Adult Learners

It's never too late to invest in yourself and your future. Whether adults ages 19 and older are interested in higher education for the first time or finishing a program they’ve already started, College Now helps individuals explore the educational pathways needed for their desired careers.

Empowering Adults to Take the Next Step

Returning to school as an adult brings both unique challenges and exciting opportunities. That’s why College Now’s adult learner team provides personalized support to help you navigate each step of the process – from exploring career paths and applying to programs to understanding financial aid options. Whether you’re just getting started or picking up where you left off, we’re here to make your journey more manageable and meaningful.

You can meet with an advisor virtually or visit our Resource Centers in Cleveland or Akron for in-person support, workshops and access to tools that can help you move forward. Connect with us or see below to discover how College Now can help you take your next step!

 

Enrollment Support

We provide personalized support for adults pursuing higher education, whether they’re working toward a two- or four-year degree, or enrolling in a trade or vocational program. Our specialized services include expert guidance on the application process, ensuring that our clients can access the educational opportunities that best suit their goals and aspirations.

Career Exploration Guidance

College Now is a compass for adult learners in the pursuit of a rewarding career. We specialize in providing comprehensive career exploration guidance, helping them navigate the path to their dream professions. Our expert advisors map out program-to-career pipelines that align perfectly with the region’s most sought-after and in-demand careers. With College Now by their side, adult learners gain the clarity and direction needed to make informed decisions and set a course for their successful futures.

Financial Aid Support

College Now is a trusted partner in navigating the complexities of financial aid. We help clients complete the FAFSA and support individuals in scholarship application submissions, ensuring they can access the financial resources they need to pursue their college aspirations.

Cuyahoga County Debt Repayment Program

Through the Cuyahoga County Debt Repayment program, eligible Cuyahoga County residents may qualify for payment of up to $2,000 toward debt to return to Tri-C or CSU.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Have resided in Cuyahoga County for at least one year
  • Has stopped out for at least one semester (not  including summer) at Tri-C or Cleveland State
  • Has previously incurred institutional debt at Tri-C or Cleveland State
  • Is Pell Grant eligible
  • Will be returning to Tri-C or CSU

Please complete this form to determine Cuyahoga County Debt Repayment Eligibility. Please note that submitting your information does not guarantee acceptance to the debt repayment program. 

Learn More

GED or High School Equivalency Support

College Now is committed to empowering adults in their journey to obtain a GED or high school equivalency, making them eligible to seek higher education. Our organization collaborates with trusted partners to provide invaluable resources, including free tutoring, financial assistance through testing vouchers and transportation support to ensure easy access to testing centers.

College Now-Supported Scholarships for Adult Learners

College Now offers renewable scholarships for adult learners – ages 19 and older –  who have taken at least one year off after high school. Eligible applicants are Pell-eligible and pursuing their first bachelor’s degree, an associate degree or a vocational/technical certificate or license. Awards are based on both academic performance and financial need and require completion of the scholarship application and other criteria.

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College Now Adult Learner Scholarship

Financial assistance for Northeast Ohio adults pursuing a first bachelor’s or associate degree, certificate or license in a vocation or technical program.

Apply today

College Now Manufacturing Scholarship

One-time award for adults pursuing a training program in manufacturing, leading to a license, certification or degree.

Apply today

Jane Edna Hunter Scholarship

Need-based financial assistance for full-time undergraduate women under age 30.

Application will be open December 2025 – April 2026 

The College Club of Cleveland Foundation Scholarship

Financial assistance for Northeast Ohio adults pursuing a first bachelor’s or associate degree, certificate or license in a vocation or technical program.

Apply today

Resettled Refugee Visible Voice Scholarship for Adults

One-time award for resettled refugees ages 19 and older who live in and are enrolled at trade/technical school or community college in Cuyahoga County

Application will be open December 2025 – April 2026

Additional Scholarship Opportunities

In addition to the scholarships offered by College Now, there are many outside scholarships available to help offset the rising costs of college. We have compiled a database of many of these scholarships to make it easier for students to identify opportunities available to them. These scholarships have been researched and vetted by our scholarship team to help discern their value and legitimacy.

View outside scholarships

Our Locations

College Now Resource Center
Post Office Plaza
1500 West 3rd Street, Suite 125
Cleveland, OH 44113
Hours: Mondays – Fridays,
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

OhioMeansJobs Summit County
1040 East Tallmadge Avenue
Akron, OH 44310
Hours: Mondays and Tuesdays,
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The University of Akron
Polsky Building, Room 451
225 S. Main Street
Akron, OH 44308

Hours: Mondays and Tuesdays,
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.