Scholarships for Adult Learners

Scholarships and Grants for Adults Going Back to School

Scholarships for Adult Learners

Many adult learners feel left out of the scholarship equation. However, there are many scholarships and grants dedicated to helping the non-traditional student achieve his or her educational goals.

Non-traditional scholarship opportunities will give both new, and returning, students an idea of what is available to those college-bound students who fit a different mold.

Grants for Adults Going Back to School

If you’re going back to school as an adult, you should first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The U.S. federal government and schools need to review your FAFSA to give you access to federal grants, loans and work-study programs. There are no age restrictions on federal aid — an adult learner completes the same FAFSA as a high school senior. Even if you don’t qualify for grants, you should still fill out the FAFSA to access federal and state-funded student loans. These loans typically have lower interest rates and more generous repayment terms than private student loans, helping you save money.

Grants you could use to go back to school as an adult.

  • Federal Pell Grant
  • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
  • Public Safety Memorial Grant (law enforcement)
  • Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant (TEACH)
  • Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants (IASG)

Last updated: 3/3/2023