Janice Lozano
Scholarships are a great way to fund your education, and many are available for part-time students. Some scholarships require full-time attendance to qualify, but there are still plenty of options for those who are studying part-time. Scholarships for adult students, for example, usually accept both part-time and full-time applicants, recognising the financial obligations that mature students often have. Graduate school scholarships also often cater to part-time students, and if you're a parent, there are scholarships specifically for mothers and fathers. So, if you're a part-time student, don't let the idea of funding discourage you – there are plenty of scholarship opportunities to explore.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Graduate school scholarships | Some require full-time attendance, but many accept part-time students |
| Adult scholarships | Many accept part-time students |
| Employer scholarships | Some employers provide tuition assistance even if you're a part-time employee |
| Tax implications | Any award payment received may have tax implications |
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What You'll Learn
Part-time graduate scholarships
Scholarships are a great way to fund your graduate studies, and many are available for part-time students. While some scholarships require full-time attendance, many others accept part-time students. Graduate students often opt for part-time study to continue working and reduce the need for loans.
Sources of Scholarships
Employers
Many employers offer tuition reimbursement, especially if your degree is relevant to your job. Some employers may require you to maintain a certain GPA or work for the company for a specified period. It is worth checking with your HR department about such opportunities.
Federal Aid
Graduate students can benefit from federal aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is the only way to receive federal student loans, which are more favourable than private loans. Graduate students are also eligible for Federal Work-Study benefits, providing part-time employment while enrolled.
Adult Scholarships
Adult scholarships are another option, and many accept part-time students. These scholarships are designed for students with more financial obligations, helping cover tuition and living expenses. Examples include the Downer-Bennett scholarship and the Women With Promise Scholarship.
State Grants
State and federal grants are excellent sources of financial aid, and graduate students in certain states may still be eligible. For instance, the Hopi Tribe Grants and Scholarship Program assists students pursuing postsecondary and professional degrees at part-time status.
Graduate Scholarships
There are also scholarships specifically for graduate students, such as the William & Mary School of Education Award for Excellence, which recognises outstanding students in education. The Marilyn Chesher Lynch Scholarship is another example, awarded to alumna members of the Fraternity pursuing a graduate degree.
In summary, part-time graduate students have various scholarship options to support their studies. These include employer tuition reimbursement, federal aid, adult scholarships, state grants, and graduate-specific scholarships. It is beneficial to explore these opportunities to secure financial assistance and focus on your academic pursuits.
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Federal student loans
Scholarships can be an excellent way to fund your education as a part-time student. Many scholarships accept part-time students and some are specifically geared towards them. These scholarships can help cover tuition, living expenses, and more. Graduate students, for instance, can benefit from scholarships that do not require full-time attendance. Additionally, adult scholarships usually cater to both part-time and full-time students, providing flexibility for those with other commitments. Some scholarships are also tailored for specific groups, such as single parents or certain racial demographics.
However, if you cannot find sufficient scholarship funding as a part-time student, federal student loans are a dependable financing option. These loans are provided directly by the US government to eligible students or their parents/guardians to cover the cost of higher education. Federal loans offer distinct advantages over private student loans and should be explored first. Here are some key points about federal student loans:
Direct Subsidized Loans
Direct Subsidized Loans are available to undergraduate students who can demonstrate financial need as determined by federal regulations. There is no interest charged while the student is in school at least half-time, during deferment, or during the grace period before repayment begins.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available to both undergraduate and graduate/professional degree students, regardless of financial need. Interest is charged during all periods, and the amount borrowed is based on the cost of attendance and other financial aid received.
Direct PLUS Loans
Direct PLUS Loans are unsubsidized federal loans for parents of dependent students and graduate/professional students. They can cover education expenses up to the cost of attendance after other financial aid has been applied. Eligibility requires a credit check, and borrowers with adverse credit history must meet additional requirements. Interest is charged during all periods and may increase the total loan cost.
Benefits of Federal Student Loans
In summary, scholarships can be a great option for part-time students, but federal student loans provide a reliable alternative if scholarship funding is insufficient. Federal loans offer unique benefits, such as subsidized interest, flexible repayment options, and additional work-study opportunities. By exploring these options, part-time students can secure the financial assistance they need to pursue their educational goals.
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Employer tuition reimbursement
Tuition reimbursement, also known as tuition assistance, is a benefit offered by some employers to help their employees cover the cost of their education. This can include paying for undergraduate or graduate-level courses, books, equipment, supplies, fees, and even student loan debt. Many employers see tuition reimbursement as a valuable tool for attracting and retaining talented employees.
In 2022, approximately 48% of employers offered tuition assistance as a benefit, and this number is expected to grow as organizations recognize the positive impact of these programs on their businesses. While specific program policies differ, there are some common features. For example, tuition reimbursement programs often have eligibility requirements related to both the employee and the coursework. Employees may be required to maintain a certain GPA or earn specific grades to qualify for reimbursement. Additionally, employers may only offer reimbursement for courses or degrees relevant to the employee's current job or career track.
It's important to note that tuition reimbursement programs typically don't cover the entire cost of a degree program, and there may be limits on the annual reimbursement amount per employee. Some employers may also require employees to work for a certain period after receiving tuition reimbursement, and failing to do so may result in repaying some or all of the reimbursed costs.
When considering tuition reimbursement, it's essential to review the program details and understand any requirements or limitations. Speaking with your HR department is a good first step to explore your options and determine if your employer offers tuition reimbursement.
- Amazon: Covers tuition and fees for front-line employees after 90 days of employment.
- Apple: Offers the Apple Education Reimbursement program with up to $5,250 in educational assistance.
- AT&T: Provides tuition assistance of up to $5,250 per year for part-time and full-time employees who have worked at least six months.
- Bank of America: Offers up to $5,250 in job-related college courses or degree programs for part-time and full-time employees working at least six months.
- Chipotle: Contributes up to $5,250 annually to help employees cover the costs of a college degree, earning a GED, or studying English as a second language.
- FedEx: Provides up to $5,250 annually for employees pursuing a college degree or attending trade, vocational, or technical school.
- GEICO: Offers tuition reimbursement of up to $5,250 per year for full-time employees enrolled in undergraduate education at an accredited college.
- Home Depot: Salaried employees can receive up to $5,000 in tuition reimbursement annually, while part-time employees are eligible for up to $1,500.
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Scholarships for adult students
Scholarships can help part-time students cover the cost of tuition, living expenses, and more. Scholarships for adult students are generally offered exclusively for "non-traditional" or "independent" students who are not currently enrolled and are considerably older than the typical 18–22-year-old undergraduate. Many adult scholarships have no age restrictions and accept both part-time and full-time students, allowing for the flexibility that adult students often need.
Adult students can access the same federal grants, loans, and work-study programs as traditional students. Scholarships and grants can significantly reduce the costs of returning to school, lowering overall student loan debt. This financial relief is especially beneficial for adult students, who often have more financial obligations than freshmen.
- Downer-Bennett Scholarship: This scholarship is for single-parent students attending the University of New Mexico main campus. Applicants must be continuing undergraduate students, have a highly competitive cumulative GPA, and earn 12 credits each semester.
- Women With Promise Scholarship: This scholarship is for female students who are either new or returning to college and are from or attending school in Dallas and Collin counties in Texas. Both part-time and full-time students are eligible. This scholarship is worth $5,000.
- Executive Women International Scholarship Program: This scholarship offers the EWISP Scholarship and the ASIST Scholarship, both of which support non-traditional adult students pursuing a certificate, associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree.
- Love My Phoebe, Inc.: This scholarship supports BIPOC female students over the age of 30 who are pursuing higher education.
- College JumpStart Scholarship: This annual, merit-based competition is open to non-traditional students. Adult learners who are committed to education and can express their goals for pursuing higher education can apply. The first-place prize is a $1,000 scholarship that can be used at any college or university in the United States.
- Courage to Grow Scholarship: This monthly scholarship program awards $500 to one student per month. Applicants must be US citizens with a minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher.
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State and federal grants
Part-time students can also receive scholarships, although some scholarships require full-time attendance to qualify. Scholarships for adult students, for example, usually have no age restrictions and accept both part-time and full-time students, providing much-needed flexibility. Graduate or doctoral students can also find adult scholarships, although these are usually aimed at undergraduates.
Some scholarships are geared towards specific groups, such as parents or single parents. For example, the Women With Promise Scholarship is for female students from or attending school in certain counties in Texas, and the Downer-Bennett scholarship is for single-parent students at the University of New Mexico. There are also scholarships for specific racial or ethnic demographics, as well as need-based components for low-income brackets.
Students with young children can benefit from grants such as the Minnesota Post-Secondary Child Care Grant Program, which helps low-income students pay for childcare while they attend classes.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, many scholarships accept part-time students. Some scholarships require full-time attendance, but there are still plenty of options for part-time students.
Scholarships for part-time students include the Women With Promise Scholarship, which is for female students from or attending school in Texas, and the Downer-Bennett scholarship, which is for single parents attending the University of New Mexico main campus.
You can search for scholarships that fit your unique characteristics, such as your gender, race, or income bracket. You can also look for scholarships for adult students, which usually have no age restrictions and accept part-time students. Websites like Scholarships.com allow you to create an account and be notified of scholarships that match your profile.
Yes, part-time students can qualify for federal student loans. Additionally, if you are working while studying, your employer may offer scholarships or tuition reimbursement, especially if your degree is relevant to your job.
