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.