As an adult learner, the pursuit of higher education can feel like a daunting task—balancing work, family, and financial responsibilities. However, adult learners today have more opportunities than ever to pursue their academic dreams. One of the most effective ways to reduce the financial burden of returning to school is through scholarships. Fortunately, there are a variety of easy scholarships for adult learners that can make your journey to a degree more affordable and less stressful.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best scholarship opportunities available to adult learners, along with tips to help you successfully navigate the application process.
1. Pell Grants for Adult Learners
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Award Amount: Varies (up to $6,495 for the 2023-2024 academic year)
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Eligibility: U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens, enrolled in a degree or certificate program, demonstrating financial need.
The Pell Grant is one of the most well-known forms of federal financial aid, and adult learners are equally eligible to apply. The Pell Grant provides financial assistance to those with demonstrated financial need and is available to students of all ages, including adults returning to school. Unlike loans, Pell Grants do not need to be repaid, making them a great resource for adult learners looking to ease tuition costs.
To apply, you’ll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The application is straightforward, but be sure to meet all deadlines and provide accurate financial information.
2. **Adult Student Scholarship by the American Association of University Women (AAUW)
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Award Amount: $2,000 - $12,000
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Eligibility: Female U.S. citizens or permanent residents, 25 years or older, pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree.
The AAUW’s Adult Student Scholarship is designed for women who are returning to school after a gap in their education. With a focus on supporting mature students, this scholarship helps women advance in their careers, attain financial independence, and pursue their academic goals.
The application process typically requires an essay about your academic and career goals, as well as proof of enrollment. Be sure to highlight how this scholarship will contribute to your success.
3. The Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
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Award Amount: Up to $2,000 per year
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Eligibility: Low-income women aged 35 or older, pursuing an accredited college or vocational program.
The Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund offers scholarships to women who are over 35 years old and looking to complete their degree or pursue vocational training. This scholarship is particularly aimed at supporting women from low-income backgrounds.
As an adult learner, you’ll likely have the experience of balancing work and school, which is a plus for this scholarship. The application process is simple and includes a personal statement, proof of financial need, and a demonstration of your academic goals.
4. The AARP Foundation’s Women’s Scholarship Program
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Award Amount: $1,000 - $3,000
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Eligibility: Women over 50 years old, enrolled in an accredited two-year or four-year institution.
The AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship Program is specifically designed for women aged 50 and older who are reentering the workforce or pursuing a degree to further their careers. This scholarship aims to provide financial support for women who want to earn a college degree and improve their job prospects.
Applications typically require proof of enrollment, academic transcripts, and an essay detailing your educational and career goals. This program is an excellent way for older adult learners to access financial resources as they transition back into education.
5. Scholarships for Veterans and Military Families
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Award Amount: Varies
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Eligibility: Military veterans, active-duty members, and their families.
If you are a veteran or a family member of someone who has served in the military, there are numerous scholarships available specifically for you. Some of the most well-known include the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which covers tuition and living expenses, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Scholarship programs.
Many colleges and universities also offer scholarships for military veterans and their dependents, so it’s worth researching opportunities directly with your school’s veteran services office. These scholarships can help cover a wide range of expenses, from tuition to books and supplies, making them a valuable resource for adult learners with a military background.
6. The UNCF Scholarships for Adult Learners
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Award Amount: Varies
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Eligibility: U.S. citizens, enrolled in an accredited HBCU (Historically Black College and University).
The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) offers a variety of scholarships for students of all ages, with a special emphasis on African American students. The UNCF has partnerships with numerous colleges and universities, making it an excellent resource for adult learners pursuing a degree at an HBCU.
Scholarships through UNCF may require a brief application form, essay, or personal statement, as well as proof of enrollment. Given the organization’s longstanding commitment to supporting underrepresented students, the UNCF is a great option for adult learners seeking financial support.
7. Career-Specific Scholarships for Adult Learners
If you are pursuing a specific career or field of study, there are often scholarships available that are tailored to your chosen profession. These scholarships are designed to encourage individuals to enter and succeed in various industries, such as healthcare, technology, education, and more.
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Nursing Scholarships: Many healthcare organizations and schools offer scholarships specifically for adult learners entering the nursing profession.
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STEM Scholarships: If you are returning to school to pursue a degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, several organizations provide scholarships for adult learners interested in STEM fields.
Check with professional associations related to your field to learn about specific scholarships available to adult learners.
8. The “Return to Learn” Scholarship Program
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Award Amount: Varies
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Eligibility: U.S. students 25 years or older who have returned to school after a hiatus.
The Return to Learn Scholarship Program is designed to assist adult learners who have taken a break from their education and are now seeking to complete their degree. Many community organizations, as well as state and federal agencies, offer "returning student" scholarships aimed at helping adults reenter the academic world.
These scholarships often focus on students who have demonstrated determination to return to school after a break, and the application process is typically straightforward, often requiring only proof of enrollment and a personal statement.
9. Scholarships for Online Learners
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Award Amount: Varies
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Eligibility: Enrolled in an accredited online degree program.
With the rise of online education, many adult learners now pursue degrees entirely online. Many scholarships are specifically aimed at those enrolled in online degree programs, whether they are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree.
Organizations like Capella University and University of Phoenix often provide scholarships for online learners, helping to offset tuition costs for students studying remotely. Look for scholarships offered by the school you are attending or plan to attend, as they may have specific funds dedicated to online students.
10. State-Specific Scholarships
Many states offer scholarships specifically for residents who are returning to school. These state-based scholarships are often easier to apply for than national scholarships and may come with less competition.
Some examples include:
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California’s Returning Student Grant
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New York’s Adult Learner Scholarship Program
Check with your state’s department of education or local universities to find scholarships tailored to adult learners in your area.