Options for going back to school

But how? You have adult responsibilities – a job, a family. You can’t just put everything on hold while you “re-do” your education.

First of all, don’t think of it as starting over, but rather as refocusing.

The years spent in the workforce were not a waste. Speak to an academic advisor about how that experience can be turned into college credit. Be sure to mention any additional expertise you have that may allow you to test out of classes or coursework.

Secondly, you will not need to completely disrupt your life to go back to school. Consider enrolling in an online degree program, which will allow you to fit college around your existing commitments. Oftentimes online courses are accelerated, so you’ll be able to finish faster, and it will cost less than attending on-campus classes.

Cost is often a factor in returning to college. Start out by completing the FAFSA, which will identify which grants and loans you’re eligible for. The federal student loans offered to you will have lower interest rates and more flexible payment plans than alternative loans.