Going back to school as an adult can be both personally and professionally rewarding, but it's also a balancing act. Whether you're finishing a degree, switching careers, or learning a new trade, planning your finances well in advance can help you stay focused on your goals. Here's how to budget for college before and during your return to the classroom.
1. Build a “Back-to-School” Budget
Your budget may look a little different as a non-traditional student, especially if you're juggling work, family, and school. Start by reviewing your current income and expenses, then factor in new costs like tuition, fees, supplies, and transportation.
Don’t forget to account for:
- Reduced work hours or income while in school
- Childcare or dependent care
- Technology needs (laptop, software, reliable internet)
- Commuting or parking costs if attending in-person
🎓 Pro Tip: Look for student discounts! Many businesses, from software companies to streaming services, offer reduced rates for students. You can even get discounted rates on Amazon Prime membership, Adobe Creative Cloud, Office 365, and e. Squarespace
2. Explore Flexible Work Options
Juggling work and school isn't easy-but the right job can make it more manageable. Look for positions with flexible hours, remote options, or built-in support for students. Consider:
- Gig work like delivery driving, freelancing, or tutoring
- On-campus jobs (available at most colleges, even for part-time students)
- Employers with tuition reimbursement benefits (check hospitals, government agencies, or larger corporations)
Look for job boards at local campuses, like those at Chemeketa Community College, Linn-Benton Community College, or Western Oregon University, to find jobs that are compatible with a work-study lifestyle.
Real-Life Inspiration: A Nontraditional Path Forward
When we say we support lifelong learning, we mean it! Meet Megan Walter of Silverton, the 2025 recipient of the Maps Nontraditional Student Scholarship. Megan is a mother and active community volunteer who is returning to school to study Psychology at Corban University. As she pursues a master’s degree in counseling, she’s balancing education with work, family, and her passion for helping others.
Her story reflects what the Maps Community Foundation believes at its core: that every student—regardless of age or circumstance—deserves the opportunity to build a better future. In fact, in 2025, the Foundation awarded a record-breaking $70,000 in scholarships to students attending four-year universities, community colleges, and trade schools—including support exclusively for nontraditional learners like Megan.
3. Treat It Like a Family Project
If you have a partner, kids, or other family obligations, college isn't a solo journey. So, bring your whole household together early to discuss the budget and the plan. Set expectations for how your time, energy, availability, and spending habits might change. And, as much as you can, share responsibilities for meal prep, laundry, chores, and errands.
4. Use All Available Support
If you have young children, look into support options like campus childcare. Many Oregon schools, including Oregon State University and the University of Oregon, offer childcare and other services specifically designed for adult learners and student parents. So, don’t hesitate to ask what’s available. You may be eligible for housing, career services, mental health support, and other resources.
Also, take advantage of statewide benefits like Oregon’s SNAP for Students and Oregon Health Plan coverage. Even as a student, you may qualify for assistance, assuming you meet income guidelines and additional criteria.
5. Use Financial Aid Strategically
Yes, adult students can qualify for financial aid. Start with the FAFSA (or the ORSAA if you're undocumented) to access grants, work-study, and federal student loans.
Also explore:
- The Oregon Opportunity Grant (available to many part-time and full-time students)
- Scholarships from the Oregon Community Foundation, especially those for returning or older students
- School-specific awards for adult learners or trade program participants
- A Maps Community Foundation scholarship for nontraditional students (see sidebar).
🎓 Pro Tip: If you do need to borrow, start with federal loans, which typically offer better protections and flexible repayment options than private loans.
Remember: You’re Not Starting Over
No matter your starting point, going back to school as an adult isn't a step backward; it's an investment in your future. From start to finish, it takes guts, grit, and smart planning. When the going gets tough, remind yourself that there are resources to help you find that coveted work-life-study balance.
Advisors, financial aid specialists, and counselors are there to help—and so are we. If you need help creating a budget, exploring student loan options, or planning your next financial move, Maps is here to support your goals. And if you’re returning to school in 2026, don’t forget to check out the Maps Nontraditional Student Scholarship—applications open next year, and it could give your budget a helpful boost.