by The USA Scholarship Guide Team | Mar 5, 2025 | Resources & Tips

Switching careers is a bold and exciting step, but going back to school for a new degree or certification can be expensive. Fortunately, many scholarships are designed specifically for adults who are making a career transition. Whether you’re moving from one industry to another, upgrading your skills, or starting over entirely, financial aid can help make your new path more affordable. Learn where to find scholarships for career changers and how to maximize your chances of getting funding.

Why Scholarships Matter for Career Changers

Many adults hesitate to return to school due to financial concerns, but scholarships provide free money that doesn’t need to be repaid. Unlike student loans, scholarships can help reduce or eliminate tuition costs, making a career change more accessible.

Some career-changing fields—such as healthcare, education, and technology—offer generous scholarship opportunities due to high demand for skilled workers. Others provide funding to individuals from underrepresented backgrounds or those transitioning out of military service. No matter your situation, there’s likely a scholarship designed for your journey.

Top Scholarships for Career Changers

1. The Unigo $10K Scholarship

Open to students of all ages pursuing a new degree or training.
Requires a short essay on how education will shape your future.
Award: $10,000

2. 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 based on financial need.

3. Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund

For low-income women age 35 and older who are pursuing a new career.
Must be enrolled in a technical, vocational, associate’s, or bachelor’s program.
Awards range from $2,000 to $5,000.

4. The Imagine America Foundation Adult Skills Education Program

Available to students age 19 and older seeking vocational or trade school training.
Designed for career changers looking for hands-on skills in growing industries.
Award: $1,000.

5. Return2College Scholarship

Open to students age 25 or older.
No GPA or financial need requirements.
Requires a 3-sentence essay on why you’re returning to school.
Award: $1,000.

Scholarships for Career Changers in High-Demand Fields

Some scholarships focus on specific industries that are actively seeking skilled professionals. If you’re transitioning into one of these fields, you may qualify for additional funding.

Healthcare & Nursing

6. The Tylenol Future Care Scholarship

For students pursuing degrees in healthcare, nursing, or medical-related fields.
Awards range from $5,000 to $10,000.

7. Nurse Corps Scholarship Program

Covers full tuition and fees for nursing students who commit to working in underserved communities after graduation.

Education & Teaching

8. The TEACH Grant

Provides up to $4,000 per year for students pursuing a teaching degree.
Requires a commitment to teaching in high-need schools for at least four years.

9. The Educators for Tomorrow Scholarship

For adults returning to school to become teachers or education professionals.
Awards range from $500 to $2,500.

STEM & Technology

10. Google Career Certificates Scholarship

Covers the cost of Google’s online certification programs in IT support, data analytics, project management, and UX design.

11. The Women Techmakers Scholarship

For women transitioning into computer science or engineering careers.
Award: Varies based on need.

Business & Entrepreneurship

12. The National Black MBA Association Scholarship

Supports adults pursuing MBAs or business-related degrees.
Award: $1,000 to $5,000.

13. The Hagan Scholarship

For adults returning to school to study business, finance, or management.
Covers tuition, books, and living expenses.

Where Else to Find Scholarships for Career Changers

Local Community Foundations

Many local and state organizations offer scholarships for career changers. Search for “[your state] career change scholarships” or check community college websites for funding opportunities.

Employer Tuition Assistance Programs

If you’re currently employed, check if your company offers tuition reimbursement for career advancement. Many businesses support employees who want to gain new skills or move into higher positions.

Professional Associations

Many industries have associations that offer scholarships to career changers. Examples include:

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) for women in new careers.
The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) for women entering STEM fields.
The National Restaurant Association for adults transitioning into culinary careers.

College Financial Aid Offices

When applying to schools, ask about:

Scholarships for adult learners.
Grants for career changers.
Work-study programs that fit around your schedule.

Tips for Winning Scholarships as a Career Changer

1. Highlight Your Unique Story

Scholarship committees love applicants who show determination, resilience, and a clear career vision. Share your journey—why you’re switching careers, what challenges you’ve faced, and how this scholarship will help you succeed.

2. Apply for Multiple Scholarships

Many non-traditional students underestimate the number of scholarships available to them. Apply to as many as possible to increase your chances of receiving funding.

3. Meet Deadlines and Follow Directions

Missing a deadline or failing to submit required documents could disqualify your application. Stay organized by creating a scholarship calendar and setting reminders.

4. Write a Strong Personal Statement

A compelling essay can make you stand out. Explain:

Why you’re changing careers.
How this scholarship will help you achieve your goals.
What impact you hope to make in your new field.

5. Get Strong Letters of Recommendation

Ask professors, employers, or mentors to write letters that highlight your work ethic, leadership skills, and potential for success in your new field.

Final Thoughts

Changing careers is a big decision, but financial aid can make it easier. Scholarships for career changers provide the financial support needed to earn a second degree, gain new certifications, or enter a growing industry without overwhelming debt. Whether you’re pursuing healthcare, education, STEM, business, or a skilled trade, there are scholarships designed to help. Explore these opportunities, apply early, and take the next step toward your new career with confidence.

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Scholarships for Career Changers: Financial Aid for a Fresh Start