Tips on Going Back to College After Dropping Out

Not every student can easily start and finish their studying in college without any mistakes, difficulties, or wrong decisions. Some students do regret their choice to leave college due to many reasons. And while some don’t go back, living their lives, some ex-students go back to finish their education. This blog post will help you adjust to a new life in college after a long break.

Is It Possible?

Some people wonder if there is an opportunity to go back to their former college after dropping out. And the answer is YES. It’s absolutely possible to return to the same college that you were attending or choose a new one and transfer your credit. You will also likely have more options compared to younger students, for example, a more flexible schedule or online education options, so you might not even need to leave your job.

To everyone, who is still not sure if they would like to return and complete their education, we would suggest just checking if there are specific rules and programs in the college that you would like to go to. There are multiple reasons why you might have chosen to drop out but there are also plenty of them to return and graduate properly. Why not take a chance?

You should also understand that attending college as an adult with some life and job experience is not the same as being a young and overwhelmed student. Your college experience now can be much better than you remember it to be. You will also be starting with some knowledge and great info base on what you should do and how. This is a perfect option for everyone who regrets their decision of not finishing their education in college.

So, here are a few tips on how to go back to college and make the most out of it.

Tip #1: Maximize Your College Credits

There are a few options for you if you wouldn’t like to start all over from scratch. For example, if you choose a new college that you have never attended, chances are they will transfer your previous college credits if they check your history. Make sure to ask questions about whether they accept those credits and if there are other options, for example, giving you credits for work experience. Not every college does this and it all depends on the sphere of your job, but you never know until you try.

Another option is to take an exam and get some extra credit for that. Such exams CLEP can boost you in getting essential college credits without taking a full course. You will need to prepare for it of course, but it might save you a lot of time. 

Don’t be scared to talk to college representatives, committee members, or college advisors to understand what options you have as a person who would like to apply after a long break. Colleges are usually very helpful towards people in such situations.

Tip #2: Check Out Financial Aid Options

While studying in college is not cheap, you might find a lot of options on how to make it easier for you to afford education. 

Some employers can provide financial help and programs for their employees who would like to complete their education. Check out if your current workplace is one of that kind. Another option is to check if there are any scholarships, grants, student programs that you can qualify for. The situation changes all the time, and if you were not getting this option when you were entering college back then, it doesn’t mean that these options are also unavailable now.

Also, make sure to check the status of your student loan if you had any in the past. You might want to restructure your debt or find new alternatives.

Tip #3: Remember – Motivation Is the Key

When going back to college, it’s crucial to remember why you are doing that. Maybe you would like to have a promotion at your work which is impossible without a college degree. Or maybe you would like to close this chapter in your life and fulfill your dream. Not every college student who drops out does it because they would like to. Some have to do it because of various circumstances or financial reasons and continue their education when they have a more stable position in life.

So, remember and keep reminding yourself why you do this. There is nothing more powerful than the power of motivation. If you ever feel like you get lost or don’t know if you are that interested in the current course or task, feel free to talk to someone about it but make sure you understand that your goal is what made you return. And it’s not the time to give up.