Scholarships for Adult Learners: How to Afford College as a Working Adult

Going back to school as a working adult is a big step, but financial aid can make it more accessible. Whether you're looking for scholarships for adult learners, grants for adult learners, or other financial aid for working adults, there are many resources available to help fund your education at Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU).

Types of Financial Aid for Adult Learners

Financial aid isn’t just for recent high school graduates. As a working adult, you may qualify for various funding options, including:

• Scholarships for Adult Learners – Merit-based, need-based, or career-focused scholarships that do not require repayment.
• Grants for Adult Learners – Federal, state, or institutional grants designed to assist students with financial need.
• Employer Tuition Assistance – Some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs to help employees upskill.
• Federal and Private Student Loans – Borrowed money that must be repaid, often with flexible repayment options for adult learners.
• Work-Study Programs – Opportunities to earn money while taking classes.

How to Apply for Financial Aid at MVNU

MVNU provides a straightforward financial aid process to help you access available funding. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Complete the FAFSA – The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines your eligibility for grants for adult learners and federal aid. Visit studentaid.gov and enter MVNU’s School Code: 007085 to ensure your application is linked to Mount Vernon Nazarene University.
2. Explore MVNU Scholarships & Grants – MVNU offers various funding options specifically for adult learners. Learn more about available opportunities on the MVNU financial aid page.
3. Research External Scholarships – Sites like Fastweb and Scholarships.com help adult students find additional scholarships.
4. Check Employer Benefits – If applicable, speak with your HR department to see if tuition reimbursement or assistance is available.
5. Review Loan Options – If additional funding is needed, research federal and private student loan programs with repayment plans suited for working adults.

Scholarships & Grants for Adult Learners

Many organizations recognize the challenges of balancing work, life, and education and offer funding specifically for adult students. Some scholarships and grants to explore include:

• Federal Pell Grants – Need-based grants for undergraduate students.
• State Grants – Many states offer grants for adult learners pursuing higher education.
• Private Scholarships – Organizations like The Imagine America Foundation support returning adult students.

Making College Affordable as a Working Adult