Thinking about going back to school after 50? You’re in good company—and you’ve got more options than you think. Whether you’re pursuing a new career, finishing a degree you started years ago, or simply feeding your curiosity, you can still qualify for financial aid in 2025. And yes, that includes the FAFSA.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get the financial support you deserve—because it’s never too late to learn.
Why Financial Aid Is Still Available After 50
Contrary to popular belief, there’s no age limit for federal student aid. In fact, many adult learners over 50 qualify for grants, low-interest loans, and work-study programs—often without needing to compete with younger students.
Common reasons adults return to school:
- Career change or job retraining
- Personal growth or lifelong learning
- Starting a second act after retirement
- Increased financial stability from advanced degrees or certifications
Bottom line: If you’re enrolled in an eligible program at an accredited school, you can apply for financial aid just like anyone else.
Step 1: Know What You Qualify For
Understanding what types of aid are available helps you plan better.
Federal Aid
- Pell Grants (need-based and don’t have to be repaid)
- Federal Direct Loans (low-interest, with flexible repayment)
- Work-Study Programs (on-campus or part-time jobs)
State & Institutional Aid
- Many state programs extend aid to adult learners
- Some colleges offer specific scholarships for students over 50
Private Scholarships
Search for:
- “Returning student scholarships”
- “Nontraditional student aid”
- Programs for veterans, caregivers, or displaced workers
Step 2: Gather Your Financial Documents
To apply for aid in 2025, you’ll need tax and income information from 2023.
Have these on hand:
- Your Social Security number
- 2023 federal tax return (1040)
- W-2s or 1099s
- Records of untaxed income (disability, child support, etc.)
- Bank account and investment statements (excluding retirement accounts)
- If married, your spouse’s information
Step 3: Create Your FSA ID
Before you can file the FAFSA, you’ll need an FSA ID—your personal login for all federal student aid platforms.
Visit studentaid.gov to create yours.
It only takes a few minutes, but you may need to wait a few days for verification.
Tip: Use an email you check often—this is how schools will contact you.
Step 4: File Your FAFSA (Yes, You Can!)
FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It’s required for most federal, state, and school-based aid.
Go to FAFSA.gov and follow the instructions. Choose the correct academic year—if you’re planning to attend in Fall 2025, you’ll file the 2025–2026 FAFSA.
Key FAFSA facts for students over 50:
- You’re considered independent, so no parental income is required.
- Social Security income may need to be reported but often has minimal impact.
- You can apply even if you already have a degree (especially for grad or certificate programs).
Step 5: Review Your Student Aid Report (SAR)
After submitting the FAFSA, you’ll get your Student Aid Report (SAR). This includes your Expected Family Contribution (EFC)—soon to be renamed the Student Aid Index (SAI)—which schools use to calculate how much aid you can receive.
Don’t skip this: Check the SAR for any errors and make corrections quickly if needed.
Step 6: Connect with Your School’s Financial Aid Office
Your chosen schools will receive your FAFSA information and create a financial aid package based on your eligibility.
If you haven’t applied yet, it’s still okay to list the schools you’re considering—you can update the list later.
Ask about:
- Additional scholarships for adult learners
- Flexible payment plans
- Part-time or online program options
FAQs About Financial Aid After 50
Is it worth taking out loans at my age?
It depends on your goals. If the education will help you increase income, qualify for new opportunities, or fulfill a meaningful goal, a low-interest federal loan might be worth it. Just borrow wisely.
Will my retirement savings affect my FAFSA?
No. Your 401(k), IRA, or pension funds are not considered assets on the FAFSA. However, distributions from those accounts may count as income.
Can I get aid for non-degree programs?
Yes—if the program is at an eligible institution and qualifies for aid. Many certificate and vocational programs are covered.
Final Thoughts: It’s Never Too Late to Learn
Back-to-school doesn’t have an expiration date. In fact, many adult students find that returning to school after 50 is one of the most rewarding decisions they’ve made.
So what’s your next move?
Start by visiting studentaid.gov, creating your FSA ID, and completing the FAFSA. You’ve got the life experience, the motivation—and now, the path forward.
What would you go back to school for, if money wasn’t an obstacle?