10 Tips for Applying to Grad School over 60

Lifelong learners will always put effort into learning more, including making time to go back to college when they can. For some people, that time is after retirement. But for seniors, it may be hard to get back into the game.

If you're considering going to college as someone over 60, it may be a good idea to get some help.

With that in mind, here are the top 10 tips to help you apply for grad school after 60 so you can get the most out of your time as a senior.

Things To Consider When Applying to College at 60

Some things about applying to graduate school remain the same regardless of age, and there will be tips related to that below. However, there are also some unique circumstances and considerations that seniors should keep in mind. Even so, it's never too late to apply for grad school.

You'll find everything you need to choose a graduate school and apply to college in the list below.

1. Take Your Time

The most important tip for applying for grad school over 60 is to take your time � there are a lot of steps to apply for graduate school, regardless of your age, and many undergraduate students moving up in their education get help that you won't have immediate access to as a senior.

So, as you go through each step in the process of applying to graduate school, be sure to take your time to ensure you understand everything and can put your best foot forward.

2. Talk to Your Grad Program's Faculty

Before you apply to a grad program, it's a good idea to talk to the faculty of the program you're considering. This way, you can find out more about your desired program, how it's taught, and how well you get along with your potential instructors.

If you're struggling to decide between programs to apply for, the way you click with faculty can help make a difference in deciding.

3. Find Specialized Financial Aid or Free Programs

Once you've chosen the program or programs you'd like to apply to, before you start filling out any applications, take a look at the financial aid and tuition-free programs that are offered to seniors in your state.

Many public colleges in the United States offer tuition-free courses to residents over 60, and while scholarships are usually for younger students, some forms of financial aid are exclusive to returning adult students.

4. Apply as Early as You Can

Even when taking your time with your application, it's important to apply for your program as early as you're able - not only does that make you more likely to be admitted to programs with limited space, but you also have time to fix any mistakes or deal with any delays in the process.

Due to your age, things that usually take a day � such as getting old school transcripts � may take a week or longer, and applying early gives you and the school more time to deal with unexpected issues.

5. Use Your Experience to Your Advantage

As someone with a prior education and plenty of work experience under your belt, you can use that to your advantage by relating your past work and education to the program you want to be part of today.

Graduate schools always want to see the work you've put in and the progress you've made before you enter their program, and as an accomplished senior, you'll have plenty to show off, so take advantage of that to bolster your graduate application.

6. Secure Multiple Letters of Recommendation from Your Network

When you apply for grad school over 60, you still have to provide letters of recommendation. Because you have more options available to you � old managers, previous school teachers, and members of your community that you've established yourself with � it would be a good idea to get multiple letters of recommendation and choose the ones that relate most to your desired program.

7. Tailor Your Statement of Purpose

In addition to letters of recommendation, people applying to grad school need to create a statement of purpose � why they're going to grad school, what they want to accomplish, and anything else they think it's important to let their school and instructors know.

Make your statement about who you are as a person and your education journey as a senior � it will help you stand out while also showing your sincere efforts to learn.

8. Have Someone Look Over Your Application Before You Submit It

Before you submit your application, resume, letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose, consider having someone look over everything to make sure nothing is misspelled, out of place, or left unanswered.

A second pair of eyes, particularly ones that are already well-versed in college applications, like that of an admissions counselor, can go a long way toward making your application revisions easier.

9. Do Your Research for the Interview Portion

Once you've completed the rest of your application, you still need to consider the interview. Prepare by researching the school you'll be attending, the faculty, the program itself, and even the community. Create a list of questions you want to ask the faculty during your interview and be ready to answer a few surprising questions yourself.

This interview is to let your professors get to know you, and you get to know the program � make the most of it.

10. Build Up Your Academic Record and Achievements

While you're filling out your application to grad school and before you start your program interview, try to highlight and build up your academic record and previous work and school achievements.

Not only does this emphasize what you've done in the past, but it also shows you're ready for the future because you stay on top of your education and add to your experiences whenever you can � this will look great to the people considering your grad school application.

Make the Most of Your Retirement with Grad School Today

Now that you know how to apply for grad school over 60, as well as some important tips that can help you start on the right foot, it's time for you to find and apply to the grad school that suits your needs today so you can continue your journey of lifelong learning tomorrow.