Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students: Part 4

Tags: Students, Policy Makers

In the first two parts of this series, we explored scholarships for traditional undergraduates in the U.S. (Part 1) and for international students (Part 2), highlighting the many ways that financial support can shape access to higher education. Yet not every student’s journey to a bachelor’s degree follows a straight path from high school into college. Many individuals begin their degree later in life, return after years in the workforce, balance family responsibilities, or transfer from community colleges. These non-traditional students face unique financial and personal challenges, but scholarships remain an essential tool for making higher education possible.

While non-traditional students may not always qualify for the same awards designed for recent high school graduates, there are dedicated opportunities that recognize perseverance, life experience, and career transitions. Many PUIs offer institutional scholarships for adult learners, part-time enrollees, or transfer students, often tied to academic performance or community engagement. Beyond campus, private foundations, professional associations, and workforce development programs sponsor scholarships for veterans, parents returning to school, first-generation learners, and those retraining for new careers. The most effective approach for non-traditional students is to combine these targeted awards with broader institutional or community-based scholarships, building a layered package of support. For students who may feel out of place in a traditional college setting, scholarships serve not only as financial relief but as affirmation that their goals are valid, their pathways meaningful, and their contributions valued.

Notable Scholarship Programs for Non-Traditional Students

Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) Scholarship Program: Offers awards ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, supporting adult learners who are overcoming physical, economic, or social challenges. Administered through local chapters with variable requirements. https://ewiconnect.com/page/ASIST

Alpha Sigma Lambda Scholarship: Specifically for adult students attending institutions with an active Alpha Sigma Lambda chapter. Requires completion of at least 24 credits and a minimum GPA of 3.2. Awards are typically between $2,000 and $3,000. https://alsiglam.org/scholarships/

American Legion Auxiliary Nontraditional Student Scholarship: Awarding $2,000, this opportunity is open to non-traditional students connected to the American Legion, Auxiliary, or Sons of the American Legion. https://www.legion-aux.org/scholarships/non-traditional-student

ANTSHE Scholarships (Association for Non-Traditional Students in Higher Education): Offers several awards, including the Marius “Gabe” DeGabriel Scholarship, the Kazimour Scholarship, and the Contributors Scholarship. Award amounts vary based on field of study, academic achievement, and financial need. https://www.myantshe.org/

Imagine America Adult College Grants: Adult learners enrolled in an eligible Adult Skills Education Program (ASEP) can apply for a $1,000 grant through the Imagine America Foundation ANTSHE.

Return 2 College Scholarship Program: Open to anyone age 17+ who is starting college or already enrolled. Applicants submit a short essay (just three sentences, though multiple entries are allowed). Awards amount to $1,000 and are renewable if re-applied ANTSHE.

William E. and Phoebe B. Clark Scholarship for Returning Adult Students (Michigan State University): Available to adult learners beginning or resuming their undergraduate (or advanced) degrees. Priority is given to single parents and students returning after a spouse’s death. Award amount varies according to need and academic performance College Scholarships.