Is 40 Too Old To Finish College? 6 Tips for Going Back to School in Your 40s

Have you ever asked the question: 'Is 40 too old to finish college?' If so, you'll be happy to know that it's never too late to return to school

Going back to college is a fantastic option for individuals who started school years ago and didn't finish or have a degree in another field and want to switch careers.

Many great degree programs are available for busy adults. Keep reading to discover tips for going back to school in your 40s.

Is 40 Too Old to Go Back to College?

No, 40 is not too old to go back to college. As long as you have a plan in place and are prepared to take on the hard work, going back to school is highly beneficial.

How Many People Go Back to School at 40?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 18% of students attending college part-time in the fall of 2021 were ages 35 and over.

This percentage went up when looking at students attending two-year private for-profit institutions. Approximately 40% of part-time students at these schools were ages 35 and up.

As you can see, going back to school at 40 is quite common. A return to college offers plenty of opportunities for growth and chances to make positive career and life chances.

Is It Worth Going Back to School in Your 40s?

Yes, going back to school in your 40s is worth your time, effort, and financial commitment. Here are some reasons that returning to school is a good idea.

Fulfill a Personal Goal

Returning to school at 40 or any age can be very fulfilling for students who always wanted to complete their studies but found that life kept getting in the way.

Successfully Switch Careers

If you're dissatisfied with your current field and want a career change, returning to school is one of the best ways to achieve this goal.

Advance in Current Career

You might like your current field but want to stop making lateral moves and finally climb the ladder. Going back to school can help you qualify for advanced roles in your field.

Earn More Money

Earning a bachelor's or graduate degree in your field might help you earn more money in your current role or qualify for another role that can pay more than you're currently making.

6 Tips for Going Back to School at 40

Before taking the step of enrolling in a degree program, review these tips for going back to school at 40 or older.

1. Gather Personal Support

As an adult with a busy life, going back to school can be disruptive to individuals in your home (i.e. spouse, children, roommates, etc.).

Before heading back to school, be sure to ask your loved ones for support in case you need help with cooking, housekeeping, watching the children, etc. while you're in class and studying.

2. Decide How To Pay for School

Going back to school doesn't have to bring about mounds of debt. Look for schools affording affordable tuition and also consider scholarships and financial aid.

If you work while attending school, ask your employer about tuition reimbursement. Consider using the GI Bill and military scholarships and grants if you're active military or a veteran.

3. Consider Degree Programs for Working Adults

Some colleges and universities offer degree programs for working adults, which means classes might be delivered on a part-time basis in the evenings or on weekends.

You could also look into degree completion programs, which let students use prior college credits to finish degrees they've already started.

4. Look into Online Degree Programs

Some schools deliver online degree programs for working adults who need flexible scheduling options. Online programs allow students to study from any location and often at any time.

You might encounter self-paced programs that let students review course materials anytime they choose. Some schools offer competency-based programs so students can earn their entire degree at their own pace.

5. Create a Study Schedule

Once you've chosen your degree program and school, you'll want to prepare for the rigors of earning a degree by properly scheduling your time.

Calendars, scheduling and reminder apps, and other organizational tools can help you stay on track and avoid procrastinating as you work on assignments and study for exams.

6. Receive Academic Support

Most colleges and universities offer academic support to their students via face-to-face and online tutoring options.

You might also receive assistance via the school's library and writing and math labs.

Careers You Can Begin in Your 40s

If don't know which career to choose, consider occupations like the following that are projected to grow quickly between 2022 and 2032, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data.

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners coordinate patient care and often provide primary care. To become a nurse practitioner, you must earn an APRN master's degree and be licensed. This role expects 45% growth.

Data Scientist

Data scientists require a bachelor's degree in mathematics, computer science, or statistics. Their primary role is to extract insights from data using analytics tools. This job expects 35% growth.

Information Security Analyst

An information security analyst protects an organization's computer systems and networks. A bachelor's degree in computer science is needed for this role, which is expected to grow 32%.

Physician Assistant

A physician assistant examines and treats patients while supervised by a physician. A master's degree and licensure are required for this role, which is expected to grow 27%.

Software Developer

A software developer designs computer programs and applications. A bachelor's degree in information technology or computer science is required for this role. It is expected to grow 26%.

Enroll in a College Degree Program at 40 Today

Is 40 too old to go back to college? No, many great degree programs are available to students 40 and over. Don't wait any longer to get started. Enroll in the right program today.