EWP 
If you’re a non-traditional student, you may feel like the path to higher education is more complicated than for those following the “traditional” route of attending college right after high school. However, the reality is that more and more people are pursuing degrees later in life, switching careers, or balancing school with family and work responsibilities. The good news? There are scholarships specifically designed to support non-traditional students like you.
Whether you’ve been out of school for years, are a working professional looking to upskill, a single parent, or even a veteran, numerous organizations and institutions offer financial aid to help make your academic dreams a reality. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best scholarships available for non-traditional students, how to find them, and tips for applying.
1. Who Qualifies as a Non-Traditional Student?
Before we dive into the scholarships, it’s important to understand what it means to be a non-traditional student. This term can apply to a wide range of people who don’t fit the typical mold of an 18–22-year-old attending college full-time immediately after high school.
Here are some common characteristics of non-traditional students:
- Adult Learners: Individuals who are returning to school after taking time off from formal education, often to pursue a career, raise a family, or for personal reasons.
- Part-Time Students: Students who balance their studies with work or other responsibilities and can only attend college part-time.
- Career Changers: Professionals who are pursuing education to switch fields or advance in their current careers.
- Parents: Many non-traditional students are also parents, balancing family life and school.
- Veterans or Active Duty Military: Individuals who have served in the military and are now transitioning to civilian life, often seeking educational opportunities.
If you fall into any of these categories, you’re not alone—and there are plenty of financial resources available to help you on your educational journey.
2. Types of Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students
Just like traditional scholarships, non-traditional student scholarships come in various forms. Whether you’re returning to school after years in the workforce, pursuing higher education part-time, or balancing school with family life, there’s a scholarship out there for you. Here are the main types:
- Merit-Based Scholarships: These are awarded based on academic performance, leadership, or other achievements, often with less emphasis on age or background.
- Need-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on financial need and aim to support those who might struggle to afford education without assistance.
- Scholarships for Career Changers: Some scholarships specifically target individuals looking to switch careers and pursue a new degree or field of study.
- Military and Veteran Scholarships: Many organizations offer scholarships for veterans, active-duty service members, and their families as they transition to civilian life.
- Parent Scholarships: These are aimed at students who are also parents and need financial support while balancing family and education.
Next, let’s take a look at some of the top scholarships available for non-traditional students across various categories.
3. Top Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students
Here’s a curated list of some of the best scholarships for non-traditional students. While this list isn’t exhaustive, it provides a great starting point for your scholarship search.
1. Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship is specifically aimed at low-income women, particularly mothers, who are pursuing higher education to better their lives and the lives of their families.
- Eligibility: Open to women with minor children, enrolled in an accredited institution, and earning a low income.
- Amount: Up to $5,000 per student.
- Deadline: Applications are usually due in early August.
2. Jeanette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
This scholarship supports low-income women aged 35 and older who are pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree. It aims to help women who are returning to school later in life achieve their educational goals.
- Eligibility: U.S. women aged 35 or older, enrolled in or accepted to an accredited institution.
- Amount: Varies, based on need and availability.
- Deadline: Applications typically open in November and close in February.
3. Imagine America Adult Skills Education Program
This scholarship program is designed for adult learners and non-traditional students attending participating career colleges. It helps individuals looking to improve their skills in specific career fields such as healthcare, business, and skilled trades.
- Eligibility: Adult learners age 19 and older, enrolled in a participating college program.
- Amount: Up to $1,000 per scholarship.
- Deadline: Rolling applications throughout the year.
4. Return2College Scholarship
This scholarship is open to anyone age 17 or older who is returning to college or planning to do so. It’s a flexible opportunity for non-traditional students regardless of their career path or academic goals.
- Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen and at least 17 years old, planning to enroll in a college or university.
- Amount: $1,000 per recipient.
- Deadline: Typically due in January or May.
5. Osher Reentry Scholarship Program
The Osher Reentry Scholarship provides financial aid to students who are returning to school after a gap in their education. This program supports students who are pursuing their first undergraduate degree and have experienced an interruption in their schooling.
- Eligibility: Open to students aged 25-50 who have at least a five-year gap in their education and are pursuing their first bachelor’s degree.
- Amount: Awards vary by institution, as the program is administered by partner schools.
- Deadline: Varies by institution.
6. Veterans United Foundation Scholarship
For veterans and military families, this scholarship is designed to help those who have served the country pursue higher education. It’s open to veterans and surviving spouses or children of deceased service members.
- Eligibility: Open to veterans and their family members pursuing a post-secondary degree.
- Amount: Up to $20,000 per student.
- Deadline: Applications are generally due in April and October.
7. Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) Scholarship
The ASIST scholarship, offered by Executive Women International, supports adult students who are returning to school to improve their career prospects. The program is aimed at individuals facing economic, social, or physical challenges.
- Eligibility: Open to non-traditional students with financial need or facing significant challenges.
- Amount: Awards vary, with most ranging from $2,000 to $10,000.
- Deadline: Applications typically close in March.
4. How to Apply for Non-Traditional Student Scholarships
Applying for scholarships as a non-traditional student may feel overwhelming, but with the right strategy, you can significantly improve your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you stand out in the application process:
- Research Early: Start looking for scholarships well before you plan to enroll in school. Many scholarships have early deadlines, so give yourself plenty of time to gather the necessary materials.
- Tailor Your Application: Customizing your application materials for each scholarship can make a huge difference. Focus on your unique experiences, background, and goals as a non-traditional student.
- Write a Compelling Personal Statement: This is your chance to tell your story. Highlight why you’re returning to school, what you hope to achieve, and how the scholarship will help you overcome any obstacles you’re facing.
- Gather Strong Recommendations: Ask for recommendation letters from supervisors, colleagues, or educators who can speak to your work ethic, determination, and ability to succeed as a student.
- Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines, required documents, and other application details. Missing a deadline or document could disqualify you.
5. Conclusion: Your Path to Higher Education Is Possible
Returning to school as a non-traditional student is an incredibly courageous decision. Whether you’re pursuing a new career, finishing a degree you started years ago, or advancing your current skill set, scholarships can help lighten the financial load. The opportunities for non-traditional students are vast and growing, making now the perfect time to start applying. So don’t let the cost of tuition hold you back—your future is worth the investment!
FAQ
How do I know if I qualify as a non-traditional student?
If you’re over the age of 24, returning to school after a break, attending part-time, balancing education with work or family, or pursuing a new career, you likely qualify as a non-traditional student.
Can non-traditional students get financial aid?
Yes! In addition to scholarships, non-traditional students can apply for federal financial aid, grants, and even employer tuition assistance programs. Be sure to fill out the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal aid.
Are there scholarships for part-time students?
Absolutely. Many scholarships are available to part-time students, especially those who are working professionals, parents, or balancing other responsibilities with their studies.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes! In fact, applying for multiple scholarships is a great way to increase your chances of receiving financial aid. Just be sure to check the eligibility criteria and deadlines for each scholarship.
