Returning to school as an adult can be difficult when money is already tight. Tuition, books, transportation, child care, and regular household expenses can quickly add up. Fortunately, federal programs may help eligible adults reduce some education costs.
Federal grants are especially valuable because they generally do not have to be repaid, although some programs have conditions that could require repayment. Adults can explore grants for eligible colleges, community colleges, vocational schools, and career training programs.
Here are several federal resources worth understanding before enrolling.
1. Federal Pell Grants
The Federal Pell Grant is one of the main federal grants available to undergraduate students with financial need. Adults returning to school may qualify if they meet federal requirements and attend an eligible program.
Pell Grants can potentially be used at participating: Community colleges Four-year colleges and universities Technical schools Vocational schools Eligible certificate and career programs
The amount a student may receive depends on federal eligibility rules and can change each award year.
Importantly, federal student aid does not have a general age limit. Being out of school for many years does not automatically prevent an adult from receiving assistance.
A Pell Grant usually does not have to be repaid. However, repayment may be required in certain situations, such as withdrawing from a program early.
2. Other Federal Grants to Explore
Some students may qualify for additional federal grants.
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) provides assistance to undergraduate students with exceptional financial need. Participating schools receive limited FSEOG funding, so money may not be available to every eligible student.
Adults preparing for certain teaching careers may also encounter the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant.
TEACH Grants have specific service requirements. Recipients generally must complete qualifying teaching service after school. Failure to meet the program's requirements can cause the grant to be converted into a loan that must be repaid.
Before accepting any grant, carefully review its requirements with the school's financial aid office.
3. Complete the FAFSA to Find Federal Aid
For most adults exploring federal student grants, the **Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an important starting point.
The FAFSA helps determine eligibility for federal student aid. States and colleges may also use FAFSA** information when considering students for other assistance.
Completing the FAFSA does not require a student to accept loans. Instead, it provides information that schools use to determine what types of financial aid may be available.
Adults may need to provide information about:
- Income and finances
- Personal identification
- Household circumstances
- Schools they are considering
Do not automatically assume that your income is too high or that your age makes you ineligible. Eligibility depends on federal rules and the information provided through the FAFSA.
The FAFSA is free. Adults should look for official information from Federal Student Aid, an office of the U.S. Department of Education, when preparing their application.
4. Look Beyond Traditional College Grants
Adults interested in career training may have additional options through federal workforce programs.
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) supports employment and training services throughout the country. Depending on eligibility and local availability, adults may be able to receive assistance for approved job-training programs.
An American Job Center can be a useful place to learn about local opportunities. Services may include career planning, job searches, skills assessments, and connections to training programs.
Training opportunities can vary by location and may focus on industries such as:
- Healthcare
- Information technology
- Manufacturing
- Transportation
- Construction and skilled trades
Adults should contact their state or local workforce agency to learn which programs are currently available and what eligibility requirements apply.
5. Compare Costs Before Enrolling
Receiving a grant does not automatically mean a program will be affordable. Before enrolling, compare the total cost with the financial assistance offered.
Consider expenses such as:
- Tuition and fees
- Books and supplies
- Computers or equipment
- Transportation
- Child care
- Certification or licensing costs
Ask the school's financial aid office whether the school and specific program qualify for federal student aid.
Career-focused students should also research the credential they will receive and whether employers commonly recognize it. Be cautious of programs that promise guaranteed jobs, unusually high salaries, or immediate financial success.
Returning to school can open opportunities to develop new skills and prepare for a different career, but adults do not have to begin the process without exploring available assistance.
Federal Pell Grants, FSEOG, specialized grants, FAFSA, and workforce programs such as WIOA may help eligible adults manage education and training costs.
Start by completing the FAFSA and researching participating schools. If career training is your goal, consider contacting an American Job Center as well.
Being older or spending years away from school does not automatically make federal assistance unavailable. By researching programs, comparing costs, and understanding eligibility requirements, adults can make a more informed decision about whether returning to school fits their educational and career goals.