Top Scholarships for Nontraditional Students to Apply for Now

Discover top scholarships for nontraditional students, including adult learners, working parents, career changers, and part-time students. Learn how to find and apply for financial aid tailored to your unique needs and start your educational journey today!

Introduction

As higher education becomes more essential for career advancement, many nontraditional students are seeking ways to finance their studies. Nontraditional students, including adult learners, working parents, career changers, and part-time students, face unique challenges that traditional students may not encounter. However, a wide range of scholarships is available specifically for these students. This comprehensive guide will explore the top scholarships for nontraditional students and provide you with the tools and resources to navigate your way to financial support.

Also see; What Is Rolling Admission: A Complete Guide to College Admissions

Also see; 7 Essential Things to Do After You Winning a Scholarship

Who Are Nontraditional Students?

Nontraditional students are defined by several characteristics that distinguish them from traditional, direct-from-high-school students. Here are some of the common types of nontraditional students:

• Adult learners: Students aged 25 and older who are returning to school after a break in their education or pursuing a degree later in life.
• Working parents: Students who are balancing family responsibilities with their education.
• Career changers: Individuals looking to switch careers and pursue a degree in a new field.
• Part-time students: Those enrolled in fewer than the full-time credit hours due to work or family obligations.
• Students with dependents: Those who are raising children or caring for other family members while attending school.

Each of these student groups faces unique financial hurdles, and there are scholarships for nontraditional students that specifically address their needs.

Types of Scholarships for Nontraditional Students

In this section, we’ll dive into the various types of scholarships for nontraditional students available today.

Scholarships for Adult Learners

Adult learners often return to school after taking a break from their education. These scholarships are designed to help those reentering the academic world.

• The Rebooting Your Career Scholarship by FlexJobs: This scholarship is specifically for adults over 25 who are looking to re-enter the workforce after a break and pursue a career transition.
• The Adult Learner Scholarship from University of Phoenix: This scholarship helps adult learners returning to college full-time or part-time, especially those who have previous academic or professional experience.

Scholarships for Working Parents

For working parents, managing education alongside family life can be overwhelming. Thankfully, several scholarships and financial aid programs are available to ease this burden.

• The Women’s Opportunity Award by Soroptimist International: This award helps women who are the primary wage earners for their families and are pursuing higher education.
• The Elizabeth Johnson Foundation Scholarship: This scholarship supports mothers returning to school to pursue careers in healthcare, education, or business.

Scholarships for Career Changers

Switching careers can be a major financial and emotional decision. Several scholarships are available to help those seeking a new direction.

• The AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship: Designed for women over 50 who are returning to school for a career change. This scholarship provides financial support for those pursuing education in a new field.
• The Industry-Specific Scholarships for Career Switchers: Many fields offer scholarships specifically for career changers, especially in tech and healthcare. For example, Google Career Certificates provide assistance for nontraditional students pursuing tech careers.

Scholarships for Part-time Students

Being a part-time student offers flexibility, but it can also limit access to financial aid. Thankfully, there are scholarships designed specifically for part-time students.

• The Part-time Study Scholarship by the American Association of University Women (AAUW): This scholarship is for women pursuing degrees on a part-time basis due to personal or professional obligations.
• The Dean’s List Scholarship for Part-time Students: Offered by many universities, this scholarship is for students who maintain a high GPA while enrolled part-time.

Scholarships for Students with Dependents

Balancing school with family responsibilities can be challenging. These scholarships provide financial support to students with dependents.

• The Bright Futures Scholarship for Parents: This scholarship provides funding for students who are also parents and pursuing a degree. It helps them manage the financial burden of tuition and textbooks.
• The Nontraditional Parent Scholarship by College Express: Designed for students raising children or other dependents while attending school, this scholarship helps them complete their education.

How to Find Scholarships for Nontraditional Students

Once you understand what types of scholarships are available, the next step is finding them. Here’s how to navigate the search for scholarships for nontraditional students.

Scholarship Search Engines and Databases

There are several online platforms designed to help you search for scholarships, grants, and other financial aid specifically for nontraditional students:

• Fastweb: A comprehensive database for scholarships, grants, and internships. It allows you to filter searches based on your student profile (e.g., age, family status, major).
• Scholarships.com: Another large database that provides a variety of scholarships based on specific criteria, including nontraditional student status.
• Cappex: This tool helps students create a profile and matches them with scholarships tailored to their needs.

Resources for Adult Learners

Several resources are available for adult learners looking for financial aid opportunities:

• Adult Learner Resource Center: Many universities have dedicated centers to help adult learners find scholarships and financial aid. Check with your school for specific programs.
• National Association for Adult and Continuing Education (NAACE): NAACE provides resources and scholarships for adult learners returning to school after a break.

Other Financial Aid Options for Nontraditional Students

Scholarships are not the only form of financial aid available to nontraditional students. Here’s a quick overview of additional options:

• Federal Student Loans: These loans are available to most students, including adult learners, working parents, and part-time students. They offer low-interest rates and deferment options.
• Grants: Need-based grants, such as the Pell Grant, can provide nonrepayable funding for eligible students.
• Work-Study Programs: Many schools offer work-study programs that allow students to earn money while attending school.

Tips for Successfully Applying for Scholarships

Applying for scholarships can be time-consuming, but there are ways to increase your chances of success. Here are some essential tips:

1. Start Early: Scholarship deadlines can vary. Begin your search as early as possible to ensure you don’t miss any opportunities.
2. Tailor Your Application: Personalize your essay and application to highlight your unique background as a nontraditional student.
3. Keep Track of Deadlines: Use a calendar or spreadsheet to track scholarship deadlines and submission requirements.
4. Gather Strong References: Recommendations from employers or mentors can strengthen your application.
5. Follow Instructions: Make sure you submit all the required materials, including transcripts, essays, and recommendation letters.

Conclusion

Nontraditional students have access to a variety of scholarships designed to ease the financial burden of higher education. Whether you’re an adult learner, a working parent, or a career changer, there are scholarships tailored to your unique needs. By understanding what scholarships are available, how to find them, and the best practices for applying, you can take the next step in your educational journey with the financial support you need.

FAQs

1. Can part-time students apply for scholarships?
Yes, there are numerous scholarships available specifically for part-time students, including those balancing work, family, or other obligations.

2. Are there scholarships for working parents?
Yes, many scholarships specifically target working parents who are pursuing a degree. These scholarships aim to alleviate the financial challenges of balancing education with family responsibilities.

3. What other financial aid options are available for nontraditional students?
In addition to scholarships, nontraditional students can apply for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs.