Life doesn’t always follow a straight line—and neither does education. Maybe you left college years ago to raise a family. Perhaps financial hardships or the pandemic interrupted your path. Or you could be making a career shift and need a new degree to get there. No matter the reason, going back to school is an incredibly brave and powerful decision. And here’s the good news: there are Scholarships for Returning Students that can help make your comeback possible.
Many adults assume scholarships are just for recent high school grads. That’s simply not true. More organizations than ever before are recognizing the need to support non-traditional students—people like you—who are returning to college after a gap. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, 50s, or beyond, it’s never too late to pursue your education, and it’s certainly never too late to get help paying for it.
Why Going Back to College Is a Smart Move
Returning to college can feel overwhelming, especially when your friends or former classmates have already finished their degrees. But don’t let that discourage you. Higher education still provides one of the strongest paths to upward mobility, better income, and job satisfaction.
And after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, many institutions have opened their doors wider to returning students. From flexible class schedules to remote learning options, colleges are adapting to meet your needs. The timing may not be perfect, but the opportunity has never been better.
Consider this: More than 35 million adults in the U.S. have attended college but never completed a degree. Yet over a million of them have returned and finished in just the past five years. If they can do it, so can you.
Who Qualifies as a “Returning Student”?
You might be wondering if you actually count as a “returning student.” Generally, this term applies to anyone who is going back to college after a break of at least a year. That includes:
- Adults who started college but left before finishing
- Parents returning to school after raising children
- Workers retooling their skills for a new career
- Veterans adjusting to civilian life
- Anyone who took time off for financial, health, or personal reasons
If you see yourself in any of those situations, then yes, you qualify. And yes, there are Scholarships for Returning Students made just for you.
Types of Scholarships for Returning Students
Not all scholarships are built the same. Some are open to everyone, while others are tailored specifically for older or non-traditional students. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for:
General Scholarships
Many mainstream scholarships don’t have age limits or recent graduation requirements. These may be based on academic merit, community service, or a personal essay. The key is to carefully read the eligibility criteria—just because it’s popular with younger students doesn’t mean you can’t apply.
Scholarships for Women Returning to School
If you’re a woman returning to college after taking time off for family, work, or caregiving, there are many scholarship programs specifically designed for you. For instance, the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award offers up to $16,000 to help cover tuition, books, transportation, or childcare. Similarly, the AAUW Re-Entry Women Scholarship supports women who haven’t yet earned a bachelor’s degree but are now pursuing one to advance their careers.
Regional or Local Scholarships
These are often funded by community foundations and are a great place to start. For example, the GRCF Altrusa International of Grand Rapids Scholarship supports non-traditional students from select counties in Michigan who’ve been out of school for at least two years. Scholarships like these may not receive as many applicants, giving you better odds.
Scholarships from Foundations and Nonprofits
Organizations like the Arizona Business and Professional Women’s Foundation or the Herbert Lehman Education Fund provide meaningful financial aid to returning students who meet specific criteria. These programs are often mission-driven and may prioritize candidates who have shown resilience or service to their communities.
How to Find Scholarships That Fit You
One of the most important steps in applying for Scholarships for Returning Students is finding the ones that align with your story, background, and goals. Start by checking in with the financial aid office at your college. Many schools offer their scholarships for returning or non-traditional students, often funded by alumni or donors.
Don’t forget your current employer, especially if your degree relates to your job. Some companies offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs, and in some cases, they’ll pay for everything from your associate’s degree to a Ph.D.
Beyond your school or employer, websites like Scholarships.com and Scholarship America offer searchable databases with filters for adult learners or returning students. Look for phrases like “non-traditional,” “re-entry,” “adult learner,” or “financial need.”
Also, keep an eye on application deadlines. Here are a few scholarships you might consider for 2025:
| Scholarship Name | Amount | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award | Up to $16,000 | Nov 15, 2025 |
| GRCF Altrusa International Scholarship | $5,000 | Mar 1, 2026 |
| Arizona BPW Foundation Scholarship | $3,000 | Mar 15, 2026 |
| Herbert Lehman Education Fund | $12,000 | Apr 1, 2026 |
| AAUW Returning Scholar Scholarship | $4,500 | Apr 15, 2026 |
| AAUW Re-Entry Women Scholarship | $2,000 | May 1, 2026 |
What You’ll Need for Your Application
Applying for scholarships usually involves more than just filling out a form. Most programs will ask for:
- A personal statement or essay
- Letters of recommendation (from employers, mentors, teachers)
- Proof of enrollment or intent to enroll
- Financial documentation, if the scholarship is need-based
Take the time to tell your story. As a returning student, you have life experience and maturity that younger applicants may not have. Use that to your advantage when writing your essay. Share what led you to pause your education, and what inspired you to come back.
If a scholarship asks about challenges you’ve overcome, you likely have powerful, real-life examples. That authenticity and depth can set your application apart.
Financial Aid and the FAFSA
Don’t assume that scholarships are your only option. If you haven’t already, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as it opens (typically October 1 each year). FAFSA is not just for recent high school grads—it’s for anyone pursuing college-level education.
Many scholarships, especially those that consider financial need, also require a completed FAFSA or an alternative form like the FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment. Some programs, like Central Catholic High School’s endowed scholarships, have strict deadlines and will not accept late applications. The FACTS deadline for 2025 is January 31, and Central Catholic’s application closes on January 10, 2025.
Don’t Let Doubt Stop You
If you’re nervous or unsure about restarting your college journey, you’re not alone. Many students delay going back simply because the process feels intimidating. But here’s the truth: help is out there.
Talk to your school’s admissions office or a college counselor. Reach out to financial aid staff who can help walk you through your options. Even if you’re not sure where to start, just reaching out is a major first step.
And remember, your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Whether you’re attending a two-year college, completing a certificate, or aiming for a bachelor’s degree, every step forward counts.
FAQs About Scholarships for Returning Students
Do I need to be a full-time student to qualify for scholarships?
Not necessarily. Many scholarships allow for part-time enrollment, especially those designed for working adults or parents.
Are there age limits on scholarships?
Very few scholarships have age caps. Most are open to students of all ages as long as you meet the other criteria.
What if I have a low GPA or no recent academic record?
Some scholarships don’t require a recent GPA or standardized test score. Focus on those that emphasize essays or financial need.
Can I use scholarships to pay for more than tuition?
Yes. Some scholarships allow funds to cover books, transportation, childcare, and living expenses. Always check the award guidelines.
Is it worth applying even if I think I won’t win?
Absolutely. Many scholarships go unclaimed simply because people assume they won’t qualify. Apply anyway—you might be surprised.
Final Thoughts
The decision to go back to college is bold, empowering, and life-changing. It shows commitment, courage, and hope for a better future. Don’t let financial hurdles stand in your way. There are Scholarships for Returning Students waiting to support you—scholarships created by people who believe in second chances and the power of education at any age.
So start your search, write your story, and take that first step toward the future you deserve. You’ve got this.
