Back-To-School Season for Seniors?

It’s back-to-school season — but not just for kids. Older adults can get in on the learning opportunities as well! From cooking classes to one-off computer tutoring to full-fledged college courses, fall is the perfect time for seniors to explore their interests and learn new skills. If a traditional or virtual classroom is your cup of tea, consider these options for pushing your education horizons:

• Residents 60 and older who meet certain requirements can use tuition waivers to take for-credit courses for free at many state universities and colleges.
  
  
• Even if you can’t take a desired course for credit, you may be able to audit a class without paying. It’s the knowledge that counts, after all.
  
  
• Massive Open Online Courses, or MOOCs, offer many options for online learners from institutions across the country — often, for free. Check out Coursera, edX and Udacity for a taste of what’s available.
  
  
• Don’t dismiss grants and scholarships. The FAFSA isn’t just for 17-year-old college freshmen! Plus, there are many grants and scholarships available specifically for adult learners.
  
  
• Be sure to take advantage of federal tax breaks for college tuition, fees and supplies. Publication 970 from the IRS outlines the details of educational tax breaks, income requirements and other conditions.

Have you explored higher education as an older adult? Reply to tell us about your experience! We’d love to hear your tips for success.