPAs and perfect SAT scores are the only tickets to free money. But in reality, there’s a whole category of scholarships where your grades matter far less than your ability to write a...

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 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...

Creating a Study Space That Actually Works

Studying at home sounds easy—until the laundry, dishes, and Netflix start calling your name. Whether you're taking online classes or just need a spot to focus between shifts or after the kids are asleep, a dedicated study space can make a huge difference in how...

Returning to School After a Break: What You Need to Know

Going back to school after a break can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a chance to chase new goals and open doors to better opportunities. Whether you’re starting fresh or finishing what you started, returning to school as an adult requires planning, focus, and a bit...

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...

Transitioning from College to Career: How to Make a Smooth Financial Shift After Graduation

Graduating from college is a major milestone, but the financial transition that follows can feel overwhelming. Paychecks replace financial aid. Rent replaces dorm housing. Bills arrive regularly, and no one reminds you when they are due. The shift from student life to...

How to Graduate With Less Debt: Smart Choices from Day One

Student loan debt doesn’t happen overnight. It builds semester by semester, decision by decision. The good news is that reducing how much you borrow often starts long before graduation—sometimes even before your first class. From choosing the right school to managing...

Chicago Roofing Contractors Association (CRCA) Scholarship

The Chicago Roofing Contractors Association (CRCA) will grant two renewable scholarships, to two high school seniors residing in the following Illinois Counties: Boone, Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, Stephenson, Will or...

John Lennon Scholarships

Yoko Ono and Gibson Musical Instruments founded these memorial scholarships in order to help the next great musical artists. The competition requires students to submit an original song, complete with lyrics and a recording with the accompanying instrument....

Creative Biolabs Scholarship Program

As a leading custom service provider specialized in the field of antibody production and engineering, Creative Biolabs is always happy to support young and ambitious talents in our field. Scholarship Sponsor Creative Biolabs Award Type $1,000 Cash Gender Eligibility...

VFW Voice of Democracy Competition

The Voice of Democracy audio-essay provides high school students with the opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Scholarship Sponsor VFWAward Type $30,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria...

AMWA Haffizulla Family Scholarship

The Haffizulla Family Scholarship Fund was founded by former AMWA President Dr. Farzanna Haffizulla. This scholarship is meant to perpetuate the involvement of young leaders in disease prevention and national health and wellness.Scholarship Sponsor American Medical...

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...

Jake Brandon Harris Scholarship

One $1,500 Jake Brandon Harris Scholarship will be awarded to a deserving student.Scholarship Sponsor In Memory of Jake Brandon HarrisAward Type $1,500 CashGender Eligibility AllOther Requirements/Criteria Geographic Criteria: USA Criteria / Requirements: Applicants...

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...

Augustana College Distinguished Scholar Competition

Augustana College invites graduating high school seniors who possess strong records of academic achievement and have demonstrated exceptional leadership to their school and community to participate in the Distinguished Scholars Competition, the college's most...

CC Bank’s Young Scholars Scholarship

CC Bank's Young Scholars Scholarship offers up to five (5) $2,000 scholarships to students attending universities, colleges and other academic institutions across the U.S. Scholarship Sponsor CC BankAward Type $2,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther...

Oprah Winfrey Campaign for a New Century Scholarship

This award is designated for students who demonstrate both academic merit and financial need. Recipients of the Opran Winfrey Campaign for a New Century Scholarship are expected to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or have a combination of strong academic...

The Kim and Harold Louie Family Foundation Scholarship Program

The Kim and Harold Louie Family Foundation is for high school seniors and college students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership qualities, community service and/or outstanding personal achievements. Special consideration will be given to students with...

Horatio Alger National Scholarship

The Horatio Alger National Scholarship Program specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives. Scholarship Sponsor Horatio Alger AssociationAward Type $25,000 CashGender Eligibility AllOther...

SMU Nancy Ann & Ray L. Hunt Leadership Scholars Program

Hunt Scholars are awarded full tuition and fees, less the amount of resident tuition and fees at the leading public university in the student's state of residency; for up to eight semesters or until graduation, whichever comes first as long as the student maintains...

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...

Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students: Where to Look