Top Strategies for Securing Grants as a Non-Traditional Student
July. 16,2025
Discover effective strategies for non-traditional students to secure educational grants. From organization to application tips, learn how to maximize your chances of receiving scholarships and funding to support your return to higher education.
Top Strategies for Securing Grants as a Non-Traditional Student
Many students choose to delay their college education due to financial constraints or personal reasons. Later in life, they may decide to pursue higher education to enhance their prospects but often face stiff competition. Some students also leave school midway because of economic hardships or family commitments. Fortunately, non-traditional and returning students can achieve their academic goals by applying for various scholarships and grants.
Organizations, universities, and advocacy groups support non-traditional student funding. Examples include:
If you're a non-traditional student seeking grants, here are some essential tips to strengthen your application:
Stay Organized — Apply early and frequently. The sooner you submit your applications, the better your chances. Keep track of deadlines and create a schedule to stay on top of your submissions.
The application review process can be lengthy, so patience is vital. Continue applying to multiple opportunities while awaiting responses. Maintaining a schedule helps ensure you meet all deadlines and don't miss out.
Explore Diverse Scholarship Categories — Don't limit your applications. Seek scholarships across various categories such as merit-based, athletic, or based on specific demographics like age, single parent status, or gender. Applying broadly increases your chances.
Request Strong Recommendations — Letters of recommendation can give your application an edge. Provide your recommenders with a summary of your activities so they can write a compelling letter. Proofread the letters thoroughly to avoid mistakes that could harm your chances.
Apply for Essay-Based Scholarships — If you excel at writing, don’t overlook scholarships requiring essays. Crafting a well-thought-out essay allows you to showcase your strengths. Reusing effective essays across applications can save time and effort.
Consider Smaller Awards — Don't dismiss scholarships with lower prize amounts. They typically face less competition, and accumulating several can significantly benefit your financial situation. Applying to multiple awards increases your overall chances of success.
Finally, ensure the legitimacy of any scholarship program. Be wary of scams that ask for money or personal data like your social security number. Legitimate scholarships do not require payment or sensitive information upfront.
