going to grad school after age 50

[ka16325833]

Anyone else out there thinking this is the beginning, not the end? I'm researching grad school and dreaming about a new and fulfilling encore career. I'd like to hear your experiences. Did you do an in-person or an online program? Were you accepted by the other students even though you were older? What were the rewards and the challenges?

[CBtoo]

The original post is pretty old but as a retire faculty member I have some general comments. Also reading this thread I noticed a number used online only. Depending on the field you are going into and whether or not you went to a for profit school that may seriously impact your ability to find a good job.

I am going to start with: be VERY careful about online for profit schools. They are very expensive aren't viewed as very credible by a number of employers and in fields that expect you to have in person lab sessions (like in the sciences) or in nursing (if there is no actual hospital rotations), etc. An in person program has far more credibility, you then have more people in your network (needed for references, jobs amongst other things) and often financial aid (assistantships if it is a PhD program) are available that significantly bring down the costs. Also be sure the program has the "right" regional accreditation (regional is far more respected than national accreditation).

Be VERY careful with school loans. The new loan rules mean you could be (if you don't use the public service 10 year and be discharged option) paying them for 30 years before any balance is written off (the new rules under Trump). Then whatever is written off is taxable as ordinary income (unless you are part of the public service program, the teach program, etc,). 

You need to figure out what your new career would pay and figure out if you can afford the loan payments once you are retired. 

Learning things you are interested in is fun (but can be hard work), just like with undergrad you will be forced to take classes you may not want to take. You may really enjoy your next career (I have had 3 major careers, the final one as a faculty member).

Some masters programs have a thesis route you need to do at the end, others have comprehensive exams that cover most of the courses you have taken through out your program. If this matters to you find out which exit route a program has,

If you go for a PhD online those aren't very credible and you have to pay for the entire thing, Face to face most PhD students are awarded an assistantship which pays some/all of the tuition and a stipend. You'll borrow far less. You will have both comprehensive exams and a dissertation to write. 

With both masters and PhD's (or EDD's) the reputation of the program you enroll in affects your employability (and your advisor often has a great deal of influence on you finding a job).

For the credible programs you will be required to take a standardized test (for many programs it is the GRE, for business the G-MAT, etc. It is worth studying for them. They are achievement tests, often with information you haven't through about in decades. As a result studying will bring up your score. Where you get in depends, partly, on your score. Getting assistantships on the masters level depends on your score. Your score matters. Schools that don't require a standardized test for entrance usually are if you are breathing and can pay for it we will admit you.

Depending on what you want to do when you get out (Master's programs full time are usually 2 years and PhD's 4-6 depending on the field) you may be up against significant age discrimination. 

So think through these issues and choose carefully because on the graduate level it matters far more than on the undergrad level (well - for profit is never a good choice for a college degree unless all you need is the degree for the promotion for where you already work - for most companies they care far less since they already want to promote you and all you need is your piece of paper - this advice isn't for you since that is not what you are doing, rather for others who are reading this thread).

[Fall2025VA]

[10/17/25] Yes @CBtoo , the top post is very old but we have had some comments since then.

The LAST comment was April 2025.

Take care,

Nicole. 💛

➡️[*** 

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@CBtoo wrote:

The original post is pretty old but as a retire faculty member I have some general comments. Also reading this thread I noticed a number used online only. Depending on the field you are going into and whether or not you went to a for profit school that may seriously impact your ability to find a good job.

I am going to start with: be VERY careful about online for profit schools. They are very expensive aren't viewed as very credible by a number of employers and in fields that expect you to have in person lab sessions (like in the sciences) or in nursing (if there is no actual hospital rotations), etc. An in person program has far more credibility, you then have more people in your network (needed for references, jobs amongst other things) and often financial aid (assistantships if it is a PhD program) are available that significantly bring down the costs. Also be sure the program has the "right" regional accreditation (regional is far more respected than national accreditation).

Be VERY careful with school loans. The new loan rules mean you could be (if you don't use the public service 10 year and be discharged option) paying them for 30 years before any balance is written off (the new rules under Trump). Then whatever is written off is taxable as ordinary income (unless you are part of the public service program, the teach program, etc,). 

You need to figure out what your new career would pay and figure out if you can afford the loan payments once you are retired. 

Learning things you are interested in is fun (but can be hard work), just like with undergrad you will be forced to take classes you may not want to take. You may really enjoy your next career (I have had 3 major careers, the final one as a faculty member).

Some masters programs have a thesis route you need to do at the end, others have comprehensive exams that cover most of the courses you have taken through out your program. If this matters to you find out which exit route a program has,

If you go for a PhD online those aren't very credible and you have to pay for the entire thing, Face to face most PhD students are awarded an assistantship which pays some/all of the tuition and a stipend. You'll borrow far less. You will have both comprehensive exams and a dissertation to write. 

With both masters and PhD's (or EDD's) the reputation of the program you enroll in affects your employability (and your advisor often has a great deal of influence on you finding a job).

For the credible programs you will be required to take a standardized test (for many programs it is the GRE, for business the G-MAT, etc. It is worth studying for them. They are achievement tests, often with information you haven't through about in decades. As a result studying will bring up your score. Where you get in depends, partly, on your score. Getting assistantships on the masters level depends on your score. Your score matters. Schools that don't require a standardized test for entrance usually are if you are breathing and can pay for it we will admit you.

Depending on what you want to do when you get out (Master's programs full time are usually 2 years and PhD's 4-6 depending on the field) you may be up against significant age discrimination. 

So think through these issues and choose carefully because on the graduate level it matters far more than on the undergrad level (well - for profit is never a good choice for a college degree unless all you need is the degree for the promotion for where you already work - for most companies they care far less since they already want to promote you and all you need is your piece of paper - this advice isn't for you since that is not what you are doing, rather for others who are reading this thread).

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[OliverB28554]

Yes. I turned 50 in 2024 and am about to earn my M.A. in Nonprofit Management. It was an online program that made it flexible as I continued my full-time job. Both traditional and non-traditional students accepted me. My years of experience truly helped with discussions, projects and assignments. The reward is earning a degree that I hope will be put to use during my second career. I'd say, go for it. Leisurely learning can be fun. Plus, check out some schools that may offer free tuition for students aged 50+. 

[Fall2025VA]

Congrats Oliver @OliverB28554 !!! Take care, Nicole  👵  (Retirement Forum)

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➡️[*** Oliver wrote on Wednesday 4/30/25: Yes. I turned 50 in 2024 and am about to earn my M.A. in Nonprofit Management. It was an online program that made it flexible as I continued my full-time job. Both traditional and non-traditional students accepted me. My years of experience truly helped with discussions, projects and assignments. The reward is earning a degree that I hope will be put to use during my second career. I'd say, go for it. Leisurely learning can be fun. Plus, check out some schools that may offer free tuition for students aged 50+. ***]

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[Fall2025VA]

[Sunday 4/6/25]

Anyone age 50+ in school?  🤔

Take care,

Nicole  👵  (Retirement Forum)

[MisterGee67]

I just turned 58 this month, and I am about halfway through my master's in human development and counseling. I started in May of 2024, unsure and very nervous, but it's by far one of the best decisions I've ever made.  

[Fall2025VA]

GOOD for you @MisterGee67 !!! Take care, Nicole  👵  (Retirement Forum)

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[*** @MisterGee67 wrote 4/13/25:

I just turned 58 this month, and I am about halfway through my master's in human development and counseling. I started in May of 2024, unsure and very nervous, but it's by far one of the best decisions I've ever made. ***]

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[JoyceS920349]

Yes. Grad school. I am 69

[Fall2025VA]

[Monday 4/7/25]

That is AWESOME Joyce @JoyceS920349 !!!  👍

What are you studying and when do you finish? NO pressure to answer.

Take care,

Nicole  👵  (Retirement Forum)

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[*** @JoyceS920349 wrote 4/6/25:

Yes. Grad school. I am 69. ***]

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[Fall2025VA]

[2/22/25] Traci @TraciT67764 , I am 67 this year 2025 and remember when there were LOTS of scholarships for ADULTS OF ALL AGES. I know here in Virginia colleges/universities are CLOSING over the years due to various financial reasons. But here is some online info I just ran across. Good Luck!!! Nicole 👵

📋 13 Scholarships And Grants For Adults Going Back to School for 2025 | Research.com.

FROM THE ARTICLE: Is there an age limit for receiving federal student aid? No, there's no age limit. Almost everyone is eligible for some type of federal student aid. The adult student still needs to complete the FAFSA form, and make sure not to miss any deadlines, just like any other student.

➡️ FROM GOOGLE: People also ask.

➡️ Can I get financial aid at 50 years old?

There are no age restrictions for federal aid. Adult students can access the same federal grants, loans, and work-study programs as traditional students.

📋 13 Scholarships and Grants for Returning Students for 2025.

Scholarships and grants are a vital resource for reducing college costs. They are available for all types of students, including returning ones. Our experts compiled a list of grants and scholarships for adults to help you get started. Explore additional opportunities based on your background, achievements, and professional goals.

📋 8 Scholarships for Adults Returning to College.

Here are eight scholarships for adults returning to college:

USE LINK BELOW TO GET INFO AND YES LOTS OF ADS BUT MAYBE THE SCHOLARSHIPS MAY HELP YOU AT AGE 50+: https://research.com/student-loans/scholarships-and-grants-for-adults-going-back-to-school#:~:text=T....

[CBtoo]

Just be REALLY careful to factor in the repayments after you graduate. Student loan payments on a reduced income when retired can make your budget really tight unless you have a lot saved for retirement and a higher SS level.

[JoyceS920349]

Seniors can take classes tuition free at many state universities. Just Google it

[SereneSeagull]

Yes!  So true!  

[Fall2025VA]

[10/17/25] Oh my goodness Joyce @JoyceS920349 , so GOOD to hear from you my friend!!! Did you graduate? Take care, Nicole  💛

➡️[*** JOYCE 

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@JoyceS920349 wrote:

Seniors can take classes tuition free at many state universities. Just Google it.

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[JoyceS920349]

Not quite... but nearing the half-way mark! Do we know each other!?

[JoyceS920349]

Seniors can take classes tuition free at many state universities. Just Google it

[OlafM294960]

It’s wonderful to hear you're thinking of pursuing grad school and an encore career! I believe it’s just the beginning too. I went through a similar journey and chose an online program for flexibility, which allowed me to balance work and family life. The age difference did cross my mind, but I was pleasantly surprised by how welcoming and inclusive my peers were, regardless of age. The main challenges were time management and keeping up with the pace, but the rewards—personal growth, a sense of accomplishment, and new career opportunities—made it all worthwhile. Best of luck on your journey!

[Fall2025VA]

[8/10/24] CONGRATS Joyce @JoyceS920349 !!!  💃💃💃

Please keep us posted.

Thanks,

Nicole  👵 (Retirement Forum)

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[JOYCE wrote: You post is 3 years old so I'm not sure if you are still interested, but state universities offer huge discounts/tuition waivers for older adults. I'm starting my M.A. degree studies for $75.00 for up to 12 credits per semester. I'm 67. ***]

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[JoyceS920349]

Here is a link to an inspirational article about folks who went back to school as an older adult

https://www.aarp.org/work/careers/people-who-switched-careers-after-50/

[TraciT67764]

Hi Joyce,

I too am considering going back to school for my MA and I’m 56. I’m curious about any info you can share about the huge tuition discounts you referred to. I’ve been looking into that and only saw discounts if you’re 65 + and it’s to audit available courses rather than work towards a masters degree. Any info you may share would be much appreciated!

thanks,

Traci

[JoyceS920349]

Unfortunately, Florida is one of those states who allow only audit. I sent you a link. Hopefully, that helps!

[NancyM27523]

Maybe I’m not understanding the context of this comment, but why would a person only be allowed to audit? Certainly not due to the student’s age I hope

[JoyceS920349]

If you live in Maryland, students over 60 or 65 (can't remember which age) get full tuition waivers or reduced tuition at all state universities. At University of Maryland, they offer full tuition waiivers (except fees). At Towson U., they have a flat rate of $75 for a certain amount of classes, both undergrad and graduate. https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/free-college-tuition-for-seniors-by-state

[Fall2025VA]

[2/20/25] Traci @TraciT67764 , CONGRATS on your plans!!! Please keep us posted when you can. Nicole👵

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[*** @TraciT67764 wrote:

Hi Joyce,

I too am considering going back to school for my MA and I’m 56. I’m curious about any info you can share about the huge tuition discounts you referred to. I’ve been looking into that and only saw discounts if you’re 65 + and it’s to audit available courses rather than work towards a masters degree. Any info you may share would be much appreciated!

thanks,

Traci ***]

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[JoyceS920349]

If you live in Maryland, students over 60 or 65 (can't remember which age) get full tuition waivers or reduced tuition at all state universities. At University of Maryland, they offer full tuition waiivers (except fees). At Towson U., they have a flat rate of $75 for a certain amount of classes, both undergrad and graduate. https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/free-college-tuition-for-seniors-by-state

[Fall2025VA]

MAY 2024.

1 comment (5/16/24) Hi @LizS378813 , how did your exams go?  🤔  And I bet you you are ENJOYING your Summer Break IF it has started!!!  💃💃💃

Thanks,

Nicole  👵

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[*** LIZ @LizS378813 wrote 4/29/24:

 I took my Contracts Law II exam this morning. I have one more final exam and for my Property class next Monday morning at  9 am. My summer break begins. I will be finished with my first year of law school. I will start my second year in the middle of August. I am glad for the summer vacation. I want enjoy my summer vacation and do lots of fun things like GalaxyCon, which is largest comic book convention in Oklahoma and start on May 24th-26th. I worked hard this semester and want enjoy my time off. ***]

[LizS378813]

  I  believe  I did good on my finals. I am enjoying my vacation now. The comic book convention, Galaxycon is next Saturday. I am looking forward to it. August wiill begin my second year of law school. Law school is hard and won't say that it is not. It is doable. I am glad to have my first year of law finished.

[SuzanneG427647]

I am in Grad school at age 83. Many states allow you y to enter cost free in any program at no cost. You have to apply and be accepted just like anyone. I began in class and with Covid changed to on-line. Both were great. I was accepted and actually the professors appreciated my contributions. After all I was a primary source in a Masters Gerontology program! I loved every minute of class and interaction s!

[NancyM27523]

Thank you, you just inspired me! I’m 65 with a Bachelor’s and had intended to continue with grad studies in Economics, but discovered at age 30 that they actually PAY people to exercise horses, thus I got sidetracked and “wasted” 35 years of my life haha… I still have a desire to go back but haven’t been able to justify it…