It's Never Too Late to Get the College Degree You Deserve

It's never too late to go back to school. Regardless of your age, you can still earn a college degree.

My father, who had previously been a college drop-out in his teens, went back to school at the ripe age of 55 and finally attained his bachelor's degree.

It was one of the proudest days of his life.

Going to college costs a lot of money but this shouldn't stop you from trying again!

You are also entitled to all the student loans for college students. To help you prepare, here are some things you should consider doing.

Evaluate yourself

You need to determine the course you want to pursue based on your interests and the future job you have in mind. Most adults go back to school because they want to have better jobs after they graduate. Make sure that the program you'll be enrolling in will lead to the job you're aspiring for. Do not veer away from your passions because taking a course that doesn't interest you will wear you down in the long run.

Look for a school

In looking for a school, take into foremost consideration if it offers programs accredited by the U.S. Department of Education. The department does not accredit schools but education programs.

Only accredited programs are eligible for the federal student aid. Compare tuition fees of different schools and look for the school that's more affordable for you. Consider the retention and graduation rates of the schools as well. Ask if they have job placements after graduation, too.

Learn about the costs and aids

There are many financial aids available for incoming college students. You can apply for scholarships and grants which do not require repayment. You can also opt for work-study which is a part-time program so that you can earn money while studying. You can also avail of federal loans or private student loans for your cost of attendance (i.e. tuition fees, room and food expenses, transportation, and other expenses).

Applying for loans

To apply for a federal loan, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You also need your social security number and driver's license. The other supporting documents you need are W-2 forms or other proof of income and federal income tax return. If you're married, you can also include your spouse's income documents.

It will also be helpful if you declare records of other untaxed income you received, such as welfare benefits, TANF, veteran's benefits, military or clergy allowances, and social security benefits.

While in college

You need to maintain satisfactory academic progress to remain eligible to your financial aid. To help you in your expenses, you can also apply for part-time jobs that fit your schedule. Consult with financial advisors should you encounter difficulty in paying your loans.

Do not let age hinder you from going to college. There are people who can assist you from the time you enroll up to the time you graduate. It's never too late to achieve your dreams. With a college degree you have greater chances of getting a better job and providing a brighter future for you and your family.

For more information on student loans for adults, visit http://studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/index.jsp.