Going back to school as a non-traditional student can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to financing your education. Many non-traditional students are juggling multiple responsibilities, such as working full-time, caring for children or elderly family members, or even serving in the military.
However, there are several scholarships available that specifically cater to the needs of non-traditional students. These scholarships can help alleviate the financial burden and make it possible for non-traditional students to pursue their educational goals.
In this article, we’ll explore the various non-traditional student scholarships available and how they can help make your educational dreams a reality.
Non-Traditional Student Scholarships in different categories
Scholarships for Single Parents
- Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards: This scholarship provides financial support to single mothers who are the primary source of financial support for their families.
- Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Scholarship: This scholarship supports low-income women with children who are pursuing higher education. C. Raise the Nation Scholarship: This scholarship is designed for single mothers who are pursuing a college education to improve their lives and the lives of their children.
Scholarships for Veterans
- Pat Tillman Foundation Scholarship: This scholarship supports veterans and their spouses who are pursuing higher education.
- Disabled American Veterans Scholarship: This scholarship provides financial support to disabled veterans who are pursuing higher education.
- AMVETS National Scholarship Program: This scholarship is available to veterans who have exhausted their federal educational benefits.
Scholarships for Career Changers
- American Association of University Women Career Development Grants: This grant supports women who are pursuing higher education or career advancement to change careers or re-enter the workforce.
- Association for Women in Science Educational Foundation Scholarship: This scholarship supports women who are pursuing a degree in a STEM field to change careers or re-enter the workforce.
- Society of Women Engineers Scholarship: This scholarship supports women who are pursuing a degree in engineering to change careers or re-enter the workforce
Scholarships for Adults Returning to School
- Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund: This scholarship supports low-income women who are 35 or older and pursuing higher education.
- Philanthropic Educational Organization Program for Continuing Education: This scholarship supports women who are returning to school to pursue a degree or certification after a significant absence.
- Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society Scholarship: This scholarship supports adult students who are pursuing their first undergraduate degree.
Scholarships for Working Adults
- Union Plus Scholarship Program: This scholarship is available to union members and their dependents who are pursuing higher education.
- Horatio Alger Association Career & Technical Scholarships: This scholarship supports individuals who have overcome adversity and are pursuing a career or technical education.
- Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship: This scholarship is available to community college students who are transferring to a four-year college or university.
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Scholarships for Minorities
- Hispanic Scholarship Fund: This scholarship supports Hispanic students who are pursuing higher education.
- United Negro College Fund Scholarships: This scholarship supports African American students who are pursuing higher education.
- Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund: This scholarship supports Asian and Pacific Islander American students who are pursuing higher education.
Scholarships for Community College Students
- Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship: This scholarship is available to community college students who are transferring to a four-year college or university.
- All-USA Community College Academic Team Scholarship: This scholarship recognizes and rewards outstanding community college students who are transferring to a four-year college or university.
- Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Community College Academic Team Scholarship: This scholarship recognizes and rewards outstanding community college students who are transferring to a four-year college or university.
Scholarships for Graduate Students
- Ford Foundation Fellowship Programs: This fellowship supports individuals who are pursuing graduate studies in fields that address social justice
Conclusion
Going back to school as a non-traditional student can be a challenging journey, but it doesn’t have to be financially impossible. With the numerous non-traditional student scholarships available, pursuing your educational goals is now more attainable than ever before. From scholarships for single parents to those for working adults, minorities, and community college students, there is a range of scholarships to cater to the unique needs of non-traditional students. By taking the time to research and apply for these scholarships, you can ease the financial burden of higher education and focus on achieving your academic and career aspirations. Remember to always check the eligibility requirements, application instructions, and deadlines for each scholarship to increase your chances of success. With determination and the help of non-traditional student scholarships, you can take the next step toward a brighter future.
FAQs
What is a non-traditional student? A: A non-traditional student is typically defined as someone who is over the age of 25, has taken a break from their education, and may have responsibilities such as a full-time job or caring for dependents.
What types of scholarships are available for non-traditional students? A: There are scholarships available for single parents, veterans, career changers, adults returning to school, working adults, minorities, community college students, and graduate students.
How do I know if I am eligible for a non-traditional student scholarship? A: Each scholarship has its specific eligibility requirements. You can check the scholarship’s website or contact the organization for more information.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships at once? A: Yes, you can apply for as many scholarships as you are eligible for.
When should I start applying for non-traditional student scholarships? A: It is recommended to start researching and applying for scholarships as soon as possible to maximize your chances of receiving financial aid.
What documents are typically required for scholarship applications? A: Scholarship applications usually require personal information, transcripts, essays, letters of recommendation, and proof of financial need.
How can I increase my chances of receiving a scholarship? A: To increase your chances of receiving a scholarship, make sure to thoroughly research each scholarship and follow the application instructions carefully. Also, be sure to highlight your unique qualifications and accomplishments in your application.
What can I use scholarship funds for? A: Scholarship funds can be used for tuition, fees, textbooks, and other educational expenses. Some scholarships may also cover living expenses such as rent and food.