The many reasons for returning to college can closely match the number of career paths available to college degree seekers at any age. Whether you want to finish a degree that you started years ago or explore new opportunities that a degree can offer, you'll find yourself in good company with others going back to college at 50. 

Indeed, more than 600,000 students aged 50 and above were enrolled in secondary educational courses in 2019, according to the National Center for Educational Statistics. 

Leap into an exciting phase of your life and embrace learning with these best tips and advice for going back to college at 50.

Incorporate a Wealth of Experience 

Consider the time you've spent over the last twenty years as a dress rehearsal for what you are about to embark on. Even if you will be pursuing a different career path, there are valuable insights and knowledge that you can bring to the classroom and your fellow colleagues. 

For example, if you are pursuing a degree in nursing but previously worked in the hospitality industry, you bring years of customer service skills to your new career. Working with the public has prepared you for dealing with complex issues. Share your experience and challenging scenarios with your class. Your wealth of experience is a learning tool for others.

Choose the Right Path

Do your homework before you enroll in college and consider which college degree will be needed for your career. You might also want to take self-assessment tests that identify your strengths and match you to career paths most suited to your personality. You'll have a better idea of what college degree you should be focused on when you choose a program that aligns with your accumulated skills and interests. 

Financial Considerations for the Mid-Career Student

If you don't have funds set aside for your tuition costs, you'll want to consider applying for financial aid, scholarships, or grants. Be sure to complete your FAFSA several weeks or months before classes start. The federal application is free and can provide several options for paying college costs. 

College may seem overwhelmingly expensive if you are starting over at 50 with no degree but don't despair. Do you have retirement savings? Some retirement plans offer tax advantages for educational expenses, and you can borrow from your IRA or 401K without penalties for higher education expenses. 

If you are wondering how to keep contributing to your retirement with the addition of college expenses, consider establishing a fixed amount that can be deducted from your payroll each week. It may help your budget and will still keep you on track for contributions.

Navigate Personal and Academic Responsibilities

Perhaps one of the most difficult aspects of college after 50 is finding enough time in the day to do everything you want and need to do. You'll have to juggle responsibilities you are already handling while balancing the demands of your class requirements, but you'll discover that you can manage more than you think you can when you stay organized and adhere to a schedule. 

To balance work and school, you'll want to prioritize tasks and personal commitments. Creating a daily schedule with study time is also crucial for success. Add more time to your day by considering flexible work hours or part-time work. In addition, you may benefit from time management tools such as daily planning apps to help keep you on task. 

Adapt and Transform Yourself with Modern Learning Tools

Going back to college at 50 doesn't have to be overwhelming when it comes to learning new technology tools. However, some may find it challenging if they aren't computer savvy. Indeed, college classrooms today look and feel quite different from thirty years ago. 

Many of your classes will likely be web-based instruction. With that in mind, you'll want to familiarize yourself with the various platforms that may be used and you'll need a laptop/desktop that's operating with Windows 10 or newer for compatibility with most online class software programs.

There are dozens of tutorial videos available on YouTube that you can watch for free. Check out workshops that your institution or local community college may also offer.

Don't be afraid to ask your fellow students for help. Younger students often have the advantage of knowing how to use technology. Take advantage of the opportunity to be mentored by a younger student for your technological needs and make a fun friend in the process!

Build and Utilize a Mature Student Network

You'll feel comfortable and inspired when you build a circle of mutual friends with the same end goal in mind. Take the opportunity to connect with other mature students you meet at the college library or in your class. You might also search campus community boards for information about clubs of interest or study groups. Networking with a mature student network can also lead to career opportunities or referrals for business. 

Maintain Your Health and Well-Being

Schedule time to rest and relax each week and log it in your calendar. Pick an activity you enjoy, such as bowling with friends or dining out at least once a week. You may also want to schedule a daily power nap to refresh and rejuvenate. The demands of college life will require you to be good to yourself by eating right, getting enough sleep, and taking time for a 20-minute walk or other type of exercise.

Focus on the Future

Stay focused on your future by knowing that your goals are within reach! Highlight your achievements by keeping a journal of your progress. Celebrate when you ace a test or complete a semester. 

As you advance in your curriculum, consider new goals each semester and adjust your schedule accordingly to meet the demands of new classes and projects. When you move into senior status, you'll want to begin job hunting and preparing your resume to reflect your new degree and/or credentials. 

College at 50

Feel confident about your decision to go back to college after 50 and start planning your future today. I earned my master's degree as an older adult and parent of two young children. Connecting with mature students helped me stay motivated, and nothing beats new friends with mutual goals! 

It's your time, so go ahead and create your personalized degree plan here.