8 Senior Citizen College Scholarships in 2025

The pursuit of knowledge for personal and professional development has no age restriction and many scholarship programs reflect this. Older adult learners considering returning to school or going for the first time can find scholarship opportunities that will help make achieving their goals more affordable.

These financial aid options are offered to older college students from multiple sources, including the federal government, nonprofits, and business organizations. Each scholarship fund has different eligibility requirements, so it is important to review individual guidelines before starting the application process.

College Scholarships for Senior Citizens

Older students should always start by submitting their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year. This form will determine your eligibility for federal financial aid programs, most commonly the Pell Grant. This is important for two reasons.

First, determining how much federal financial assistance you will be receiving will reveal how much additional money you need to cover tuition costs and other fees. Secondly, some scholarships require Pell Grant eligibility which can only be determined after submitting your FAFSA.

After you submit your FAFSA form, you should begin your scholarship application process. These scholarship programs come in multiple formats, including no-essay scholarships and other easy application programs. Before applying, be sure to review the eligibility requirements to increase your chances of receiving funding.

1. Be Bold

The Be Bold scholarship program is offered by Bold.org. This no-essay scholarship program awards $25,124 for one winner to use towards higher education expenses. Although this program isn't exclusive to older learners, there is no age cap or education status requirement.

Instead of submitting an essay, applicants create a profile on Bold.org to show how earnest and determined they are for college.

Bold.org's mission is to eliminate student debt and older adult learners should explore additional opportunities offered on the platform.

2. Osher Foundation

The Osher Foundation provides tuition scholarship funds to be allocated to low-income students going back to school to finish their undergraduate degree education. These funds aren't distributed by the Osher Foundation, instead, students should speak with their school's financial aid office to determine their eligibility.

Eligibility requirements include a gap of over five years from leaving school to returning to finish a degree, students must have demonstrated financial need, and expect to participate in the workforce after graduation.

3. American Legion Auxiliary

The American Legion Auxiliary awards five $2,000 scholarships, one per Auxiliary geographic division. This program is designed specifically for nontraditional learners returning to school for professional development. In addition to being a nontraditional or returning student, applicants must be members of The American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, or Sons of The American Legion or a veteran or military spouse.

4. Alpha Sigma Lambda

Alpha Sigma Lambda offers six scholarships worth $3,000 each and 15 scholarships worth $2,500 to eligible adult learners. There is no age cap for these scholarships, but students must be returning to college to complete a degree they started.

Students must have earned 24 credit hours in a bachelor's degree program or 12 credit hours in an associate degree program to be eligible. Graduate students aren't eligible for any scholarships through this program.

Other requirements include a 3.2 GPA during previous earned credit hours and demonstrated financial need. Students must attend a school with an ASL chapter, but they don't have to be a member.

5. Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST)

The Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) program awards scholarships to applicants who live within one of the 34 chapter regions in the United States and Canada. This program is designed for all nontraditional domestic and international students, whether they are going back to school, already enrolled, or learning new skills to advance their careers.

This program can be used for degrees at community colleges, universities, graduate schools, and vocational schools, as well as for certificate programs.

6. The Beacon Scholarship for Rural America

Carrot-Top Industries, Inc. offers $1,000 twice a year through the Beacon Scholarship for Rural America. This scholarship program is available to many applicants, from high school students to adult learners returning to school.

Students must have a 3.0 GPA, either in high school or college, and be low-income residents of a rural area. Students must also submit a 750-word essay, two letters of recommendation, and high school or college transcripts.

7. Jeanette Rankin National Scholar Grant

The Jeannette Rankin National Scholar Grant provides $2,500 scholarships for women and nonbinary students over 35 years of age, with no maximum age. These programs can be renewed for up to five years, depending on continued eligibility.

Applicants must complete a series of short essays to submit with their application questionnaire. Students can complete a six-question quiz to determine their eligibility for this scholarship program. In addition to the minimum age, students must identify as a woman or nonbinary, be a U.S. citizen, and be pursuing a first-time associate degree or bachelor's degree.

8. The Ford Family Foundation

The Ford Family Foundation awards 96 scholarships annually to students in Oregon and California. Students can earn scholarships valued at up to $40,000 yearly. Applicants are evaluated based on community service, work ethic, and academic potential. This program requires applicants to be at least 25 years old, and older adult learners are encouraged to apply.

FAQs About Senior Citizen Scholarships and Higher Education

Senior citizens looking to return to school often have questions about how to apply for scholarships to help cover their tuition costs without taking out expensive student loans.

Are There Any Scholarships Specifically for Senior Citizens Returning To College?

There are many scholarships specifically for senior citizens returning to college. Even some programs that aren't targeted at older adult learners can be used to go back to school. Some set age minimums, but it is rare for any scholarship programs to set an age maximum.

What Is the Oldest Age To Get a Scholarship?

Most scholarship programs don't have age maximums or caps. Some programs use continued career participation as an evaluation criterion, but they usually don't have a specified maximum.

How Do I Succeed in College as a Senior Citizen?

Succeeding in college can be difficult at any age, especially for senior citizens. There are a few steps that should be taken to increase your chance of completing your degree. First and foremost, prioritize your mental health and physical healthcare needs. Whether you're on campus or online, most schools will offer support services that can help you monitor your health.

You should also take the schedule that's right for you. Some students will want to do a full-time (12 or more credit hours) course load, but part-time might be better for others. Meet with an academic advisor to help figure out the best plan for your goals.

Finally, look if your state or school offers last-dollar scholarships or tuition waivers. These programs combine with federal and private scholarships to cover full tuition costs. Some states offering these programs include Hawaii, Minnesota, and New York.

Discover Online Degree Programs and Get Started Today

Whether you're returning to a state university, online college, or even trade school as an adult learner, there are many scholarship programs available. Use our resources to learn more about scholarships, and financial aid programs, and how to apply for them today.