Whether you’re ready to complete a degree you started years ago or begin a program for the first time, these 10 steps can help you prepare now for fall classes.
1. Develop a timeline to ensure you will submit all paperwork on time. Find a free Adult Student Checklist to plan your schedule: studentaid.ed.gov/prepare-for-college/checklists/adult
2. Did you know that students over 25 often return to school to obtain work credentials? Consider programs that may fit your career and educational needs, especially license or certificate programs.
3. Look for flexible course schedules that offer night classes, accelerated programs or online options. Plus, consider earning credit through life experience exemptions and CLEP (College Level Examination Program) exams.
4. Once you pick a program, factor in the cost of attendance, which includes tuition, fees, books, supplies and transportation. Use The College Board's Net Price Calculator at studentnpc.collegeboard.org to get a cost estimate for hundreds of colleges.
5. Apply for financial aid at fafsa.ed.gov. Of nontraditional students pursuing a bachelor's degree, more than 30 percent receive the Pell Grant according to the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study.
6. Did you know that nearly 25 percent of college students in the U.S. have children and 15 percent are single parents? Several Atlanta area college offer campus childcare centers while you’re in class. Check out the options before enrolling.
7. Get your mind prepared for the fall. Download the iTunes U app to find more than 750,000 free books, videos and lectures from universities and schools across the world.
8. Think about new ways to study. Apps like Flashcards+ can make it easy to prepare for tests and carry notes with you. This free app features pre-made flashcards for some subjects and allows you to customize others.
9. Make time for your classes and your family. Look up cooking shortcuts, such as crockpot recipes, so you can ace your family’s dinners and your tests.
10. Find ways to entertain your kids while you study. Create playtime kits that contain special toys or activities to keep them busy while you’re doing homework.
Sources: Institute for Women’s Policy Research, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Dept. of Education, The College Board, National Postsecondary Student Aid Study
