Is 25 Too Old for College? Tips for Starting College at 25

It is becoming increasingly common for students who do not fit the typical idea of a college student to pursue a degree.

'College student' does not necessarily mean 18-year-old, recent high school graduate anymore.

Older students attending college have become so common that universities have a term for it: non-traditional students. Many qualities are given this label, but one of them is being over 24 years old.

Despite it being extremely common, older students often feel uncertain about attending college, worried they will feel out of place or will struggle with the dynamics of college.

This leads many to ask questions like, 'Is 25 too old for college?'

The answer to this question is, of course, a resounding no! 25 is certainly not too old for college.

There are many benefits to attending college at an older age.

In this article, we will explore some of these benefits, as well as some tips for starting college at 25.

Benefits of Starting College at 25

Not only is attending college at 25 very common, but it also has some great benefits that students may not have considered before. Explore some of them below!

More Life Experience

Traditional students attend college right out of high school. However, at 25, students have been out of high school for several years and have had much more life experience.

This can be helpful when attending college.

Work experience and more can bring a different perspective to a college classroom that can make the workload more manageable for adult students.

More Mature

Hopefully, at 25, adult learners will be more mature their their fresh-out-of-high-school classmates.

This lends itself to better time management, less struggles with procrastination, and an overall higher ability to handle responsibility.

More Focused

At 25, returning to college is likely a pursuit with a distinct goal in mind.

Adult learners typically have their eyes set on a specific goal or a clear outcome. This gives them an advantage in the college experience.

Tips for Starting College at 25

Here are some tips for starting and getting the most out of college at 25.

Get Organized

Organization is key when attending college, and even more so for older students. There are extra considerations that traditional students might not have to think about.

For example, schedule classes very carefully, ensuring they will match up with work, family responsibilities, etc.

Dedicating study time around these responsibilities is also important, and critical for completing assignments and passing classes.

Alongside time, a dedicated study space goes a long way, too. It helps the brain remember when it's time to be focused on school instead of worrying about other responsibilities.

Utilize Resources

Many colleges and universities have resource centers for non-traditional and adult students.

These offices help adult students navigate college, as well as ensure they are taking advantage of the benefits available to them.

Some schools, like the University of North Georgia, even have lounge and study areas reserved for adult students to interact with peers and have a quiet place to study.

Join a Student Organization

Alongside resource centers, many colleges and universities have student organizations intended for non-traditional students.

This can be a great thing to take advantage of because it gives students a chance to interact with students in a similar age group.

This can be important, as non-traditionally aged students often feel they are missing out on the social aspects of college.

Don't Overburden Yourself

College can be overwhelming, and adult life can be even more overwhelming. Combining the two is tricky. It's important to remember not to overextend yourself.

Don't take too many courses at once.

Establish a support network. If you're struggling, don't be afraid to ask for help, or step back and take a lighter course load each semester.

Don't let overburdening itself ruin your college experience!

Remember You Belong

A lot of the fear of either returning to or going to college for the first time at 25 comes from a feeling of not belonging, or feeling out of place. Remember that you do belong!

College is a space for you to learn, grow, and advance in your personal and professional life.

It is a space for everyone who wants to pursue it, and you deserve access to that space as much as anyone else.

Is 25 a Good Age to Go to College?

Yes, 25 is a good age to go to college!

At this age, students will have matured and gained some life experience, but may not be settled into a career yet.

It is an excellent time for the experience of college.

Is 25 Too Old to Live on Campus?

No, 25 is not too old to live on campus. It is uncommon for university dormitories to have any sort of age limit, and living on campus can be a good option for even adult learners.

Students should keep in mind, however, that they may have to deal with noisy younger students, or possibly a troublesome roommate.

Start Your College Journey

25 is not too old for college. If higher education is something that you want to pursue, start your college journey today!