Returning Student Scholarships: A Comprehensive Guide

Returning to college after a break, whether it’s been a few years or several decades, is a significant decision. It’s a testament to your commitment to personal and professional growth. However, the financial aspect can often be a major hurdle. Tuition costs, living expenses, and family obligations can make funding your education a daunting task. Fortunately, numerous scholarship opportunities are specifically designed for returning students. This comprehensive guide will explore the various types of scholarships available, eligibility criteria, application strategies, and valuable resources to help you navigate the scholarship landscape and secure the funding you need to achieve your educational goals. We understand the unique challenges faced by adult learners, and this guide is tailored to provide practical and actionable advice to maximize your chances of success.

Understanding the Landscape of Scholarships for Returning Students

The world of scholarships can seem complex, but understanding the different types of awards and their sources is the first step to finding relevant opportunities. Scholarships are essentially free money awarded to students based on various criteria, such as academic merit, financial need, specific fields of study, or demographic characteristics. Unlike loans, scholarships do not need to be repaid. Several organizations offer scholarships, including colleges and universities, private foundations, corporations, and government agencies. The key is to research and identify scholarships that align with your individual circumstances and academic pursuits.

Types of Scholarships Available

Scholarships for returning students can be broadly categorized into several types:

Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, such as GPA, standardized test scores (though often less emphasized for returning students), and overall academic performance. While past academic performance is considered, many merit-based scholarships for returning students also consider professional achievements, life experiences, and demonstrated potential for future success.

Need-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on financial need, as determined by information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Factors considered include your income, assets, and family size. Need-based scholarships aim to bridge the gap between the cost of attendance and your ability to pay.

Field-of-Study Scholarships: Many organizations offer scholarships to students pursuing specific fields of study, such as nursing, engineering, education, or business. These scholarships often target industries with a high demand for skilled professionals. If you have a clear career path in mind, exploring field-of-study scholarships is a worthwhile endeavor.

Demographic-Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships are specifically targeted towards certain demographic groups, such as women, minorities, veterans, or students with disabilities. These scholarships aim to promote diversity and inclusion in higher education.

Scholarships for Adult Learners: These scholarships are designed specifically for students who are returning to college after a significant break, often with work experience and family responsibilities. They often recognize the unique challenges and experiences of adult learners.

Institutional Scholarships: These scholarships are offered directly by colleges and universities. They may be based on merit, need, or a combination of both. Contact the financial aid office at your chosen institution to learn more about available institutional scholarships.

Sources of Scholarships for Returning Students

Identifying potential scholarship sources is crucial to your search. Here are some key places to look:

Colleges and Universities: The financial aid offices of colleges and universities are excellent resources for information on institutional scholarships, as well as external scholarship opportunities. Many institutions have dedicated scholarship pages on their websites.

Private Foundations: Numerous private foundations offer scholarships to students pursuing higher education. These foundations often have specific missions and funding priorities. Research foundations that align with your interests and background.

Corporations: Many corporations offer scholarships to students pursuing fields of study relevant to their industry. These scholarships can provide valuable financial support and potential internship or job opportunities.

Professional Organizations: Professional organizations in your field of study may offer scholarships to students pursuing relevant degrees. These scholarships can help you connect with professionals in your field and advance your career.

Government Agencies: Federal and state government agencies offer scholarships and grant programs to students pursuing higher education. These programs often prioritize students from low-income backgrounds or those pursuing fields of study with critical workforce needs.

Online Scholarship Search Engines: Websites like Scholarships.com, Fastweb, and Sallie Mae Scholarship Search offer comprehensive databases of scholarships from various sources. These search engines allow you to filter scholarships based on your individual criteria.

Eligibility Criteria: What Do Scholarship Committees Look For?

Understanding the eligibility criteria for each scholarship is crucial to ensuring that you meet the requirements before applying. While each scholarship has its specific criteria, some common factors are considered by scholarship committees.

Academic Performance

While past academic performance is important, scholarship committees often recognize that returning students may have had different priorities or circumstances earlier in their lives. They may be more interested in your recent academic performance, your commitment to your studies, and your potential for future success. A strong GPA in recent coursework, particularly in relevant subjects, can significantly enhance your application.

Financial Need

Many scholarships are awarded based on financial need. To determine your financial need, scholarship committees will typically review your FAFSA information. It’s essential to complete the FAFSA accurately and on time to be considered for need-based scholarships.

Essay and Personal Statement

The essay or personal statement is often the most important part of your scholarship application. It’s your opportunity to tell your story, showcase your personality, and explain why you deserve the scholarship. Be honest, authentic, and compelling in your writing. Highlight your unique experiences, your motivations for returning to college, and your goals for the future. Clearly articulate how the scholarship will help you achieve your educational and career aspirations.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation can provide valuable insights into your character, work ethic, and academic potential. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and accomplishments. Provide them with sufficient information about the scholarship and your goals to help them write a strong and persuasive letter of recommendation.

Community Involvement and Extracurricular Activities

While returning students may have less time for extracurricular activities due to work and family responsibilities, demonstrating community involvement and a commitment to making a difference can strengthen your application. Highlight any volunteer work, leadership roles, or other activities that showcase your character and values.

Specific Requirements

Carefully review the specific requirements for each scholarship, such as minimum GPA, field of study, residency requirements, or membership in specific organizations. Ensure that you meet all of the requirements before applying.

Crafting a Compelling Scholarship Application: Tips and Strategies

A well-crafted scholarship application can significantly increase your chances of success. Here are some tips and strategies to help you create a compelling application:

Thoroughly Research Each Scholarship

Before you start writing your application, thoroughly research the scholarship’s mission, values, and target audience. Understand what the scholarship committee is looking for and tailor your application accordingly. What are their priorities? What type of student are they trying to support?

Start Early and Plan Ahead

Don’t wait until the last minute to start working on your scholarship applications. Start early and plan ahead to give yourself ample time to research scholarships, gather necessary documents, and write a compelling essay. Create a timeline and set deadlines for each task.

Understand the Essay Prompt

The essay is your opportunity to showcase your personality, skills, and goals. Take the time to understand the essay prompt and develop a clear and concise response. Brainstorm ideas, create an outline, and write multiple drafts.

Tell Your Story Authentically

Be honest, authentic, and genuine in your writing. Share your personal experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Let your personality shine through. The scholarship committee wants to get to know you as a person.

Highlight Your Unique Experiences and Skills

What makes you stand out from other applicants? Highlight your unique experiences, skills, and accomplishments. Showcase your strengths and demonstrate your potential for future success. Emphasize the skills and experiences you’ve gained from your time away from academia, such as leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management.

Demonstrate Your Passion and Commitment

Show the scholarship committee that you are passionate about your field of study and committed to achieving your educational goals. Explain why you are pursuing your chosen career path and how the scholarship will help you achieve your aspirations.

Proofread Carefully

Before submitting your application, proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation. Ask a friend, family member, or writing tutor to review your application as well. Even minor errors can detract from your application.

Follow Instructions Carefully

Carefully follow all instructions provided by the scholarship committee. Ensure that you submit all required documents and meet all deadlines. Failure to follow instructions can result in your application being disqualified.

Seek Feedback and Revise

Before submitting your application, seek feedback from trusted mentors, professors, or advisors. Use their feedback to revise and improve your application. A fresh perspective can help you identify areas for improvement.

Specific Scholarship Opportunities for Returning Students

Here are some specific scholarship opportunities that are commonly available to returning students. Remember to verify eligibility requirements and deadlines for each scholarship.

The Osher Reentry Scholarship Program

The Bernard Osher Foundation provides scholarships to students aged 25 to 50 who are returning to college after a break of five years or more. The program is available at select colleges and universities across the United States. It focuses on supporting students who are pursuing their first bachelor’s degree.

The AAUW Career Development Grants

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers Career Development Grants to women who are pursuing education or training to advance their careers. These grants are available to women who are pursuing associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees, as well as professional certifications. Special consideration is given to women of color and women pursuing degrees in STEM fields.

The Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation

The Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation provides scholarships to low-income women with children who are pursuing higher education. The foundation offers both educational support grants and leadership awards.

The Emerge Education Foundation Scholarship

The Emerge Education Foundation Scholarship supports low-income women of color who are pursuing higher education. The scholarship provides financial assistance, as well as mentoring and leadership development opportunities.

The Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund

The Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to low-income women who are pursuing technical or vocational training, or an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. The fund prioritizes women who are 35 years of age or older.

The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarship Program

The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) offers scholarships to women who are pursuing engineering degrees. These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students. SWE also offers scholarships specifically for returning students.

The National Scholarship Program for Non-Traditional Students

This scholarship program targets students who have taken a break from their education and are now returning to pursue a degree. The specific criteria and award amounts vary, so it’s important to research the current offerings.

Local Community Scholarships

Don’t overlook local scholarship opportunities. Community foundations, local businesses, and civic organizations often offer scholarships to students in their area. These scholarships may have less competition than national scholarships.

Scholarships Based on Military Affiliation

If you or a family member has served in the military, explore scholarship opportunities for veterans and their dependents. Organizations like the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the American Legion offer scholarships to veterans and their families.

Leveraging Your Experience as a Returning Student

Returning students often possess unique strengths and experiences that can make them stand out from traditional students. Leverage these assets in your scholarship applications to showcase your potential and increase your chances of success.

Highlight Your Work Experience

Your work experience can demonstrate valuable skills and qualities, such as leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. Highlight these skills in your essay and explain how they will contribute to your success in college and your future career.

Emphasize Your Life Experiences

Your life experiences can provide valuable insights and perspectives. Share how your experiences have shaped your goals, values, and aspirations. Demonstrate your maturity, resilience, and determination.

Showcase Your Motivation and Commitment

Returning to college after a break demonstrates a strong commitment to personal and professional growth. Emphasize your motivation for pursuing higher education and your dedication to achieving your goals. Explain why you are choosing to return to school now and what you hope to accomplish.

Connect Your Past Experiences to Your Future Goals

Clearly articulate how your past experiences have prepared you for your future career. Explain how your education will help you achieve your aspirations and contribute to your chosen field.

Demonstrate Your Understanding of the Challenges and Opportunities

Show that you understand the challenges and opportunities that come with being a returning student. Acknowledge the potential difficulties of balancing work, family, and academics, but also emphasize your ability to overcome these challenges. Highlight the advantages of your experience, such as your maturity, focus, and real-world perspective.

Navigating the FAFSA and Financial Aid Process

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the foundation of the financial aid process. Completing the FAFSA is essential for determining your eligibility for federal student aid, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. Many scholarships also require you to complete the FAFSA.

Completing the FAFSA

The FAFSA can be completed online at fafsa.gov. You will need to provide information about your income, assets, and family size. The FAFSA uses a formula to determine your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which is an estimate of how much your family can afford to pay for college. It is now called the Student Aid Index (SAI) but serves a similar purpose.

Understanding Your Student Aid Report (SAR)

After you complete the FAFSA, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR), which summarizes the information you provided on the FAFSA and your EFC. Review your SAR carefully to ensure that all of the information is accurate. If you find any errors, correct them immediately.

Exploring Federal Student Aid Options

The federal government offers several types of student aid, including:

Pell Grants: Pell Grants are need-based grants that are awarded to undergraduate students. They do not need to be repaid.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG): FSEOG grants are awarded to undergraduate students with exceptional financial need. They are administered by colleges and universities.

Federal Work-Study: The Federal Work-Study program provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need. These jobs can help you earn money to pay for college expenses.

Federal Student Loans: Federal student loans are available to both undergraduate and graduate students. They offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private student loans.

Contacting the Financial Aid Office

The financial aid office at your chosen institution is an invaluable resource. Contact them with any questions you have about the FAFSA, student aid, or scholarship opportunities. They can provide personalized guidance and support.

Building a Support System for Success

Returning to college can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Building a strong support system can help you stay motivated, overcome obstacles, and achieve your goals.

Connect with Other Returning Students

Connect with other returning students at your college or university. Share your experiences, challenges, and successes. Support each other and learn from each other.

Seek Support from Family and Friends

Communicate with your family and friends about your educational goals and needs. Let them know how they can support you. Enlist their help with childcare, household chores, or other responsibilities.

Utilize Campus Resources

Take advantage of the resources available on campus, such as tutoring services, writing centers, counseling services, and career services. These resources can help you succeed academically and prepare for your future career.

Join Student Organizations

Join student organizations related to your field of study or interests. This can help you connect with other students, build your network, and develop your leadership skills.

Find a Mentor

Find a mentor who can provide guidance, support, and encouragement. A mentor can be a professor, advisor, or professional in your field of study.

Maintaining Academic Excellence and Motivation

Returning to college requires dedication and discipline. Here are some tips for maintaining academic excellence and staying motivated:

Set Realistic Goals

Set realistic goals for your academic performance and workload. Don’t try to do too much too soon. Start with a manageable course load and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable.

Create a Study Schedule

Create a study schedule and stick to it. Schedule specific times for studying, reading, and completing assignments. Treat your study time as a non-negotiable appointment.

Find a Quiet Study Space

Find a quiet and comfortable place to study where you can focus without distractions. This could be a library, a coffee shop, or a dedicated study space at home.

Take Breaks

Take regular breaks while studying to avoid burnout. Get up and stretch, go for a walk, or do something you enjoy. Short breaks can help you stay focused and productive.

Stay Organized

Stay organized by keeping track of your assignments, deadlines, and notes. Use a planner, calendar, or online organizational tool to manage your workload.

Seek Help When Needed

Don’t hesitate to seek help from professors, tutors, or classmates when you are struggling with a concept or assignment. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Reward Yourself

Reward yourself for achieving your goals. Celebrate your successes and acknowledge your hard work. This can help you stay motivated and positive.

Additional Resources for Returning Students

Here are some additional resources that can help you navigate the challenges and opportunities of returning to college:

The U.S. Department of Education

The U.S. Department of Education provides information on federal student aid programs, as well as resources for students and families.

FinAid.org

FinAid.org is a comprehensive website that provides information on financial aid, scholarships, and student loans.

The College Board

The College Board offers resources for college planning, including scholarship search tools and financial aid information.

Your College or University’s Website

Your college or university’s website contains valuable information about academic programs, financial aid, student services, and campus resources.

Professional Organizations

Professional organizations in your field of study can provide information on scholarships, career opportunities, and professional development resources.

Returning to college is a significant investment in your future. By researching scholarship opportunities, crafting a compelling application, and building a strong support system, you can increase your chances of success and achieve your educational goals. Remember to stay persistent, stay positive, and never give up on your dreams.