Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students: A Complete Guide for 2025/2026

Returning to school as an adult can be a daunting but rewarding experience. Whether you’re changing careers, upgrading your skills, or finally pursuing your passion, a master’s degree can be a powerful step forward. The good news? There are many master’s scholarships for mature students designed specifically to support you.

This guide explores scholarships available for mature and non-traditional students, their eligibility criteria, and how to apply effectively in 2025/2026

Who Are Considered Mature Students?

In most academic contexts, mature students are individuals who start or return to university later in life, typically aged 25 or older. They may have taken a break from education to:

Raise a family
Work full-time
Serve in the military
Pursue other life experiences

Mature students often bring unique perspectives and experiences that enrich the academic community.

Why Pursue a Master’s Degree as a Mature Student?

Pursuing graduate education as an adult can unlock new career paths, provide financial advancement, or fulfill lifelong learning goals. Here are a few reasons mature students choose to pursue a master’s:

Career change or advancement
Increased earning potential
Personal growth and confidence
Developing expertise in a new or current field
Setting an example for family members

However, the cost of tuition and living expenses can be a significant barrier—making master’s scholarships for mature students essential.

What Makes Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students Unique?

Unlike traditional scholarships, those for mature students often consider life experience, career background, or community service. They may:

Have flexible application criteria
Not require recent academic records
Support part-time or online learners
Accommodate career breaks and parenting responsibilities

These scholarships are more accessible and inclusive for those with unconventional educational paths.

General Eligibility Criteria for Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students

Eligibility varies, but here are common requirements:

Age 25 or older (some specify 30+ or 35+)
Proof of admission into a master’s program
Demonstrated financial need (in some cases)
Clear career goals or motivation statement
Work or life experience in the relevant field

Some scholarships prioritize women returning to education, caregivers, underrepresented groups, or those pursuing specific degrees.

Types of Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students

There are various categories of master’s scholarships for mature students to explore.

Need-Based Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students

These scholarships are awarded based on financial need rather than academic merit.

Examples:

Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Graduate Scholarship
Offers financial aid to low-income students pursuing graduate studies.
Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
For low-income women 35+ pursuing a degree.

Career-Specific Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students

Many scholarships are tied to specific professions such as nursing, education, technology, or public service.

Examples:

NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program
Open to STEM professionals returning to pursue advanced degrees.
Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant
Supports mature students entering teaching careers.

University-Based Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students

Many universities offer internal scholarships for mature or non-traditional students.

Examples:

University of Cambridge – Cambridge Trust Scholarships
Some awards are open to older or returning students.
University of Manchester Mature Student Scholarships
For students aged 21+ entering postgraduate studies.

Scholarships for Women and Caregivers

Women returning to education after raising children or caregiving are often eligible for targeted aid.

Examples:

P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education (PCE)
For women returning to school after a break.
AAUW Career Development Grants
For women with bachelor’s degrees returning to pursue master’s programs.

Country-Specific Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students

Many national governments provide aid for adult learners pursuing master’s degrees.

United Kingdom:

Open University Bursaries
The Frank Stell Memorial Bursary (for students over 25)

United States:

FAFSA-based grants and loans
State-specific return-to-study programs

Canada

Canada Student Grants for Part-Time Students
Adult Upgrading Grant

Australia

Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP)
Relocation or Study Assistance for regional adults

Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students

Some scholarships cover full tuition, accommodation, travel, and living expenses. These are highly competitive and often merit-based or mission-driven.

Top fully funded scholarships for mature students include:

Chevening Scholarships (UK)
For leaders and professionals pursuing master’s degrees in the UK.
Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
Supports international graduates with leadership potential.
DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Offers fully funded master’s programs, often including a living stipend.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EU)
Ideal for mature students looking to study in multiple European countries.

Online Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students

Many mature students prefer online or hybrid learning models. Scholarships now accommodate this mode of study.

Examples

Western Governors University Scholarships (USA)
Designed for adult learners studying online.
University of Edinburgh Online Learning Scholarships
Available for global learners in part-time master’s programs.
University of the People Tuition-Free Degrees
Offers tuition-free master’s programs in fields like education and business.

Application Process for Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students

To apply successfully, follow these key steps:

Research Scholarships Early

Start looking at least 6–12 months before your program begins. Check university websites, scholarship portals, and government aid programs.

Helpful websites include:

Fastweb
Scholarships.com
PostgraduateFunding.com
ScholarshipPortal (EU)
Commonwealth Scholarships

Prepare Your Application Materials

Scholarship committees want to see your story. Typical documents include:

Personal statement or motivation letter
CV or resume (highlighting work/life experience)
Reference letters (from employers or mentors)
Proof of program acceptance
Financial need documentation (if applicable)

Customize Each Application

Don’t copy-paste. Tailor your application to show why you’re a strong fit for that specific scholarship.

Emphasize Non-Academic Strengths

Highlight:

Career achievements
Volunteer work
Community leadership
Life challenges overcome
Goals aligned with the scholarship mission

Meet All Deadlines

Late applications are rarely considered. Set reminders and organize documents early.

Tips for Winning Master’s Scholarships as a Mature Student

Tell Your Story: Authenticity matters. Share your journey and future goals.
Be Confident: Don’t downplay life experience—it’s your greatest strength.
Use Clear Language: Avoid jargon. Write clearly and concisely.
Ask for Feedback: Have someone proofread your essays.
Keep Applying: Rejection is normal. Persistence pays off.

Common Challenges for Mature Students Applying for Scholarships

Time Management

Balancing work, family, and applications can be tough. Use planners and break tasks into steps.

Lack of Academic References

If it’s been years since you were in school, ask supervisors, mentors, or community leaders for references.

Doubts About Worthiness

Many mature students feel they don’t “deserve” scholarships. That’s false. Your story, determination, and goals make you a powerful candidate.

Top Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students in 2025

Here’s a list of some of the best opportunities this year:

Scholarships for Mature Students in Specific Fields

Healthcare

Nurses Make a Difference Scholarship
Oncology Nursing Foundation Master’s Scholarship

Education

TEACH Grant
National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Scholarships

Technology

Google Scholarships for Returning Adults
Women Techmakers Scholarship

Business

Forté MBA Fellowships (for women)
National Black MBA Association Scholarships

Social Work & Public Policy:

Rotary Peace Fellowship
Council on Social Work Education Scholarships

FAQs About Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students

1. Can mature students apply for regular scholarships?
Yes. Many general scholarships don’t have age restrictions. Always check the criteria.

2. Is there an age limit for master’s scholarships?
Not usually. Some even prioritize older applicants.

3. Can mature students apply for international scholarships?
Yes. Most global scholarships like Chevening, Fulbright, and Erasmus welcome mature applicants.

4. Do I need recent academic records?
Some scholarships ask for transcripts, but others value work experience or personal essays more.

5. Are there scholarships for part-time master’s programs?
Yes. Many are designed for students balancing work and study.

Final Thoughts on Master’s Scholarships for Mature Students

Returning to school doesn’t mean going it alone. There are thousands of dollars in master’s scholarships for mature students just waiting to be claimed. Whether you’re 30, 40, or 60, it’s never too late to invest in your future.

The key is to start early, tell your story, and apply widely. Your unique path makes you a powerful candidate, and the right funding can turn your educational dream into reality.