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The Scholarships360 Research Team reviews all scholarships individually and strives to exclude any scholarship where any of the below applies:

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***Idea harvesting scholarships will require students to submit blog posts or other materials that companies may use for marketing purposes.

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Top 28 Scholarships for Nontraditional Students in October 2023

Written by Will Geiger

Will Geiger is the co-founder of Scholarships360 and has a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. He is a former Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at Kenyon College where he personally reviewed 10,000 admissions applications and essays. Will also managed the Kenyon College merit scholarship program and served on the financial aid appeals committee. He has also worked as an Associate Director of College Counseling at a high school in New Haven, Connecticut. Will earned his master’s in education from the University of Pennsylvania and received his undergraduate degree in history from Wake Forest University.

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Updated: September 23rd, 2023

According to research from the Center for Postsecondary and Economic Success, 40% of the current undergraduate students at US colleges and universities are nontraditional. These students do not fit into the 18 to 24 year old demographic of people who go to college directly after high school. Luckily, there are a number of scholarships for nontraditional students available!

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28 Scholarships
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Making the Leap Scholarship for Transfer Students
Making the Leap Scholarship for Transfer Students

Offered by Scholarships360

1 award worth $500
Deadline Jan 31, 2024

The “Making the Leap” Scholarship is open to undergraduate students who are transferring to another educational institution in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree. We know…

The “Making the Leap” Scholarship is open to undergraduate students who are transferring to another educational institution in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree. We know…

The “Making the Leap” Scholarship is open to undergraduate students who are transferring to another educational institution in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree. We know that getting from point A to point B isn’t always straightforward, and that sometimes there are twists, turns, and unexpected detours along the way. If you’re a transfer student making the leap to another school, you probably know what we’re talking about. Switching educational institutions can be challenging, which is why we’re offering a $500 scholarship to help one outstanding transfer student. See the “Application Information” section below for details regarding the short answer response. We look forward to reading your application!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Next steps

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College JumpStart Scholarship
College JumpStart Scholarship

Offered by College JumpStart

Multiple awards worth up to $1,000
Deadline Oct 17, 2023

Are you a high-achieving student academically? You might consider applying for the College JumpStart Scholarship! The College JumpStart Scholarship is open to students in grades…

Are you a high-achieving student academically? You might consider applying for the College JumpStart Scholarship! The College JumpStart Scholarship is open to students in grades…

Are you a high-achieving student academically? You might consider applying for the College JumpStart Scholarship! The College JumpStart Scholarship is open to students in grades 10 to 12, as well as traditional college-age and adult learners. The scholarship is biannual, with deadlines on April 15th and October 17th each year. Two lucky students are awarded the College JumpStart Scholarship each application cycle. The scholarship is funded by corporate donations to the College JumpStart, an organization whose motto is “Hard work. Perseverance. Love of learning. These are the traits that the College JumpStart Scholarship rewards.” This scholarship is awarded on the basis of merit only–no financial need or any other factors are considered. If you’re passionate about using education to better your life and that of your family and/or community, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: HS Sophmores, Juniors, Seniors & College Students

Next steps

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$10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship
$10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship

Offered by Scholarships360

1 award worth $10,000
Deadline Jun 30, 2024

The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high…

The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high…

The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high school student who hopes to go to college, a graduate student who’s in a master’s program, or an adult learner who wants to return to school, you are eligible for our no essay scholarship. This scholarship will be awarded to students who get the most out of Scholarships360 scholarships and content. You will be a strong applicant if you apply to scholarships with the Scholarships360 platform. Finalists for this scholarship will be interviewed about their process for funding their education.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: All Grade Levels

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement

Next steps

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$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship
$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship

Offered by Sallie Mae

1 award worth $2,000
Deadline Sep 30, 2023

Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for…

Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for…

Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for school.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: HS Upperclassmen, College & Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents, DACA

Next steps

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$40,000 BigFuture Scholarships
$40,000 BigFuture Scholarships

Offered by The College Board

Multiple awards worth up to $40,000
Deadline Sep 30, 2023

Open to US-Based high school students in the classes of 2024 and 2025 — no essay, minimum GPA, test score, or citizenship requirements.

Open to US-Based high school students in the classes of 2024 and 2025 — no essay, minimum GPA, test score, or citizenship requirements.

Open to US-Based high school students in the classes of 2024 and 2025 — no essay, minimum GPA, test score, or citizenship requirements.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Juniors & Seniors

Citizenship: US Citizens, Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents, DACA

Next steps

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$25k “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship
$25k “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship

Offered by Bold.org

1 award worth $25,000
Deadline Oct 1, 2023

Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.

Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.

Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: All Grade Levels

Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement

Next steps

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Get Educated Online College Scholarship Program
Get Educated Online College Scholarship Program

Offered by GetEducated.com

Multiple awards worth $1,000
Deadline Oct 15, 2023

Are you a student attending an online university? If so, you might be interested in applying for the Get Educated Online College Scholarship Program! The…

Are you a student attending an online university? If so, you might be interested in applying for the Get Educated Online College Scholarship Program! The…

Are you a student attending an online university? If so, you might be interested in applying for the Get Educated Online College Scholarship Program! The scholarship is open to U.S. citizens enrolled in accredited online degree programs in the USA. The program is offered through GetEducated.com, an online free counseling center. Through this program, they aim to provide support to students in distance learning and other online degree programs. Thus, twice a year, their Get Educated Online College Scholarship awards  $1,000 awards to help online students pay for their tuition costs. The deadlines for the scholarship are March 15th and October 15th of every year. If you are an online student looking for a scholarship opportunity, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College & Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens

Minimum GPA: 3.0

Next steps

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Vickie Drum Memorial Scholarship
Vickie Drum Memorial Scholarship

Offered by Bold.org

1 award worth $1,500
Deadline Dec 1, 2023

The Vickie Drum Memorial Scholarship was established in honor of a remarkable woman who overcame the challenges of being a mother while pursuing her college…

The Vickie Drum Memorial Scholarship was established in honor of a remarkable woman who overcame the challenges of being a mother while pursuing her college…

The Vickie Drum Memorial Scholarship was established in honor of a remarkable woman who overcame the challenges of being a mother while pursuing her college education, and who serves as an inspiration to many. Her story resonates with countless young mothers who aspire to improve their lives through higher education. However, the financial burden of attending college can be overwhelming for these individuals. In honor of Vickie Drum's legacy, this scholarship aims to support female students in North Carolina who are raising a child while pursuing an undergraduate degree. Eligible applicants must meet this criterion and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. To apply, share your unique journey through higher education as a parent and how it has shaped your path. This scholarship is an opportunity to not only honor Vickie Drum's memory but also empower mothers to achieve their educational goals and create a brighter future for themselves and their families.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Minimum GPA: 3.0

Other Category: Adult, Women, Parent

State: North Carolina

Next steps

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Tennessee HOPE Scholarship for Nontraditional Students
Tennessee HOPE Scholarship for Nontraditional Students

Offered by Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation

Multiple awards worth up to $2,850
Deadline Feb 1, 2024

The Tennessee HOPE Scholarship for Nontraditional Students is an incredible opportunity for Tennessee residents who are nontraditional post-secondary students. Applicants must be independent students enrolled…

The Tennessee HOPE Scholarship for Nontraditional Students is an incredible opportunity for Tennessee residents who are nontraditional post-secondary students. Applicants must be independent students enrolled…

The Tennessee HOPE Scholarship for Nontraditional Students is an incredible opportunity for Tennessee residents who are nontraditional post-secondary students. Applicants must be independent students enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program at an eligible Tennessee four-year postsecondary institution. To apply, students must submit the FAFSA by September 1 for the Fall semester, and by February 1st for the Spring and Summer semesters. If the scholarship is awarded to a student, the recipient must maintain continuous enrollment, a low adjusted gross income, and satisfactory academic progress to renew it. This is a perfect opportunity for those who are looking to further their education and achieve their dreams. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Citizenship: US Citizens

Minimum GPA: 2.8

Other Category: Low Income, Adult

State: Tennessee

Next steps

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Non-Traditional Student Scholarship
Non-Traditional Student Scholarship

Offered by American Legion Auxiliary

Multiple awards worth $2,000
Deadline Mar 1, 2024

Are you a member of the American Legion, Auxiliary, or Sons of The American Legion who is currently pursuing a postsecondary degree? If so, consider…

Are you a member of the American Legion, Auxiliary, or Sons of The American Legion who is currently pursuing a postsecondary degree? If so, consider…

Are you a member of the American Legion, Auxiliary, or Sons of The American Legion who is currently pursuing a postsecondary degree? If so, consider applying for the Non-Traditional Student Scholarship! The scholarship is open to members of the American Legion, Auxiliary, or Sons of The American Legion who are enrolled in two- or four-year degree programs. The scholarship is offered by the American Legion Auxiliary, an organization dedicated to helping its members continue their education after serving in the U.S. military. The American Legion Auxiliary honors and advocates for veterans and their families, promotes patriotism, and educates the youth. Every year, they award multiple $2,000 scholarships to help recipients pay for their degrees at their institutions of choice. If you are a member of the American Legion, Auxiliary, or Sons of The American Legion who is completing your education, we encourage you to apply!  

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College & Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Other Category: Veteran

Next steps

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Career Women’s Network Scholarship Fund
Career Women’s Network Scholarship Fund

Offered by Community Foundation of Central Georgia

Multiple awards worth Varies
Deadline Mar 15, 2024

The Career Women’s Network Scholarship Fund is open to non-traditional, female students over the age of 25 who are enrolled in their first-ever undergraduate program.…

The Career Women’s Network Scholarship Fund is open to non-traditional, female students over the age of 25 who are enrolled in their first-ever undergraduate program.…

The Career Women’s Network Scholarship Fund is open to non-traditional, female students over the age of 25 who are enrolled in their first-ever undergraduate program. While any students meeting these criteria are eligible, bear in mind that preference will be given to students who currently reside in and attend post-secondary schools in the Central Georgia region. Interested students must also demonstrate financial need and submit an essay describing their educational plans and commitment to community service. If you're a non-traditional, female undergraduate student, preferably in the state of Georgia, we encourage you to apply! Keep on reading to learn more.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Minimum GPA: 2.5

Other Category: Women

State: Georgia

Next steps

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Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship
Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship

Offered by Bold.org

2 awards worth $1,000
Deadline Jul 31, 2024

Introducing the Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to a cherished father and the middle child among eleven siblings, whose circumstances compelled him to…

Introducing the Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to a cherished father and the middle child among eleven siblings, whose circumstances compelled him to…

Introducing the Charles Pulling Sr. Memorial Scholarship, a tribute to a cherished father and the middle child among eleven siblings, whose circumstances compelled him to enter the workforce prematurely and leave his high school dreams behind. However, recognizing the limited job prospects available to him, he understood that obtaining his high school diploma was the key to unlocking a better life for his loved ones, and headed back to the classroom. This prestigious scholarship aims to honor the memory of Charles Pulling Sr. by empowering those who also wish to enhance their families' lives through education. Whether you are a high school or GED student, an undergraduate pursuing a non-traditional path, a first-generation student, a single parent, someone who took a break from education before returning, or over the age of 25, you are invited to apply. To apply, reveal what sets you apart as a non-traditional student and what fuels your relentless pursuit of greatness.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School & College Students

Other Category: Adult, First-Generation Student, Single Parent, Parent

Next steps

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Helping Hands for Single Moms – Phoenix Scholarship
Helping Hands for Single Moms – Phoenix Scholarship

Offered by Helping Hands for Single Moms

Multiple awards worth Varies
Deadline Rolling

Are you the single mom of a young child (or children) in Phoenix who is attending college or university? If so, consider applying for the…

Are you the single mom of a young child (or children) in Phoenix who is attending college or university? If so, consider applying for the…

Are you the single mom of a young child (or children) in Phoenix who is attending college or university? If so, consider applying for the Helping Hands for Single Moms - Phoenix Scholarship! The scholarship is open to legally single/divorced moms residing in the Phoenix area who are attending college and able to participate in Single Mom College Community meetings. Eligible applicants must also have at least one child under the age of 11. The scholarship is offered by Helping Hands for Single Moms, a nonprofit organization started in 2002. Their mission is to assist low-income single moms in attaining a post-secondary education. Helping Hands regularly grants awards of varying amounts to help single moms gain financial independence, pursue their postsecondary educations, and provide a positive family legacy for their dependents. If you are a single mom in the Phoenix area who is looking for funds for your education, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College & Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Minimum GPA: 2.8

Academic Interest: Nursing

Other Category: Low Income, Women, Single Parent, Parent

State: Arizona

Next steps

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Helping Hands for Single Moms – Dallas Scholarship
Helping Hands for Single Moms – Dallas Scholarship

Offered by Helping Hands for Single Moms

Multiple awards worth Varies
Deadline Rolling

Are you the single mom of a young child (or children) in the DFW (Dallas Fort Worth) area who is attending college or university? If…

Are you the single mom of a young child (or children) in the DFW (Dallas Fort Worth) area who is attending college or university? If…

Are you the single mom of a young child (or children) in the DFW (Dallas Fort Worth) area who is attending college or university? If so, consider applying for the Helping Hands for Single Moms – Dallas Scholarship! The scholarship is open to legally single/divorced moms residing in the DFW area who are attending college and able to participate in Single Mom College Community meetings. Eligible applicants must also have at least one child under the age of 11. The scholarship is offered by Helping Hands for Single Moms, a nonprofit organization started in 2002. Their mission is to assist low-income single moms in attaining a post-secondary education. Helping Hands regularly grants awards of varying amounts to help single moms gain financial independence, pursue their postsecondary educations, and provide a positive family legacy for their dependents. If you are a single mom in the DFW area who is looking for funds for your education, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College & Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Minimum GPA: 2.8

Academic Interest: Nursing

Other Category: Low Income, Women, Single Parent, Parent

State: Texas

Next steps

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Entertainment Community Fund Professional Development Scholarship
Entertainment Community Fund Professional Development Scholarship

Offered by Entertainment Community Fund

Multiple awards worth up to $1,000
Deadline Rolling

The Entertainment Community Fund Professional Development Scholarship is funded by the Entertainment Community Fund, an organization that fosters stability and resiliency, and provides a safety…

The Entertainment Community Fund Professional Development Scholarship is funded by the Entertainment Community Fund, an organization that fosters stability and resiliency, and provides a safety…

The Entertainment Community Fund Professional Development Scholarship is funded by the Entertainment Community Fund, an organization that fosters stability and resiliency, and provides a safety net for performing arts and entertainment professionals over their lifespan. Every year, their Professional Development Scholarship awards up to $1,000 to multiple professional dancers of 5+ years who are seeking occupational skills training in a certification or licensure program outside of dance. If this scholarship sounds like a fit for you, keep on reading for more application details.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College & Graduate Students

Academic Interest: Visual & Performing Arts, Dance

Other Category: Adult, Athletic

Next steps

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P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education
P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education

Offered by Philanthropic Educational Organization

Multiple awards worth up to $3,000
Deadline 30 days after receiving a chapter recommendation

Are you a woman enrolled in a certification or degree program? If so, consider applying for the P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education! The grant is…

Are you a woman enrolled in a certification or degree program? If so, consider applying for the P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education! The grant is…

Are you a woman enrolled in a certification or degree program? If so, consider applying for the P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education! The grant is open to women within 18 consecutive months of completing their educational program who have had at least 24 consecutive months as a non-student sometime in their adult life. The scholarship is funded by the Philanthropic Educational Organization, an organization that has aimed to support women with their educational aspirations since 1869. Today, P.E.O. provides over $398 million in grants, scholarships, awards, and loans. On a rolling basis, the organization grants $3,000 to recipients of the P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education to cover tuition and expenses. If you would like some funds to pay off your postsecondary program, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College & Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents

Academic Interest: Education

Other Category: Adult, Nontraditional, Women

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Thiel Fellowship
Thiel Fellowship

Offered by The Thiel Foundation

Multiple awards worth $100,000
Deadline Rolling

Are you a budding entrepreneur or inventor with a great idea? Further, have you dropped out of or decided not to attend college to pursue…

Are you a budding entrepreneur or inventor with a great idea? Further, have you dropped out of or decided not to attend college to pursue…

Are you a budding entrepreneur or inventor with a great idea? Further, have you dropped out of or decided not to attend college to pursue your idea? If so, we recommend applying for the Thiel Fellowship! The Fellowship consistently awards $100,000 to applicants who submit the most promising and impressive ideas. The fellowship is founded and funded by Peter Thiel, an entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and political activist who co-founded Paypal amongst other companies. In order to apply for the Thiel Fellowship, you must be under 23 years of age and submit an application regarding your past work and current pursuits. Applications are accepted and awards are distributed on a rolling basis.  With that said, if you have a great idea that you think you won’t be able to carry out while in college, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Seniors, College & Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents, DACA, Other

Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement

Other Category: Nontraditional

Next steps

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Education Support Award
Education Support Award

Offered by Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation

5 awards worth up to $5,000
Expected deadline August 2024

Are you a woman of at least 17 years of age with minor children and demonstrated financial need? Further, are you currently pursuing a first…

Are you a woman of at least 17 years of age with minor children and demonstrated financial need? Further, are you currently pursuing a first…

Are you a woman of at least 17 years of age with minor children and demonstrated financial need? Further, are you currently pursuing a first degree at a post-secondary level of education whose degree program is adding to the level of education you've already accomplished (ex: bachelor’s after associate’s, advanced degree after a bachelor’s)? If so, consider applying for the Education Support Award! Each year, the award grants $5,000 to five lucky applicants who meet the above criteria and who will be enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution for the upcoming school year. In order to apply, you must fill out an online application and answer five (5) short-answer and one (1) essay question. The scholarship is offered by the Patsy Mink Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing educational access, opportunity, and equity for low-income women (especially mothers), and educational enrichment for children. If you’re a degree-seeking mother with minor children and you need some financial assistance, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College & Graduate Students

Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement

Other Category: Low Income, Women

Next steps

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Audre Lorde Scholarship Award
Audre Lorde Scholarship Award

Offered by ZAMI NOBLA

Multiple awards worth $1,000
Expected deadline June 2024

The Audre Lorde Scholarship Fund is seeking to honor exceptional Black lesbians who are making a difference in their communities. ZAMI NOBLA is committed to…

The Audre Lorde Scholarship Fund is seeking to honor exceptional Black lesbians who are making a difference in their communities. ZAMI NOBLA is committed to…

The Audre Lorde Scholarship Fund is seeking to honor exceptional Black lesbians who are making a difference in their communities. ZAMI NOBLA is committed to supporting and promoting your educational pursuits by offering scholarships to older lesbians who are enrolled in accredited technical, undergraduate, and graduate programs. To apply, three letters of recommendation are necessary.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Freshman, College Junior, College Senior & Graduate Student

Minimum GPA: 3.0

Race/Ethnicity: Black/African

Other Category: Adult, LGBTQ+

Next steps

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Amery Woman’s Club Scholarship for Non-Traditional Female Students
Amery Woman’s Club Scholarship for Non-Traditional Female Students

Offered by Amery Woman's Club

2 awards worth $1,000
Expected deadline May 2024

The Amery Woman's Club Scholarship for Non-Traditional Female Students is a fantastic opportunity for women who are starting or returning to higher education after a…

The Amery Woman's Club Scholarship for Non-Traditional Female Students is a fantastic opportunity for women who are starting or returning to higher education after a…

The Amery Woman's Club Scholarship for Non-Traditional Female Students is a fantastic opportunity for women who are starting or returning to higher education after a break. The scholarship is awarded based on need, taking into account social, physical, and economic status. To be eligible, applicants must live or work in the Amery School District and provide documentation of enrollment. Don't miss out on this chance to further your education and achieve your dreams!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Other Category: Adult, Women

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Rotary Peace Fellowships
Rotary Peace Fellowships

Offered by Rotary International

Multiple awards worth Full travel costs
Expected deadline May 2024

Are you a college graduate interested in studying abroad? If so, consider applying for Rotary Peace Fellowships! The fellowships are open to college (undergraduate and…

Are you a college graduate interested in studying abroad? If so, consider applying for Rotary Peace Fellowships! The fellowships are open to college (undergraduate and…

Are you a college graduate interested in studying abroad? If so, consider applying for Rotary Peace Fellowships! The fellowships are open to college (undergraduate and graduate school) graduates whose graduation dates will be at least three years ago by the start of their fellowship programs. Applicants should wish to study peace and development issues in a study abroad program. The fellowship offers both a Master’s Program and a Professional Development Certificate Program. Depending on which you are interested in, the application and eligibility requirements differ, so check the website for more specific details. The programs are offered by the Rotary Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports education to cultivate peace. Their fellowships seek to improve health and the environment, provide quality education, and alleviate poverty across the globe. To achieve these goals, 130 applicants every year are granted fully funded fellowships to go abroad and become "catalysts for peace". If you are interested in studying abroad, participating in global networking, and making a change, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: Graduate Students

Academic Interest: Foreign Languages

Other Category: Adult, Nontraditional

Next steps

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According to research from the Center for Postsecondary and Economic Success, 40% of the current undergraduate students at US colleges and universities are nontraditional. These students do not fit into the 18 to 24 year old demographic of people who go to college directly after high school. Luckily, there are a number of scholarships for nontraditional students available!

Jump ahead to:

Many nontraditional students are working and are trying to juggle both school and a job. For information on eligibility, the award amount, and application links, for all of the scholarships for nontraditional students keep reading!

How to win scholarships for nontraditional students

As a nontraditional student, your path to higher education probably looks different than the paths of younger students. You may have had to put college on hold due to family commitments, work obligations, or unforeseen circumstances. That’s okay! Your “nontraditional” journey is part of what makes you unique and sets you apart from other applicants.  

Scholarship committees oftentimes read thousands of applications, so don’t be afraid to be different! Just remember to frame your story in a positive and productive manner, emphasizing what you’ve learned from your past, why you’re pursuing education, and what you aim to accomplish with your degree. 

If you need help with your scholarship essay, you’re in luck! We have a variety of guides for writing strong scholarship essays and applications. That includes writing 250 word essays, 500 word essays, writing essays about yourself, or starting or finishing your essays. We also have a guide on how to write a winning scholarship essay.

Resources for nontraditional students

If you’re attending school later in life, you shouldn’t feel alone on your journey! There are many resources and organizations dedicated to supporting nontraditional students on their path to higher education. Here are a couple that are worth checking out: 

Adult Student College Prep Checklist

Created by the U.S. Department of Education, this handy checklist is meant to support students who have never been to college (or started but never finished). If you need advice on things like career direction, picking a school, and securing financial aid, this is a great place to start!

College for Adults

College for Adults is an excellent resource for adults who are attending college for the first time. Here you’ll find tips on career planning, college selection, the application process, financial aid, and how to prepare for college-level courses. 

Tips for nontraditional students

Returning to school (or going for the first time) as an adult can feel daunting, but we’re here to help! Here are some tips to help you succeed as a nontraditional student: 

Find a program that works for you

As a nontraditional student, you may have other responsibilities to juggle such as family obligations and work commitments. That’s why it’s important to find a program that accommodates your schedule and lifestyle. Hybrid and online programs are both great for learners managing a busy schedule. There are also schools that offer open-entry and early-exit courses, which allow students to complete lessons at their own pace.

Tap into your support network

One of the best things you can do as a student is to take advantage of the resources and services available at your school. These include your teachers/professors, the financial aid office, tutoring and mentoring services, counseling/health services, career services, and even child care services. Be sure to learn about how your school can support you, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it!

Don’t forget about local scholarships

During your scholarship search, be sure to keep an eye out for awards offered in your local community and home state. There’s less competition for these scholarships, which means you’re more likely to win! To get started, check out our guide on how to win local scholarships!

Frequently asked questions about scholarships for adult learners:

Can nontraditional students get scholarships?

Yes! There are a number of scholarships for nontraditional students, many of which are in this post! We also recommend that nontraditional students and adult learners complete the Free Application For Federal Student Aid so that they can qualify for need-based financial aid. You can also try out our free scholarship search tool, which custom-matches you to vetted scholarship opportunities.

See also: Top College Scholarships for Adult Learners

Will I qualify for scholarships and financial aid if I am a part-time student?

It depends on the scholarship and on the specific college or university. Different scholarship organizations and colleges will have different requirements about the number of credit hours that you need to qualify for scholarships. You should also know that some scholarships and financial aid programs also have an academic requirement that says you must maintain a specific GPA to remain eligible.

Related: Guide to financial aid for part-time students

If I am a nontraditional student, will I need to submit SAT or ACT scores?

Some colleges will require all students to submit the SAT or ACT. However, there are a growing number of colleges that are test-optional and do not require any sort of testing for students. Some graduate programs, such as MBA programs, may also waive testing requirements for students with a certain amount of relevant work experience.

Also see: Advice for low test takers

 

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