Every year, I work with adults who are ready to return to school, some for the first time since high school and others after a long break. Whether you’re a working parent, a veteran, a career changer, or someone who simply never had the chance to attend college earlier, applying to college as an adult or non-traditional student can feel overwhelming. But I want you to know: you’re not alone, and it’s never too late.
In fact, adult and non-traditional students now make up over 40% of the college population in the U.S., according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Colleges are adapting. You bring valuable life experience, motivation, and perspective that many schools value deeply. But your path to college may not look like the traditional 17-year-old’s, and that’s okay.
Let’s walk through exactly how to apply to college as a non-traditional student—with practical steps, emotional insight, and the understanding that your journey is uniquely yours.
How to Apply to College as an Adult or Non-Traditional Student
Applying to college as an adult student involves many of the same steps as traditional students, but with extra considerations around life experience, time management, finances, and sometimes gaps in education. Let’s start with the basics and then dig deeper.
Step 1: Choose the Right Schools for Your Needs
I often tell adult students: your first decision isn’t where you can get in—it’s where you’ll thrive. Think about programs that align with your career goals, offer flexibility, and provide support for adult learners.
- Community Colleges: Great for affordability, flexible scheduling, and building foundational skills.
- Online and Hybrid Programs: Ideal for working adults or parents who need to study on their own schedule.
- Colleges with Adult Learner Support: Look for schools with dedicated staff for non-traditional students, evening classes, or prior-learning credit options.
For example, I worked with Vanessa, a 34-year-old single mom who wanted to become a nurse. We explored local community colleges with strong nursing transfer pathways and found one with evening clinical rotations and a support center for parenting students. She’s now in her second year and thriving.
When making your college list, it helps to use a strategic framework. You can learn how in our guide on choosing reach, match, and safety schools.
Step 2: Gather Transcripts and Test Scores (Even if They’re Old)
Most colleges require transcripts from any high school or college you’ve attended. If it’s been years—or decades—since you were in school, don’t panic. Schools are used to this.
- Contact your high school or district office to request transcripts. Many offer digital copies now.
- If you’ve attended any college, even briefly, request those transcripts too.
- Some schools may waive standardized tests like the SAT/ACT for adult applicants, but others might require them.
To know where you stand, check each college’s standardized test policy for 2025. Some schools are test-optional or test-blind, especially for students over 25.
Step 3: Write a Compelling Personal Statement
This is your chance to share your journey—and it matters more than you might think. Colleges want to understand your motivation for returning to school, the experiences that shaped you, and how you’re prepared to succeed now.
I helped a student named Raul, a 42-year-old veteran, craft a personal statement about his transition from the military to civilian life. He focused on how leadership, discipline, and resilience shaped his desire to earn a degree in social work. His essay stood out not because it was perfect, but because it was deeply real.
Use your essay to show growth, reflection, and clarity. Our guide on writing a powerful personal statement breaks it down step by step.
Step 4: Build a Resume of Life Experience
Non-traditional students often bring work experience, volunteer service, parenting, military service, or caregiving to the table. These experiences count—and many colleges will let you submit a resume as part of your application.
Use a format that highlights both formal and informal skills. Our college application resume guide is a great place to start.
Some colleges also offer credit for prior learning or work experience. Check for programs like CLEP exams or portfolio assessments. You can learn more through resources such as the American Council on Education’s Credit for Prior Learning initiative.
Step 5: Plan Financially
Financing college as an adult can feel daunting, but you may qualify for more aid than you think. Start by filing the FAFSA—even if you think you earn too much. Many grants, scholarships, and even some loans require it.
There are also scholarships specifically for adult learners, such as the Scholarships.com adult learner list or the Unigo adult student database.
You can also explore our own roundup of military scholarships and graduate school scholarships if relevant to your goals.
Finally, don’t forget about work-study programs, employer tuition assistance, or payment plans offered directly by colleges.
Overcoming Common Challenges as a Non-Traditional Applicant
Beyond logistics, applying as an adult often stirs up emotional barriers. Here’s how I help students tackle them in real life.
“I’m too old to go back to school.”
I hear this often—and I always respond the same way: your future self will thank you. I’ve worked with students in their 30s, 40s, even 60s who graduate with pride and purpose. One student, Linda, started college at 58 after raising four kids. She told me, “This is for me.”
“I have a messy academic past.”
GPA gaps, withdrawals, or poor grades from years ago don’t define you. What matters now is showing growth. Use your personal statement and application to explain your journey and demonstrate readiness. Colleges understand that life happens.
“I don’t know how I’ll balance school with everything else.”
This one’s real. Most adult students juggle jobs, kids, caregiving, or all three. That’s why choosing the right program matters. Look for schools with robust support for balancing school and life. Time management, community support, and flexible scheduling make a difference.
“I’m scared I won’t belong.”
It’s normal to feel out of place—but you’re not alone. Many colleges now have student groups, orientation programs, and mentorship opportunities just for adult learners. I recommend reaching out to admissions or student life offices to ask about non-traditional student support.
FAQ: Applying to College as an Adult
Do I need to take the SAT or ACT?
Not always. Many schools waive test scores for students over 25 or offer test-optional policies. Check each college’s official admissions page or our guide on test policies to confirm.
What if I never finished high school?
You can still apply to college by earning a GED or equivalent. Some community colleges also offer pathways that don’t require a high school diploma. The GED Testing Service is a good place to start.
How many colleges should I apply to?
It depends on your goals and finances, but 4 to 6 schools is typical. Aim for a mix of reach, match, and safety schools. We walk through this strategy in our article on how many colleges to apply to.
Can I get financial aid as an adult student?
Yes. You may qualify for federal aid, state grants, scholarships, or work-study. Submit the FAFSA as early as possible and explore scholarships for adult learners or career changers.
Final Thoughts: You Belong Here
Returning to college as an adult is brave. It’s not easy—but it is worth it. I’ve helped students navigate fears, finances, and self-doubt to earn degrees that changed their lives. Many told me later, “I wish I’d started sooner.”
If you’re considering going back to school, take that first step. Research schools. Reach out to admissions counselors. Start writing your story. And if you need help crafting your narrative, our guide on building a strong application theme can help you connect the dots of your journey.
Your path may be different—but that’s what makes it powerful.