Career Change Scholarships

Career Change Scholarships College and Career Planning People change careers for a number of reasons. The three most common reasons career counselors cite that people decide to change jobs include: Involuntary layoff or termination Seeking a larger salary Can't get along with co-workers Incompatible with the boss Major life change (divorce, spouse changes job, etc.) Related Articles Career Change Grants Career Change Grants Career Change Statistics Career Change Statistics Midlife Career Change Midlife Career Change According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers between the ages of 18 and 34 change jobs an average of 10 times. When this change is forced by a termination or layoff, often a worker will simply make a lateral change, and no new skills or training are needed. However, the more common scenario is when a worker desires greater pay or more responsibility. In order to reach that goal, additional education is required. The drawback to going back to school before you change careers is that while you are attending classes, you can't work. Additionally, you will be held responsible for all of the costs that you incur while attending classes, including books, materials, and credits. These costs can add up fast. Unless you already work for an employer that pays for your education, you will need a way to cover those financial responsibilities. This is where career change scholarships can help. Financial Help from Career Change Scholarships Just because you are an adult student returning to school doesn't mean that the process is a whole lot different. Just like all other college students, the first step you should take is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). By submitting your information via the FAFSA, you will receive any federal grants, work-study programs, tuition-assistance programs, or low-interest loans that you qualify for. While this is the first important step, it isn't the only step. While the FAFSA will determine your federal eligibility for these programs, it will not tell you whether you qualify for private or state career change scholarships. Check with Private Sources Every college and university is different. Some offer unique scholarships for students who fit particular profiles. Many times simply filling out an application to attend that particular school will automatically serve as your application for those forms of financial assistance. However, don't assume that this is the case. Check with your the financial aid office at the school you plan to attend. Ask whether they have scholarship programs specifically for "continuing education" students, and how to apply.