Deciding to go back to school as an adult can be a big decision. Many adults who have been out of school for years wonder if they are too old to head back to the classroom. The truth is, it’s never too late to go back to school! People of all ages can benefit from returning to education.
There are many reasons why adults may consider going back to school later in life. Some want to change careers, while others want to finally earn the degree they never finished. Going back to school can open up new job opportunities, result in higher pay, provide a sense of personal achievement, and allow you to pursue interests you’re passionate about.
Of course, heading back to school as an older adult comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. You may need to balance studies with work or family obligations. Financing your education can also be tricky. However, with proper planning and commitment, these obstacles can be overcome.
So what age is too late to go back to school? The short answer is: there is no age limit on learning! While there are certain factors to keep in mind at different life stages, people well into their senior years have successfully earned degrees. Read on to learn more about what to consider when deciding if and when to return to school later in life.
What are some reasons adults go back to school?
There are many motivations that prompt adults to head back to the classroom. Here are some of the top reasons:
Career change
Many adults decide to go back to school to prepare for a career change. They may want to switch industries, progress higher in their current field, or learn skills for an entirely new profession. Additional education can expand your knowledge and help you pivot your career in a new direction.
Earn a degree
Some adults have previously dropped out of high school or college. Going back allows them to finally earn the degree they’ve missed out on. Completing this goal can improve self-esteem and open more job opportunities.
Job requirements
Increasingly, employers require candidates to have a college degree, even for positions that previously did not. Going back to school can help you meet the minimum education requirements for more jobs.
Skill development
Learning new skills is another incentive for returning to school. Adults may want to sharpen their skills in a particular area to improve job performance, become an expert in a hobby or interest, or master new technologies.
Social & personal enrichment
School offers social, intellectual, and personal enrichment. Lifelong learners often go back to school simply for the joy of learning something new, socializing with others, and engaging in campus activities.
What are some potential challenges for adult students?
While heading back to school comes with many rewards, adult learners also face unique challenges:
Time management
Juggling education with family, work, and other responsibilities can be difficult. Adults need to plan their schedules carefully and be prepared to make sacrifices.
Cost
Tuition and other education expenses can really add up. Looking into financial aid options is crucial for adult students with limited budgets. Working while in school may be necessary.
Technology skills
Many older adults find keeping up with classroom technology intimidating. Brushing up on computer literacy skills beforehand is helpful.
Social adjustment
Being surrounded mostly by much younger traditional students takes getting used to. Making friends your own age provides needed support.
Academic rustiness
Adults who’ve been out of school for many years may struggle to get back into the groove of studying, test-taking, and writing papers. Refresher courses can help.
How does age affect the decision to go back to school?
Age itself need not be a deciding factor in determining whether or not to return to education. However, there are some unique considerations for students at different life stages:
Mid-career adults
For those established in their careers in their 30s-40s, going back to school may be an ideal way to boost their qualifications or pivot to a more meaningful line of work. The logistics of juggling school, career, and family can be challenging, but this age group tends to have the life experience to handle it.
Nearing retirement age
Older adults in their late 50s-60s who find themselves with extra time and freedom as they approach retirement may appreciate going back to school simply for enjoyment and mental stimulation. Working toward a degree at a leisurely part-time pace can be fulfilling.
Seniors
It’s becoming more common for even seniors in their 70s and beyond to head back to school thanks to extended lifespans. Online courses and flexible schedules can help tailor the experience. However, financial and health limitations may restrict choices at this age.
Financial considerations when going back as an adult
Financing an education later in life should factor into any decision to go back to school. Here are some key considerations:
Tuition costs
Tuition rates have skyrocketed over recent decades and going back to school requires a significant financial investment. Do thorough research to find the most affordable options.
Lost income
Reducing work hours usually means cutting income. Have a plan in place to make up for any loss, such as saving up beforehand or securing financial aid.
Financial aid options
Look into grants, scholarships, federal student loans, employer tuition reimbursement programs, and other assistance targeted at non-traditional students.
Budget diligently
Get prepared to take a frugal approach to your lifestyle while in school. Trim expenses, look for deals, and be strategic to minimize costs.
Current debt obligations
Be realistic about how much additional debt is sensible for your situation. Avoid over-borrowing, and have a repayment plan for any loans.
How can adults prepare for success?
To set yourself up for success as an adult student, consider these preparatory steps:
Evaluate your commitments
Take an honest look at your current work schedule, family obligations, financial situation, and priorities to determine if pursuing a degree is feasible now. Make adjustments where necessary.
Choose the right program
Select a degree program that aligns with your goals and caters to non-traditional learners. Investigate online, night, part-time, and accelerated programs.
Refresh key skills
Before classes start, brush up on fundamental math, writing, computer, and study skills so you’re ready to dive back into academics. Look into prep courses.
Utilize campus resources
Connect with admissions counselors, academic advisors, tutoring centers, and student groups to get the support you need. Don’t be shy about asking for help.
Talk to your family
Having an open discussion with family helps align expectations and ensure you have their support through this process. Enlist help from them when you can.
Get organized
Make organization and time management your friends! Use planners, schedules, apps, and other tools to keep everything in order and maximize study time.
What steps can help secure financial aid?
Paying for school is often a major concern holding adults back from returning. Here are some tips to obtain financial aid:
Submit the FAFSA
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid is essential to get in the running for grants, loans, and work-study assistance. Do this each year you plan to attend.
Research scholarships
Seek out both school-specific and private scholarships. Many are geared specifically towards non-traditional students.
Look into employer benefits
Check if your company offers tuition reimbursement or other education benefits. This can offset the costs significantly.
Prioritize public schools
Public colleges and universities tend to be more affordable than private institutions. If location is not an issue, broaden your search.
Go part-time
Taking fewer classes can drastically cut tuition. Earning your degree part-time over more years may make it more affordable.
Become a TA or RA
Working as a teaching assistant or research assistant provides tuition remission and a paycheck. It also builds academic skills.
Use work earnings
Pick up part-time work or save up money before starting school to help fund some of the costs yourself.
What are some alternative paths besides a traditional degree?
While a standard two or four-year college degree is a common path, it’s not the only option. Some alternatives worth considering include:
Vocational programs
Shorter vocational programs at career or technical schools take less time and money while teaching skills for specific jobs.
Community college
Local community colleges often have flexible schedules and open enrollment for very affordable tuition rates. Many partner with four-year schools for easy transfers.
Professional certification
Some industries allow you to take a certification exam without enrolling in a full degree program. This can quickly boost credentials.
Online classes
From online degree programs to individual online courses, virtual learning allows adults to advance their education on their own schedule.
MOOCs
Massive open online courses (MOOCs) are a more informal option to learn new topics and skills affordably from top institutions.
Continuing education
Many schools offer non-degree adult education courses at night or on weekends on both academic and recreational topics.
Apprenticeship or training programs
Paid apprenticeships let you earn as you learn new trades. Some employers also provide on-the-job training programs.
How can you balance school with other responsibilities?
Going back to school while juggling work, family life, relationships, and more poses challenges. Some strategies to achieve balance include:
Set a schedule
Use your planner to allocate specific times for classes, studying, other responsibilities, and free time. Share this schedule with others.
Have a support network
Don’t take this on alone! Enlist partner, friends, and family to help out with tasks like meals, rides, childcare, errands, etc.
Outsource where possible
Consider hiring services like tutors, housecleaning, yard work, and laundry to free up time for school.
Don’t overcommit
Be selective about which activities and obligations to continue and which to put on hold while in school. Learn to say no.
Design a study space
Have a dedicated area for learning at home. This psychological separation helps maximize focus when it’s time to study.
Stay connected
Make efforts to nurture existing relationships so those important personal connections aren’t neglected.
Prioritize health needs
Eat nutritiously, exercise, get proper sleep, and tend to medical issues to maintain the energy and focus required to take on a busy schedule.
Conclusion
Despite any challenges, returning to school as an adult can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make. Most obstacles concerning your age, responsibilities, and finances can be overcome with proper planning. While it takes commitment and effort, you’re never too old to achieve your academic goals!
Keep an open mind, utilize available resources, and you’ll be prepared to succeed no matter your age. The benefits of furthering your education are immense. Don’t let fear of the unknown hold you back from an exciting new chapter in life. Your journey toward new skills, knowledge, professional and personal growth is waiting. Take the next step and go for it!
| Life Stage | Pros of Going Back to School | Potential Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-Career (30s-40s) |
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| Pre-Retirement (50s-60s) |
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| Senior (70s +) |
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