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Adult Learners

Although you may be hesitant about entering college as an adult, it's never too late. You might be thinking you're not young enough. Maybe you're not sure what to study, or you might just be overwhelmed and unsure where to begin. Many other students have felt the same, only to find success once they began.

While it may seem like everyone on campus is in their late teens or early twenties, right out of high school and just starting in life, the majority of students are "nontraditional" in some way. In fact, some studies indicate that students 18 to 22 years old living on campus full time make up less than 20% of all U.S. college students. The rest are adult learners.

Creating a Timeline

As an adult learner, you might have a different timeline than the traditional college student. For example, you may earn a bachelor's degree in less than four years if you're taking advantage of flexible schedules or accelerated courses. Or, it might take you longer than four years if you attend part time or need to take time off for work or family needs.

When you plan your college career, consider:

  • If you'll attend classes full time or part time.
  • What type of degree you want to earn.
  • Whether you have any transferable credits.

    • You may be able to use credits earned previously.
    • The college might grant you credit for work experience.
    • Based on your experience, you may be able to opt out of some general education requirements.

If you're not sure, don't worry. Colleges have people on hand to help you plan for your college education.

Set up meetings with:

  • An admission officer to discuss:
    • Admission requirements.
    • Deadlines for applications and other required paperwork.
    • Any credits you've already earned. (Bring your old transcripts and resumes.)
    • Special seminars, workshops or welcome days for nontraditional students.
    • Other programs, like married student housing or daycare, you're interested in.
  • An advisor from the program you're interested in to talk about:
    • Requirements for entering the program and for graduation.
    • How your class schedule will fit in with your other commitments.
  • A financial aid officer to discuss your options for financial assistance.

Once you've decide to attend college, you'll have some additional choices to make. Think about what you want to study, where you'd like to go to college, your timeline and how it all fits together with your current life.

Selecting a Program

While moving away to a new location may seem appealing, most adults find it more realistic to study a little closer to home. You may need to consider the needs of your family or your current job when deciding where to study. Besides the traditional campus, consider:

  • Special programs for adults.
    • Advanced or accelerated classes let you earn your degree in less time or non-daytime hours.
    • Cohort programs are designed for specialized and hands-on learning.
  • Community college.
    • You can usually find a community college within driving distance, and many offer flexible schedules for adult learners.
  • Satellite classes.
    • Many colleges offer classes in satellite locations that are easily accessible.
  • Online, televised or hybrid courses.
    • You may be able to earn all or part of your degree from home or a local facility by taking classes over the Internet or via television.

An online search can help you choose a program. Some websites match the type of program you're looking for with schools that offer a suitable program.

Choosing a Major

Deciding on a college major sets the path for your new career or life focus. If you aren't sure what to study:

  • Research the majors offered at some of the colleges you're considering.
    • Cross off anything that you know you don't want to study.
    • Consider what's left: Do you see a theme developing?

Pursuing a Degree

A college education doesn't necessarily end with a four-year bachelor's degree. You can choose the option that most suits what you want to accomplish and how long you want to attend college.

  • Certificates, diplomas and associate degrees:
    • Are offered in nine-month, one-year and two-year programs.
    • Focus on specific careers and offer hands-on training.
    • May allow credit transfer if you decide to continue your education.
  • Bachelor's degrees:
    • Are four-year degrees.
    • Include general education and specific major classes.
  • Master's or doctorate degrees:
    • Involve study beyond bachelor's degree requirements.
    • Can range from two to eight years after bachelor's degree attainment.
    • May be required for certain professions.

College is an investment in your future, whether you use your degree to obtain a higher-paying job or to fulfill a lifelong desire. If you don't have the savings to pay for your entire education, many options are available.

Scholarships and grants

Colleges, private companies and government agencies offer aid in the form of scholarships and grants, and some may be open to only returning or adult students. Scholarships and grants are a great resource because the funds do not need to repaid. Find scholarships.

Employer tuition reimbursement

Your current employer might have a program to pay for part or all of your education expenses. Meet with your human resources office to discuss requirements and benefits.

Grad PLUS loans

Loans should be used only when there's no other way to pay for your expenses. All loans must be repaid with interest. Generally, federal loans like the Grad PLUS offer lower interest rates and better terms than private loans. Grad PLUS loans are available only to graduate or professional students.

Qualifying for Aid

To qualify for federal or state aid, you must fill out and file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is a free form that may be completed without professional assistance via paper or electronic forms provided by the U.S. Department of Education. Colleges also use your FAFSA information to determine your eligibility for school scholarships and aid.

You don't need professional assistance to fill out or file the FAFSA, but the form can be confusing. If you need help, contact ICAN for assistance without charge.

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