How to Go Back to School as an Adult
April 1, 2026 2026-06-25 14:23How to Go Back to School as an Adult
More working adults are heading back to school. Here’s how to make it work.
- Michael Mahaffey
Table of Contents
For millions of working adults, a college degree was always part of the vision. Then a job offer came through, bills got real, or your family needed you, and school moved to the back burner.
Eventually, earning a degree started to feel less like a goal and more like a what-if.
Here’s the thing—going back to school as an adult is more convenient than ever. Online programs like those from OU Online offer flexible degrees designed around the needs of people with busy lives and careers.
Whether you’re returning to finish a degree, advance your career, or achieve a personal goal, the degree you’ve been putting off may be closer than you think—with a little planning.
Characteristics of Adult Learners
If you’re concerned that you’ll be the only adult taking classes when you come back to school, you can put that worry aside. Working adults over the age of 25 make up 68% of students in online degree programs, according to Research.com, and roughly 40% of all U.S. college enrollments, according to EdSurge.com.
Adults who return to college bring distinct advantages:
Purpose-driven focus – You know what you want from a degree and how to manage your time. Having specific goals and a clear understanding of what it takes to achieve them is a strong predictor of academic success.
Stronger commitment – Research shows adults are more likely to complete assignments on time, engage more deeply, and take feedback seriously. Adult students understand the value of the education they’re receiving and tend to make the most of the opportunity.
Real-world experience – Years of managing projects, navigating conflict, and working under pressure are assets that enrich classroom discussion and help you connect theory to real-world practice.
Tips for Going Back to School as an Adult
Going back to school as a working adult presents a distinct set of challenges. Planning ahead to address them will ease your transition into life as an online student:
Choose the right program – It’s worth taking the time to find the program that meets your personal and career goals. Prioritize fit over prestige and look for online or hybrid formats that give you the flexibility to engage with coursework on your terms.
Start slow – Overloading your schedule is a common mistake adult students make. Tell your advisor about everything you manage at home and work to craft a schedule that works for you.
Set expectations at home and work – Juggling work, family, and coursework is hard. Talk to your family about the time you’ll need for your studies. Family support will help you feel comfortable devoting time to your studies. Keep a balanced course load and block dedicated study, family, and personal time each week. It’s all important!
Use your resources – Most online programs, including those offered through OU Online, offer support services including 24/7 access to tutoring, writing support, and wellness programs. If you’re struggling in a course, reach out to your professor, advisor, or student success coach right away. The earlier you ask for help, the sooner you can take steps to get back on track.
Financial Aid for Adult Learners
For many adults, cost is the top barrier to returning to school, but many significantly underestimate the support available to them. Knowing your options can ease financial stress and help minimize your out-of-pocket costs.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) – Your first move to secure college funding is completing and submitting the FAFSA. It’s free to fill out and typically takes under an hour.
FAFSA provides more than $120 billion each year to help students pay for college. Some schools also require a completed FAFSA before they consider you for merit-based aid. Even if you are unsure whether you qualify for federal assistance, filing one is usually worth it.
Scholarships and grants – Many colleges offer scholarships for returning adult students. Scholarships offered by state workforce development programs, professional associations, and community organizations are also worth exploring.
Employer benefits – Many employers offer full or partial tuition assistance, yet fewer than 10% of eligible employees use it. This benefit can provide up to $5,250 per year tax-free. Check with your employer to see what education benefits are available.
Tax credits – Tax credits are often overlooked to defray the out-of-pocket cost of returning to school. The Lifetime Learning Credit offers up to $2,000 per year for qualified tuition and education expenses. Unlike many education benefits, it has no limit on the number of years you can claim it, making it ideal for working adults in online programs.
The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) offers up to $2,500 per year during the first four years of your undergraduate education if you’re enrolled at least half-time. Up to 40% of the AOTC is refundable, meaning you could receive up to $1,000 back even if you owe no taxes.
Veterans and Military – The GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program help cover tuition, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for eligible veterans. Military spouses may qualify for MyCAA (My Career Advancement Account). For personalized guidance on any of these benefits, OU’s Veteran Student Services center can help you navigate your options and maximize your support.
The Hardest Part Is Starting
Most adult students will tell you the hardest part of returning to school was deciding to start. The pressures that come with returning to school are real, but so is the payoff.
OU Online offers programs designed around the needs of adult learners. Take the next step today and schedule a call with an enrollment coach to learn more about our programs and student resources.
