I am an Adult Learner

Adult learners are known by a wide variety of names, including non-traditional students, adult students, returning adults, life-long learners, mature learners and many more. Such students have a wide variety of cultural and educational backgrounds, abilities, responsibilities and experiences.

No matter how different adult learners are, there are several defining characteristics that many of them share. When defining adult learners:

• They are usually 25 or older.
• They have delayed entering college for at least one year following high school.
• They are usually employed full-time.
• Often, they have a family to support.
• They are looking to enhance their professional lives or may be switching careers.
• They have more experience than traditional students, having already started a career or served in the military

In addition to these shared traits, many adult learners also share common concerns and challenges that may be holding them back from pursuing the next step toward their educational goals:

• They must balance a busy schedule that includes work, school and family responsibilities.
• They may feel anxiety about going back to school.
• They may be on a tighter budget than traditional students.
• Because they usually commute, they need the flexibility to take classes on campus or online.

In addition to federal financial aid opportunities and programs specific to each institution, Oregon residents, regardless of age, may be eligible for the following state financial aid programs, as long as they meet all other program requirements:

FAFSA or ORSAA

File your FAFSA or ORSAA

Oregon Opportunity Grant

The Oregon Opportunity Grant (OOG) is Oregon's largest state-funded, need-based grant program for college students. The grant provides funding to more than 30,000 Oregon resident students each year.

OOG is a need-based grant awarded to Oregon residents of all ages who are pursuing their first associate's or bachelor's degree at an eligible public or private institution. Award amounts vary based on student's financial need and type of institution the student attends. There is not a separate application for the OOG. To be considered for the grant, students must submit their FAFSA or ORSAA by the deadline date each academic year.

Oregon Promise Grant

The Oregon Promise is a state grant that helps to cover tuition costs at any Oregon community college for recent high school graduates and GED® test graduates. Students must apply during their senior year or immediately after GED® test completion.

Oregon National Guard State Tuition Assistance

The Oregon National Guard State Tuition Assistance (ONGSTA) program provides funding for undergraduate tuition at in-state residency rates, certain fees, and a book allowance at eligible Oregon postsecondary institutions for current Oregon National Guard Members.

Student Child Care Grant

The Oregon Student Child Care Grant Program helps parents enrolled in postsecondary education to obtain safe, dependable care that supports their children's development while allowing completion of the parent's academic programs.

OSAC Scholarships

The OSAC Scholarship is one application that includes more than 600 scholarships. The Scholarship Application includes student contact and background questions, college plans, transcripts, activities chart, and personal statements.

Other Grants

Use the link below to learn more about other Oregon Grant Programs.

Other Workforce and Training Resources

Transfer Degree Information:

If you have already completed an associate’s degree, certificate, or some college, here are tools for transfer students.

Skills and Training Resources:

For information on how to build upon your current skills, including GED® resources, apprenticeships and training opportunities, career pathways, veteran resources, dislocated worker programs, workforce needs and more, please visit the Higher Education Coordinating Commission’s “build skills and training” webpage.

Workforce Development Resources:

For additional resources on workforce, visit:

• WorkSource Oregon
• Local Workforce Development Boards
• Eligible Training Provider List

Veterans Resources:

For information concerning the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Education Benefits (GI Bill®) visit:

US Department of Veterans Affairs Education Programs

All Oregon college and universities have an array of programs for adult learners and value student success. For information on all Oregon colleges and schools, visit this link below:

Oregon's Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) office has a Student Loan Ombuds to assist Oregonians who need help with their student loan servicer. 

If you currently have student loans, and need assistance, please contact the Student Loan Ombuds. Their website includes your rights as a student loan borrower and FAQs.