Returning to education as a mature student can be daunting, but scholarships specifically designed for older learners make the journey smoother. Whether you’re advancing your career, switching fields, or fulfilling a lifelong dream, numerous financial aid opportunities are tailored to mature students in the US. In this article, we provide an authoritative, in-depth guide to 15 scholarships that cater to mature students, helping you fund your educational journey.
Table of Contents
What Are Mature Student Scholarships?
Mature student scholarships are financial aid opportunities aimed at students returning to education after an extended break or pursuing studies later in life. These scholarships recognize life experience, unique challenges, and financial needs often associated with older students.
Eligibility Criteria for Mature Student Scholarships
While specific requirements vary by scholarship, the most common eligibility criteria include:
- Age: Most scholarships define mature students as those aged 25 or older.
- Education Status: Applicants must be enrolled in or accepted by an accredited institution in the US.
- Financial Need: Many programs prioritize applicants with demonstrated financial hardship.
- Non-Traditional Background: Preference is often given to students re-entering education after a significant break.
Top 15 Scholarships for Mature Students in the US
1. The Osher Reentry Scholarship
- Overview: This scholarship supports students aged 25-50 returning to college after a five-year gap.
- Eligibility: Applicants must be pursuing their first bachelor’s degree and demonstrate financial need.
- Award Amount: Up to $5,000 annually.
- Application Link: Learn more and apply
2. Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
- Overview: For low-income women aged 35 and older pursuing technical, vocational, or undergraduate degrees.
- Eligibility: Applicants must meet income requirements and demonstrate a commitment to education.
- Award Amount: Varies by need.
- Application Link: Apply here
3. Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation Grant
- Overview: Provides financial aid to low-income women pursuing postsecondary education.
- Eligibility: Women aged 17 and older with demonstrated financial need.
- Award Amount: Up to $5,000.
- Application Link: Learn more
4. Alpha Sigma Lambda Scholarships
- Overview: Recognizes non-traditional students excelling academically while balancing personal responsibilities.
- Eligibility: Applicants must be members of Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society.
- Award Amount: $3,000.
- Application Link: Details here
5. Return 2 College Scholarship Program
- Overview: Open to students aged 17 or older pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies.
- Eligibility: Submit a 200-word essay explaining how the scholarship would help achieve your goals.
- Award Amount: $1,000.
- Application Link: Apply now
6. Adult Skills Education Program (ASEP) Scholarship
- Overview: For adults pursuing vocational training, associate degrees, or higher education.
- Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate financial need and career focus.
- Award Amount: $1,000.
- Application Link: More info
7. College JumpStart Scholarship
- Overview: Designed for students of all ages committed to personal development through education.
- Eligibility: Open to mature students, high school seniors, and college freshmen.
- Award Amount: $1,000.
- Application Link: Learn more
8. Imagine America Adult Skills Education Program
- Overview: Helps adult learners enrolled in participating colleges.
- Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate a career-oriented focus.
- Award Amount: $1,000.
- Application Link: Details here
9. Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award
- Overview: For women who provide primary financial support for their families.
- Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled in or accepted into a postsecondary program.
- Award Amount: $1,000-$10,000.
- Application Link: Apply now
10. Working Parent College Scholarship
- Overview: Specifically for parents balancing work, family, and school.
- Eligibility: Open to students 18 years or older with children.
- Award Amount: $1,000.
- Application Link: Learn more
11. Kaplan University Adult Learner Grant
- Overview: For adult learners enrolled at Kaplan University.
- Eligibility: Demonstrated financial need and career commitment.
- Award Amount: Varies.
- Application Link: Details here
12. Finish Your Degree Scholarship
- Overview: Aims to help adults complete unfinished degrees.
- Eligibility: Applicants must have completed at least half of their degree program.
- Award Amount: Varies.
- Application Link: Apply here
13. AARP Foundation Women’s Scholarship Program
- Overview: Supports women over 50 seeking new job skills or pursuing higher education.
- Eligibility: Demonstrated financial need and career aspirations.
- Award Amount: Varies.
- Application Link: Learn more
14. Workforce Shortage Scholarship
- Overview: For students pursuing high-demand career fields.
- Eligibility: Enrollment in a relevant program and financial need.
- Award Amount: Varies.
- Application Link: Details here
15. Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting Scholarship
- Overview: Supports women pursuing accounting degrees.
- Eligibility: Open to non-traditional students and mothers.
- Award Amount: $1,000-$16,000.
- Application Link: Apply now
FAQs About Mature Student Scholarships in the US
1. Can I apply for multiple scholarships at once?
Yes, applying for multiple scholarships increases your chances of receiving financial aid.
2. Are these scholarships available to international students?
Some scholarships are open to international students. Review each program’s eligibility criteria.
3. How do I demonstrate financial need?
Provide tax returns, income statements, or letters explaining your financial situation.
4. Do I need to be enrolled full-time?
Not necessarily. Many scholarships accept part-time students as well.
5. Are these scholarships renewable?
Some scholarships offer funding for multiple years. Check the terms for each program.
Conclusion
Mature students face unique challenges, but scholarships can significantly reduce financial barriers. Programs like the Osher Reentry Scholarship, Jeannette Rankin Fund, and Patsy Takemoto Mink Foundation provide invaluable support. Take the first step by exploring these opportunities and submitting your applications today.
For more resources, visit getscholarshipnow.com to discover additional funding options for your educational journey.
