It's Never Too Late to Learn Something New
Once a person turns 55 years old, they are entering the realm of becoming a senior citizen. Once someone reaches this age, there are certain benefits, such as:
- Tax deductions for seniors.
- Early withdrawal penalties are removed from retirement accounts.
- Health insurance is more affordable.
- Senior discounts for plenty of businesses.
- Travel deals for seniors.
But there is another advantage of reaching this age or older that is often overlooked. There are college scholarships available for seniors, plus college grants as well.
Age Is Just a Number
There is a section of society that mistakenly believes that once you become a senior citizen, you are pretty much coasting until your ticket is called. Don’t believe that for a second. Many seniors take this opportunity to start a second career where they can have fun.
College Scholarships for Seniors
There are countless scholarships available for senior citizens, but many of them only pertain to a particular college. The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) has a strong list of scholarships (and grants) available, and many do not have much competition as quite a number of people do not realize scholarships for seniors exist. It could allow for someone to receive a huge finance-saving deal!
Northern Michigan University
If a senior is living anywhere near northern Michigan and is interested in furthering their education without having to commit financially, Northern Michigan University has a complete tuition scholarship for senior citizens 62 years old or older. To land the scholarship, they must first take courses on campus, so they understand what they are signing up for.
Applicants may use the scholarship to enroll in a degree program. All it takes is to submit an application to the Admissions Office and fill out the proper paperwork for the Senior Citizen Scholarship.
Methodist University
Methodist University is located in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and they value enabling senior citizens the chance to continue their education in its classrooms. Individuals who are 65 years old or older can enroll in undergraduate classes without the need of having to pay tuition. The classes are only available on campus and cannot be taken online.
The person must submit a copy of a birth certificate or identification card stating their name and date of birth to the Office of Financial Aid or Student Accounts. The amount can vary with all scholarships and grants, so enrolling early is always a good idea.
Wallace Community College Selma
Senior citizens who are 60 years old or older and live in Alabama may want to consider enrolling at Wallace Community College Selma. Located, appropriately enough, in Selma, Alabama, WCCS offers free tuition for those enrolled in either the technical or academic division.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can provide funds for students through educational grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and federal student loans. This form is used by states, colleges, universities, the federal government, and other organizations to decide who is issued financial aid.
As there is no age limit, senior citizens can apply as well. It is always wise to complete the FAFSA form early as it is often first come, first serve.
Check What Is Available in the State You Live
There are quite a number of states out there that provide special accommodations for their senior citizens as it entails to furthering their education at colleges and universities. It would be wise to ask what your state may do for its senior citizens.
For instance, all of Florida’s state universities waive tuition and fees for Florida residents that are 60 years old and older and taking for-credit classes.
Through the Senior Citizens Higher Education Act of 1974, Virginia residents 60 years old and older can take college courses for credit at no cost. The person must have an annual income of $23,850 or less to qualify. However, if the person is mostly retired at the time and taking courses, falling into that income range shouldn’t be difficult.
In Alabama, the Senior Adult Scholarship Program enables seniors 60 years old and older to attend two-year colleges for free. More than likely, this involves junior colleges, community colleges, or perhaps vocational/technical schools.
Arkansas is another state that eliminates tuition and fees for senior citizens 60 years old and older at community colleges and state-supported colleges.
Residents of California that are 60 years old or older can have their tuition waived at all state-supported colleges. California takes it one step further by eliminating application and activity fees so seniors can enjoy the school’s gym and other health facilities.
Again, these are just a sampling of scholarships, grants, and state-waived tuition fees. Check within your state what college scholarships for senior citizens they offer and consider moving forward.
Going for a scholarship can be intimidating at an older age. There are actually free college courses out there just for seniors that can help get your feet wet before you dive in.