Adult Learners: How to Find College Scholarships
Scholarships aren’t just for high school and traditional college students. If you’re an adult considering going to college for the first time or back to school to finish your degree, look in these five places to find college scholarships available to you.
Where to find college scholarships as an adult learner:
Your employer
Many employers have tuition reimbursement programs for employees who seek a degree in a field related to their current job. Alternately, companies may have a tuition discount arrangements with area colleges. For example, at Mount Mary University in Milwaukee, Wis., a corporate partnership program provides 5 to 50 percent tuition discounts to students from certain companies pursuing a range of degrees. Check with your company to see what discounts or scholarships are available.
Your intended college
Many colleges offer academic scholarships to students of all ages. Ask your admission counselor or a financial aid counselor what scholarships are available to students in your specific situation. Saint Leo University (FL) has a helpful guide to scholarships (both offered at the university and through external organizations) available to adult students.
Scholarship websites
Several of the same scholarship websites that have listings of opportunities for traditional college students (the students that enter directly from high school), also have scholarship listings for adult learners, too. Check out sites like Scholarships.com and Fastweb.com.
Local community and professional organizations
Local community organizations and professional associations offer a range of scholarships. Check for professional organizations in your city, state or region related to the college major you plan to study. In addition, check with local organizations such at the YWCA for other opportunities.
Military benefits
If you’re a veteran, check with the VA to see what educational benefits you may be eligible to receive. All or part of your education costs could be covered.
In addition, remember that tax credits or deductions may help lower the cost of your education and that federal financial aid may be available, so be sure to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year.
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