Financial Aid for Adults
Adult Education Assistance for the non-traditional
student (in terms of financial aid) works basically the same
as for any other student. Clearly, however there exist certain
nuances and considerations that can not be overlooked. Some
examples might include, studying less than half-time and special
scholarships for the adult learner. For the most part, continuing
education students seem to need reassurance that achieving
their goals is possible.
That notion is shared by all students and isn't
any different when you choose to enter college as an adult
for the first time or whether you are going back to college.
Is it possible? Can I pull it off? Will I be able to keep
up? and, most importantly, Can I afford it? are all questions
you will find yourself asking. I can speak from experience
when I tell you that it is possible and you will do better
than you expect. Truth be told, non-traditional students outperform
their college-aged counterparts, hands down.
So, with that out of the way, what do you really
have to worry about? Well, you wouldn't be here if financing
your education was not a concern. Sure, you may be financially
more capable of meeting educational costs now that you are
established... you are established and earning a decent income
aren't you? No? Well, that's okay too! A wise person once
said, "when in Rome, do as the Romans."
What that means to you is that you need to apply
for financial aid the same as everyone else. If you qualify,
you can take advantage of the same opportunities presented
your younger counterparts. The first step is filing the Free
Application for Federal Student Aid. Aside from the basic
programs offered by the federal government, you may be surprised
to learn that there exist other programs to help you meet
your college costs. Private (or independent) colleges often
offer institutional grants or scholarships, some states also
offer grants.
Check with your local department of labor to
learn about vocational educational grants and opportunities.
Also, don't forget to avail yourself of the many free scholarship
search services on the internet. Finally, take a realistic
look at what you wish to achieve, how much it will cost and
how much you can afford to pay out of pocket. Once you have
that basic snapshot of your goals and finances, take the time
to sit down at your kitchen table and plan a budget -- whether
it's for yourself or your entire family. Look for areas where
you can make sacrifices. Do you need HBO? Do you need to have
all your shirts laundered? What about call waiting? What about
cutting back on utiitities? There are tons of areas in your
personal finances that you can optimize in order to save a
little extra cash for college. It can be done.
One last note, read. I mean it. Read everything
the college's financial aid office sends you. Be sure to complete
applications as accurately as possible (call and ask questions
if you need to) and be aware of filing deadlines. Deadlines
are important because filing on time means that the financial
aid office will be able to give you maximum consideration
for all of its funding sources. Miss a deadline by a week
and it could literally cost you thousands. Below are sites
that further discuss adult education issues including financial
aid.
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