“Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.” – Anthony J. D’Angelo

Adult & Nontraditional Learners

Start or Restart College with Confidence

Going to college as an adult can open doors to new career opportunities, higher earnings, and personal growth. Whether you want to advance in your current role, change fields, or set an example for your family, now is the right time to invest in yourself. With flexible programs, online options, and financial aid available at any age, college is now more accessible than ever. You already have what it takes to succeed, and going to college can help you reach your goals faster than you may think.

Begin Your Journey

Explore careers, discover programs, and take assessments to discover new opportunities.

Plan for a Career

Complete Your Degree

Finish what you started, transfer previous credits, and move closer to graduation.

Transfer Guides

College Search

Explore NC Colleges and Programs to find the best fit for your goals.

Start Your Search

For Service Members & Veterans

Turn your military training into college credit and access your education benefits.

Education for Military

Smarter, Faster, and More Manageable

Adult Learners have a unique opportunity to save both time and money when returning to college. By applying for NC Residency, you may qualify for In-State tuition and save thousands of dollars. Many institutions also recognize the value of prior work, military service, and life experience through Credit For Prior Learning. You can earn credit for what you already know and shorten your path to completion to reach your goals faster.

Lower Cost of Attendance
Gain Access to State Grants and Scholarships
In-State Tuition

Apply For NC Residency

Accelerated Degree Completion
Reduced Tuition Costs
Includes Military Service

Credit for Prior Learning

Paying for College as an Adult

College is within reach at any age. By completing the FAFSA you can unlock access to federal grants, scholarships, and state aid that make college more affordable. One application takes less than an hour and you will know what you qualify for in 3-5 days. Its that simple!

Apply today and take the first step towards your future.

Step 1: Create a studentaid.gov account.

This will be your username and password to access the financial aid system and electronically sign your FAFSA.

Create An Account

Step 2: Complete a FAFSA

Fill out the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out what grants, scholarships, work study, and low interest loans you may qualify for. The earlier you apply, the more aid opportunities may be available.

Start Your FAFSA

Step 3: Apply for Scholarships

There are scholarships for adults too! Search CFNC.org for state, local, and college-specific scholarships. Scholarships are free money for college that does not need to be paid back.

Scholarship Search

FAFSA Video Resources

How to Create a StudentAid.gov Account

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How to Fill Out the FAFSA Form

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Have a Question? Let Us Help!

Use this interactive map to discover the many financial aid professionals near you. They are available to guide you through the FAFSA process. You do not have to be attending that college to receive free assistance.

Search Now!

Contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center for live chat, phone, and/or email FAFSA assistance. Live support is available at times convenient with your schedule.

Request assistance now

Get Support

You don’t have to figure it out alone. CFNC offers free resources and representatives who are here to help you plan, apply, and pay for college.