Adults are generally very motivated and view the college experience as a wonderful learning opportunity as well as a chance to fulfill their goals. Whether it be personal enrichment or professional advancement, they usually want to get the most from their investment. Instructors also enjoy and welcome the adult student’s input and experience in classroom interactions. Not only do adult students “keep up”, they are excelling in their studies.

Some adult accelerated programs require that students be at least 23 years old with 2-5 years of work experience for admission, so in some cases you wouldn’t be in class with recent high school graduates at all.

Yes, you should! Never assume you don’t qualify for financial aid. Many adult students believe they don’t qualify and miss out on many sources of aid, including grants and low interest loans that are offered regardless of grade point average, financial need or credit history. Most federal and state aid programs don’t have age limits, although some scholarship programs might. For financial aid based on low income, all that is necessary is to demonstrate financial need, and some of the most eligible students are single parents. Also, it isn’t necessary to be admitted to a college or university before you can apply for financial aid. Submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form as soon as possible after October 1 and no later than April 15 (Indiana’s deadline. This varies from state to state). Don’t wait until you complete your tax return, but use estimates of income. Any errors can be corrected later.