Non-traditional students, including those who are returning to education after a gap, working adults, or those with family responsibilities, have unique challenges and opportunities. Many scholarships cater specifically to their needs. Here are some scholarships available for non-traditional students:
1. Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation
- Eligibility: Low-income women, particularly mothers, pursuing education or training.
- Award: Up to $5,000.
- Application: Requires proof of income, transcripts, and an essay.
2. Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
- Eligibility: Low-income women aged 35 or older pursuing a technical, vocational, associate, or first bachelor’s degree.
- Award: Varies.
- Application: Includes personal statement, financial information, and academic records.
3. Talbots Scholarship Program
- Eligibility: Women pursuing undergraduate degrees later in life.
- Award: $10,000 for up to 5 recipients, plus a $30,000 grand prize.
- Application: Requires an essay, academic records, and letters of recommendation.
4. The American Legion Non-Traditional Student Scholarship
- Eligibility: American Legion members, their children, or grandchildren.
- Award: $1,000.
- Application: Requires membership verification, academic records, and an essay.
5. Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards
- Eligibility: Women who are primary financial supporters of their families and pursuing further education.
- Award: Up to $16,000.
- Application: Requires personal statement, transcripts, and two references.
6. Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) Scholarship
- Eligibility: Non-traditional students with financial need and a clear career objective.
- Award: Varies by local Executive Women International (EWI) chapters.
- Application: Requires a personal statement, academic records, and financial need documentation.
7. Returning Student Scholarship by Cappex
- Eligibility: Students who have had a gap in their education and are returning to pursue a degree.
- Award: $1,000.
- Application: Simple online application including personal and academic information.
8. Osher Reentry Scholarship
- Eligibility: Students who have experienced a cumulative gap in their education of five or more years, pursuing their first bachelor’s degree.
- Award: Varies by institution.
- Application: Available through participating colleges and universities.
9. Imagine America Adult Skills Education Program (ASEP)
- Eligibility: Adults pursuing career education at participating career colleges.
- Award: $1,000.
- Application: Requires enrollment in a participating institution and completion of the online application.
10. Federal and State Grants
- Pell Grant: Available for undergraduates with financial need.
- State Grants: Many states offer grants specifically for non-traditional students. Check with your state’s higher education office.
Tips for Applying:
- Start Early: Give yourself ample time to gather required documents and complete applications.
- Tailor Your Essays: Write personal essays that highlight your unique experiences and motivations.
- Seek Recommendations: Obtain letters of recommendation from employers, professors, or community leaders who can speak to your strengths.
- Utilize Resources: Use financial aid offices, scholarship search engines, and community resources to find more opportunities.
- Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines and required materials for each scholarship.
By exploring these scholarships and following the application tips, non-traditional students can find financial support to help them achieve their educational goals.