Dreaming of a diploma? It’s never too late to go to college

Joan B. Reid

50plus Magazine

 

Do you feel a longing whenever you hear about older adults who overcame obstacles to fulfill the dream of earning a college degree? You may wonder, “Could I go back to college and earn my degree?” Yes, you can!

 

Returning to college after a decades-long hiatus is not an easy decision to make or commitment to keep. You’re juggling one or more jobs, a household, kids’ college costs, and/or helping elderly parents.

 

The good news is online degrees are flextime, accelerated and accredited. Earning online credits toward a four-year degree as a life-experienced adult is absolutely doable.

 

The better news is that employer reimbursement and state, federal and military aid can help. As an undergrad, you may be eligible for a PELL Grant or federally subsidized loans. Even better, a mature student’s life and work experience (with previous college credits) often provide a 90-credit jumpstart toward a four-year degree. A traditional undergraduate BA or BS requires 120 credits, or approximately 40 courses. A 50-something online student may need only 10 three-credit courses.

 

As a former financial aid counselor, I helped more than 200 adults earn college degrees. After graduation they found better career and employment opportunities, greater income potential, increased self-confidence and the satisfaction of achieving an important life goal.

 

Sub> Challenges & Next Steps

 

The major decision to return to college deserves a heart-to-heart with your family. Students with family support fare best academically. Your family will be prepared for your time and energy to be tight and for possible financial sacrifices.

 

It’s important to search for colleges with accredited online degree programs. Then go to StudentAid.ed.gov to complete the federal loan application (no fee). This site also links to scholarships and grants.

 

Also, check with your employer about college reimbursement. Most employers require a grade of C or better for reimbursement. Active-duty military students and veterans are also eligible for tuition assistance through the branch in which they served.

 

It’s never too late to fulfill the dream of a college degree.

 

Joan B. Reid has been a financial aid counselor, a teacher, and more. She is author of  “Joyful Journey: A Woman’s Path to Retirement.”