Advice on Getting Scholarships and Grants as an Adult College Student?

I'm an adult high school junior planning to start college in the next few years. I'm wondering if there are scholarships and grants available specifically for older students or adult learners. How does the process differ, if at all?

Absolutely, there are indeed scholarships and grants available specifically for adult learners or non-traditional students, and these can be a vital source of funding for your education.

First, let's start with federal financial aid. You'll want to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal grants, work-study opportunities, and federal loans. The FAFSA determines your Student Aid Index (SAI), which is used to calculate how much financial aid you're eligible to receive. Keep in mind that while loans need to be repaid, grants do not. Unlike high school students whose parents' income is considered, as an adult student, your eligibility will be based primarily on your own income.

There's also a variety of scholarships that are targeted specifically at adult learners. These may be offered by private organizations, professional associations, nonprofits, or even the colleges themselves. They're typically awarded based on factors such as financial need, academic merit, field of study, and personal circumstances. Try Appily to find scholarships to apply for, they have a large database of scholarships.

The process of applying for these scholarships may not be vastly different than it is for traditional students. You'll still need to meet the eligibility criteria, submit application materials (which might include essays, letters of recommendation, or proof of enrollment), and pay attention to deadlines.

However, there are some unique considerations for adult learners. For example, some scholarships might be geared towards students returning to school after a period of work or those who have other commitments such as family.

In addition, some colleges and universities offer programs or scholarships specifically for adult learners or returning students. It's worth checking with the financial aid office at the schools you're considering to explore these opportunities.

Remember that timing is important with applying for financial aid and scholarships, so start researching and applying as early as possible. The sooner you start, the more chance you have to secure funds for your education.