Best Online Colleges for Nontraditional Students

Returning to higher learning after a long layoff can pose unique challenges. Fortunately, many schools — including many top colleges and universities — do a good job of helping nontraditional college students make successful transitions back into the physical or virtual classroom.

This guide contains information about available learning options, how to determine whether or not you qualify for federal financial aid, and other useful tips for nontraditional learners.

The methodology used to determine the following ranking incorporates statistics and the opinions of experts in the industry. Additionally, we considered surveys from students reporting on their level of satisfaction with their educational experiences as nontraditional learners.

Frequently Asked Questions From Nontraditional Students

Should I go back to school?

Going back to school can open appealing career and salary opportunities. You can pursue a job in a new industry or leverage your degree to earn advancement in your current field. College degree programs provide crucial training for certain career paths and look good on a resume.

However, returning to college — even part-time, online college — can be a big time commitment. You should honestly assess their current time commitments to work and family before deciding to return to school.

Can I go to school and work at the same time?

Yes, students can work while attending classes. However, students probably can't work full time andattend classes full time. Many students who wish to continue their full-time jobs will need to enroll in a part-time or self-paced program, extending their graduation timeline. Conversely, students who wish to study full time will likely find their work hours significantly impacted. The key for nontraditional students is to strike a balance that works for them.

Are nontraditional students successful in college?

The most successful nontraditional students take time to assess their learning needs and determine how best to balance these against outside obligations before enrolling in a college degree program.

This may include setting up a support system and cutting back on work hours. Nontraditional students should lay out an academic plan and assess how to adjust their current life to accommodate that plan.

Is getting a college degree worth it?

Deciding whether a college degree is worth it depends on the individual person and their career aspirations. Begin by determining what kind of job you want and look into the qualifications you'll need to earn that role. If the job requires a degree, consider if returning to college is right for you.

When considering a return to college, be sure to assess your resources – such as your finances and available time – before making a decision.

When is the FAFSA typically due?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is typically due at the end of June afterthe school year in which a student needs aid. This application is required for individuals to receive federal financial aid, including federal student loans, work-study opportunities, and grants.

The FAFSA requires detailed financial information from each student to determine how much financial aid they qualify for. Allow plenty of time to gather the required information and fill out the form.

What Is a Nontraditional Student?

The phrase "nontraditional college student" refers to a diverse demographic group. In the most general sense, nontraditional learners include anyone who did not enroll in college shortly or immediately after completing high school.

Nontraditional college students often hold jobs, family responsibilities, or other outside commitments that may present scheduling and life balance challenges. Nontraditional students may also prefer alternative learning environments, such as self-paced programs or the ability to earn credits based on their personal and professional experiences.

Why Should Students Choose Nontraditional College Routes?

Grading

It's estimated that roughly 12% of learners suffer from anxiety. While the causes of anxiety vary widely, many students feel intimidated by grades and tests in school, which can cause undue stress. Some nontraditional students might do better at a college without the traditional A-F grading system. Some programs that cater to older learners may utilize pass/fail grading rubrics. This format can reduce the stress related to individual assignments, enabling students to focus on their overall course experience and success.

Study Options

For students who struggle with the thought of picking just one major or one career path, choosing a nontraditional college that offers interdisciplinary study options might better serve their needs. Some schools allow students to pick a "focus" to their studies and tailor their class schedule according to their preferences, rather than simply following a predesigned major in the school's course catalog.

Location Variety

Some nontraditional students may feel like they learn more about life and themselves while on the move. These individuals may not want to stay tied down to the same college for four years. Learners in this category should consider enrolling at a college that maintains multiple campuses and emphasizes international study abroad programs.

Practical Work Experience

People who prefer learning by doing should seek out a college that emphasizes practical experience through internships and mentorships with professionals. While vocational schools serve the needs of some nontraditional students, those looking to blend academia with work experience may benefit from a school offering programs that emphasize hands-on learning.

Featured Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Why Do Adults Go Back to College?

Older adults return to college for many reasons. Some want to finish degrees they started earlier in life, while others decide to pursue a new passion and change careers. Another common reason relates to career advancement and earning potential. Many nontraditional college students want to upgrade to a graduate degree, obtain a degree in a different subject, or retrain for a higher-paying profession.

What Should You Consider Before Going Back to School?

Going back to school can help people change careers or find advancement in their current field. However, individuals should consider how their lives will change if they decide to return to school.

A bachelor's program typically requires 120 credits. Full-time students taking a regular course load typically graduate within four years. An associate program requires 60 credit hours. Full-time students typically need two years to graduate.

Workers with full-time or part-time careers will need to consider how they will juggle their work with their studies. Individuals with family obligations will also need to adjust their schedules to ensure they have enough time for classes and homework.

Nontraditional students must be realistic about their time constraints and understand that their current schedule will likely change. Before taking on new commitments, students should prioritize essential time commitments — like family obligations and coursework.

Students can mitigate these challenges with the help of a strong support system, including friends, family members, and academic counselors.

Can Nontraditional Students Get Financial Aid?

Nontraditional college students may be able to access many forms of financial aid, including federal and private student loans. However, personal finance experts generally recommend that degree-seekers exhaust all other financial aid options before considering private loans. Government-issued loans usually offer more favorable repayment terms and other protections/benefits related to deferment and forbearance.

Scholarships and grants are other appealing options, as these forms of financial aid do not require repayment. Some programs may have age cutoffs, while others remain open to applicants of all ages. You can also find scholarships and grants specifically earmarked for nontraditional and older adult students. To learn more about various forms of financial aid, peruse our financial aid guide.

What Is the Age Cutoff for the FAFSA?

For many students, the search for financial aid begins by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). After submitting the FAFSA, the office of Federal Student Aid automatically evaluates your eligibility for all forms of federal financial aid.

Nontraditional and older adult students who fill out the FAFSA must adhere to the same processes and deadlines as other students. You can also generate an estimate of how much aid you should qualify for by using the federal government's FAFSA4caster tool.

Best Online Colleges for Nontraditional Students

Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team

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