Returning Students College Planning Timeline

Define Your Educational Goals.

When returning to college after an absence, do some self-exploration to help you determine your goals. Ask yourself questions like why do I want to go back to school? Do I want to change careers? Do I plan to finish a degree I started? Or do I simply want to become more educated on a specific topic?

Consider Taking the ASVAB Test to Determine Your Interests.

If after doing a little self-exploration you still need some direction, take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). The ASVAB was originally developed to encourage students to increase awareness of their skills and interests and to understand how those skills and interests could translate into military and civilian occupations. However, the current version of the ASVAB is designed to assist all students, whether they are planning on getting a job right out of high school, joining the Military or going to a university, community college or vocational school.

The ASVAB provides you with scores in several different areas that are specifically designed to help you narrow your search for careers (or majors). The results will be provided to you on a summary sheet that not only lets you know how you scored, but also how you compare to other people who took the test. The summary sheet explains each of the scores, what they mean and gives you suggestions on how to proceed.

The ASVAB is only one of the many options available in terms of testing, but – besides being well established and thoroughly tested – the ASVAB is free, which makes it worth looking into.

Decide if Your Last School Was Right For You or If You Need to Investigate Transferring.

There are several different ways to pursue higher education. Whether or not you plan to keep working while taking classes will influence what types of schools you want to consider. To learn more about the different kinds of schools available, click here.

Meet With School Advisors.

Some schools have alternative admission processes for adults (students over the age of 25), so get guidance from an advisor at each school you’re considering.

Determine What Credentials You Already Have.

Figure out how many prior college credits you have. Even certain work skills or experiences can serve as elective credits at some colleges. So consider everything, even if it doesn’t seem suited to a specific major.

Take Any Required Tests.

Generally speaking, adult students aren’t required to take admission tests. They are, however, often required to take a placement test. Check with your school’s advisor and prepare yourself accordingly.

Establish a List of Colleges You Wish to Apply to.

Research and evaluate schools you’re interested in, remembering to pay close attention to each school’s returning student policy. For example, are the credits you earned while previously enrolled still valid? Likewise, if you’re starting at a new school, will your credits transfer? Research their policies and get an application and financial-aid form from each.

Submit Your Applications.

Make sure to include everything that may be required: college essay, recommendation letters, transcript and test scores. Pay close attention to deadlines, and follow up with each school’s admissions office to make sure your application has been received.

Consider Applying for Scholarships.

Scholarships are not limited to first-time students. Returning students qualify for many of them. Scholarships help pay for school, so research them online and look to local organizations for opportunities.

Apply for Financial Aid.

Adult and returning students can apply for financial aid just like anyone else. Submit a Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) form and get help paying for college.

Make Your Final Decision.

Choose the college that’s right for you and mail in the enrollment form, deposit check and signed financial-aid package.

Inform the Schools You Won’t Be Attending.

Once you have decided on the school you want to attend, make sure you inform the other schools that accepted you that you won’t be attending. This frees up a spot for another student.

Establish a Study Course.

Upon acceptance into a college, you’ll want to meet with a school advisor to set up an academic plan. Decide which courses you would like to take and consult this plan regularly to stay on course.

Attend Campus Orientation.

Some schools offer a special orientation specifically for nontraditional students. Always try to attend, as this can provide valuable information and give you the opportunity to meet other returning or nontraditional students.

Look Into Combining Class Work With Part-Time Employment.

Many employers work with students. See what internship or tuition reimbursement programs are available in your field of study with local employers.