As a non-traditional student—whether you’re a working adult returning to school, a parent juggling responsibilities, or someone changing careers—finding funding for your education can be a daunting task. While there are many scholarships available through mainstream platforms, these opportunities may not always cater to the unique needs of non-traditional learners. Fortunately, there are many scholarships specifically designed for non-traditional students, and many of these awards are found outside the usual scholarship databases.
1. What Are Non-Traditional Students?
Non-traditional students are individuals who do not follow the typical path of attending college immediately after high school. This group includes adult learners, veterans, students with dependents, and those returning to school after a significant break. These students may be pursuing education to change careers, advance in their current professions, or improve their quality of life through additional qualifications. Non-traditional students often face unique challenges, such as balancing work, family, and education, and they may also need additional financial support to help ease their educational journey.
2. Challenges Faced by Non-Traditional Students
Non-traditional students often face challenges that traditional students may not experience. Some of these include:
- Financial pressures: Many non-traditional students work full-time or part-time jobs while attending school. The cost of tuition, books, and other school-related expenses can add significant financial stress, especially when students have additional responsibilities, such as caring for children or aging parents.
- Time constraints: Balancing academic life with personal and professional responsibilities can make it difficult to find time for studying, attending classes, and completing assignments. This can also limit students’ ability to participate in traditional scholarship opportunities, which often require full-time enrollment or extracurricular involvement.
- Limited access to traditional resources: Non-traditional students may not be as familiar with the common scholarship platforms that cater primarily to high school graduates. Many resources that target traditional students may not highlight scholarships tailored to adult learners or those returning to school after years in the workforce.
Despite these challenges, there are several scholarships for non-traditional students designed to provide financial relief and support the academic ambitions of adult learners.
3. Where to Find Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students
While large scholarship databases such as Fastweb, Cappex, and Scholarship.com may list some non-traditional scholarships, there are many other sources where returning learners can find targeted funding opportunities:
University and College-Specific Scholarships
Many universities and colleges recognize the unique needs of non-traditional students and offer dedicated scholarships to help them finance their education. Some schools have specific funds set aside for adult learners, military veterans, or students who are re-entering academia after a long break. These scholarships may be based on merit, financial need, or a combination of both, and they can significantly reduce the financial burden of tuition.
Check your college or university’s financial aid website to see if they offer scholarships specifically for non-traditional students. It’s also a good idea to contact the school’s adult learner office, if available, for more information about funding opportunities.
Professional Associations and Industry-Specific Scholarships
Many professional organizations offer scholarships specifically for individuals returning to school to advance their careers. These scholarships are often industry-specific and may require students to pursue a degree or certification in a particular field. For example, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers scholarships for women returning to school, while the National Black Nurses Association provides funding for African-American nursing students who are returning to school.
Additionally, if you are pursuing a degree related to a particular profession, it’s worth checking with professional organizations in that field to see if they offer scholarships for non-traditional students. These organizations understand the demands of adult learners and often prioritize helping those who are furthering their education to improve their career prospects.
Employer-Sponsored Scholarships
Many employers offer scholarships or tuition assistance programs to help their employees continue their education. If you are a non-traditional student working full-time or part-time, inquire with your employer about any educational assistance programs that might be available. Some companies offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing degrees or certifications related to their work, while others offer grants or scholarships to employees looking to return to school to advance in their current field.
For example, large companies like Walmart, Starbucks, and McDonald’s have been known to offer financial aid and tuition support for their employees pursuing higher education. Even smaller businesses in your community may offer funding for employees seeking to enhance their skills. Be sure to ask your HR department about any available funding opportunities.
Local Community Organizations
Local community organizations, such as churches, non-profit groups, and local businesses, may offer scholarships for non-traditional students. These organizations are often more in tune with the specific needs of the community and may offer funding opportunities for students who live in the area or are affiliated with the organization. For example, a community group might offer scholarships for parents returning to school or for veterans seeking to continue their education after serving in the military.
You can also check with your local government or public libraries to inquire about regional grants or funding opportunities. Many local foundations provide scholarships to help residents of their area further their education, and these opportunities may be less competitive than those found on larger platforms.
Online Scholarship Databases for Non-Traditional Students
In addition to the widely known scholarship platforms, there are websites and databases specifically designed for non-traditional students. For instance, The Return2College Scholarship is a great resource for adult learners returning to school. Similarly, Adult Learner Scholarships is a website that focuses on scholarships for students who are older than the typical college age. These platforms can help you search for scholarships that are specifically tailored to your circumstances, making your search for financial assistance more efficient.
4. Maximizing Your Chances of Winning Non-Traditional Scholarships
When applying for scholarships for non-traditional students, there are several tips that can help improve your chances of winning:
Tailor Your Application to the Audience
Non-traditional scholarships are often awarded to students who demonstrate a commitment to overcoming personal challenges. When writing your scholarship essay or personal statement, highlight how your life experiences—whether it’s balancing work and family or returning to school after a long break—have shaped your academic journey and your goals.
Keep Track of Deadlines
While mainstream scholarships often have predictable deadlines, non-traditional scholarships may have unique timelines based on the organization or program offering the funding. Make sure to set reminders for scholarship deadlines, so you don’t miss out on any opportunities.
Highlight Your Career Goals
Many non-traditional scholarships are awarded to students who are pursuing degrees that will help them improve their career prospects. Be sure to emphasize how your education will help you achieve your professional goals and contribute to your community or industry.
5. Conclusion
As a non-traditional student, finding funding for your education may feel overwhelming, but there are many scholarship opportunities that can help ease the financial burden. By seeking out scholarships offered by universities, professional associations, local organizations, and even employers, you can unlock funding that specifically addresses the needs of adult learners and students returning to school. With careful research and persistence, you can find scholarships for non-traditional students that provide the financial support needed to reach your educational goals and create a brighter future.