Traditional Vs. Non-Traditional Students in Higher Education
Higher education is evolving along with the students filling college classrooms. While the term “traditional student” once referred to young adults fresh out of high school, today’s reality is far more diverse. A growing number of learners are balancing work, family and other responsibilities while pursuing degrees—blurring the lines between traditional and non-traditional students.
In fact, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, 23% of part-time undergraduate students are between the ages of 25 and 34, while 18% are 35 or older. Even among full-time undergraduates, 10% fall in the 25-34 age range and 5% are 35 or older. These shifting demographics highlight the need for institutions to rethink their approach to student support, engagement and success.
Colleges that fail to adapt risk falling behind, as learners now expect flexible learning options, seamless digital experiences and personalized support. Explore the key differences between traditional and non-traditional students, why these categories are becoming less distinct and discover essential strategies to help all learners thrive.
What Is a Traditional Undergraduate Student?
A traditional undergraduate student is typically someone between the ages of 18 and 24 who transitions directly from high school to college or after a planned "gap year," often following a path of full-time study on a campus.
These students tend to immerse themselves in campus life, balancing coursework with extracurricular activities, internships and social experiences. While their journey may seem straightforward, they still face challenges such as adjusting to newfound independence, managing academic pressures and planning for their future careers.
What Is a Non-Traditional Undergraduate Student?
Non-traditional undergraduate students, sometimes called post-traditional students, may deviate from their so-called traditional counterparts in more ways than age. Adult students often face unique challenges such as balancing work-life commitments and navigating financial aid options designed specifically for them. Even a learner aged 18 to 24 may be considered non-traditional by certain researchers, accreditors or institutions if they meet at least one of the following criteria:
- They delayed enrollment in postsecondary education by more than a year after completing high school.
- They have dependents other than a spouse. In addition to children, dependents may include elderly parents, siblings or other family members for whom the student is financially responsible.
- They work full-time while enrolled.
- They are part-time students taking less than 12 courses per term.
- They earned a GED or high school certificate of completion rather than a diploma. High school graduation status is considered because it helps identify students who did not achieve a standard diploma or equivalent certification, further informing interventions for these students.
These diverse experiences and responsibilities mean that non-traditional students often require different forms of support, from financial aid flexibility to academic advising tailored to their unique needs. Beyond degree-seeking learners, many students are also enrolling in certificate programs, professional development courses and other non-degree pathways to gain skills and advance their careers—further expanding the definition of what it means to be a modern learner.
What Is a Non-Traditional, Non-Degree-Pursuing Student?
“Non-traditional” covers a wide variety of students. In addition to describing certain undergraduates, the term is also frequently used to refer to students who are enrolled in programs beyond degree-granting undergraduate or graduate programs.
These programs—which are often focused on skill development, career advancement or personal enrichment—may include lifelong learners enrolled in:
- Continuing education courses, workshops or seminars designed for professionals who are looking to upskill or reskill in their current field or transition to a new career
- Professional development programs that offer certifications, licensures or specialized training to improve a student’s job performance or advance their career
- Executive education programs targeted to mid-career professionals, executives and managers who are seeking to enhance their leadership skills and business acumen
- Workplace development programs, which focus on in-demand skills or industries and often include collaborations with employers to ensure the curriculum is relevant to current job market needs
Although these programs don't typically offer standard degrees, many award alternative credentials, including certificates and microcredentials.
Traditional and Non-Traditional Student Demographics
According to data from the Lumina Foundation, the demographics of today’s college students include the following:
- 37% are age 25 or older
- 46% are first-generation college-attendees
- 9% are first-generation immigrants
- 64% work while enrolled (40% work full-time and 24% part-time)
- 49% are financially independent from their parents
- 6% are active military or veterans
- 24% have children or other independents
The trends around students enrolled show a significant shift towards a more diverse student body, reflecting various age groups, work commitments and family responsibilities.
The lines between traditional and non-traditional students are blurred and inexact. Some institutions categorize a student as traditional or non-traditional purely by age, whereas others consider financial independence, veteran status, work obligations, financial and family status, among other factors.
Traditional vs. Non-Traditional Students
While all students share the goal of higher education, their experiences, motivations and challenges can vary greatly depending on their life stage. Understanding these differences is key to creating learning environments and support systems that meet the unique needs of both traditional and non-traditional students.
Life Stage
Traditional and non-traditional students are typically at different stages in their personal development. Traditional students who are transitioning from high school to college are grappling with the triumphs and challenges of early adulthood.
Older students bring different perspectives, world views and values that they’ve had more time and experience to establish.
Motivation
Traditional students often seek to gain knowledge, prepare for a career or experience personal growth.
A 2023 survey focused on American students aged 16 to 22 found that 73% believe they have a clear vision of where they want their career to go. Yet, 51% are unsure of the next best step in their education. They hope their undergraduate journey will help them establish those steps.
Non-traditional students (or “adult learners”) are more likely to have a precise educational journey in mind. By and large, their primary motivator for enrollment is to advance or change their career. Career changers and returning students know exactly which skills and knowledge sets they need to meet their goals and understand how higher education will help.
Put simply, traditional students view college as a time of personal exploration, whereas non-traditional learners view it as the clearest pathway toward their established goals.
Responsibilities
Non-traditional students are more likely to juggle multiple responsibilities beyond academics, such as work, family and community commitments. These responsibilities can impact their availability to attend class or office hours, participate in co-curricular activities and take advantage of other campus opportunities or support systems.
Younger students typically have more time to engage in non-classroom activities. In fact, they may not see these as extras; for many students straight out of high school, joining student organizations and building relationships with faculty are key parts of the college experience. They also are more likely to live on campus (or very close to it), making participation easier.
Learning Style
Students who have professional work experience may approach learning with a more practical and applied focus, drawing on their real-world experiences. They may prefer hands-on learning, case studies or problem-based learning over lectures or group discussions. They may also be inclined towards self-directed learning, taking responsibility for their own learning processes and seeking out resources that align with their goals.
Traditional students may be more accustomed to traditional academic exercises. They may be most excited by theoretical ideas and broad concepts rather than career-specific training.
Challenges and Opportunities for Non-Traditional Students
Non-traditional students face unique challenges that can impact their academic success and overall college experience. However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth, learning and personal development.
Balancing School, Life and Work
One of the most significant challenges non-traditional students face is balancing school, life and work responsibilities. Many non-traditional students have family members, work full-time or have other obligations that can make it difficult to attend classes or complete assignments. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity for non-traditional students to develop time management and organizational skills, which are essential for success in both academics and professional life.
To overcome this challenge, non-traditional students can explore flexible learning options, such as online courses or evening classes, that can accommodate their busy schedules. They can also seek support from family members, friends or colleagues who can help with childcare or other responsibilities. Additionally, non-traditional students can take advantage of campus resources, such as academic advising, tutoring and counseling, to help them manage their time and prioritize their responsibilities.
Financing a College Education
Financing a college education is another significant challenge non-traditional students face. Many non-traditional students are financially independent, which means they don't have access to parental financial support. However, this challenge presents an opportunity for non-traditional students to explore alternative funding options, such as scholarships, grants and employer reimbursement.
To overcome this challenge, non-traditional students can research and apply for scholarships and grants specifically designed for adult learners or non-traditional students. They can also explore employer reimbursement programs or tuition assistance programs that can help cover the cost of tuition. Additionally, non-traditional students can seek support from financial aid counselors who can help them navigate the financial aid process and identify available funding options.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Adult Learners
Non-traditional students have access to a range of scholarships and financial aid options that can help cover the cost of tuition. Here are some scholarships and financial aid options available to adult learners:
- Pell Grants: Federal grants that do not need to be repaid, available to undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG): Additional federal grants for students with exceptional financial need.
- Adult Student Grant Program: State-specific grants designed to support adult learners returning to higher education.
- Employer Tuition Assistance: Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs to help employees further their education.
- Scholarships for Non-Traditional Students: Various organizations and institutions offer scholarships specifically for non-traditional students, such as the Osher Reentry Scholarship and the Alpha Sigma Lambda Scholarship.
By expanding financial aid outreach, simplifying application processes and offering tailored guidance, higher education institutions can better support non-traditional students in accessing the resources they need.
Providing flexible payment plans, promoting employer-sponsored tuition assistance and creating dedicated financial aid advising for adult learners can help reduce financial barriers. Institutions that proactively address these needs ensure that non-traditional students can focus on their education without undue financial stress.
How Can Institutions Support Traditional and Non-traditional Students?
Traditional students may benefit most from academic advising, mentorship programs and career coaching. These services help students devise and navigate academic pathways, overcome academic hurdles, explore career options and prepare for the workforce. They encourage students to merge their passions with feasibility, converting their interests into realistic professional goals and skill sets.
Student co-curricular engagement is also key for traditional students. Numerous studies have shown that students who engage with student organizations and events are more likely to feel connected to their institutions, maintain high GPAs and persist through to graduation. High-impact practices especially propel skill development and retention.
Non-traditional students also benefit from those same services, but they often need flexible learning options. Online courses, evening classes and accelerated programs are popular for accommodating busy schedules. By offering on-campus childcare services or partnerships with local childcare providers, institutions can expand enrollment.
Because non-traditional students tend to be focused on specific career trajectories, offering courses related to practical skills and knowledge may also support retention. Similarly, institutions should consider offering learning assessment programs that allow students to earn college credit for knowledge and skills acquired through work experience or other non-traditional learning experiences.
Institutions seeking to support non-traditional learners should also leverage technology to ensure that learners—including those who commute to campus or attend class online—can easily access campus resources, including libraries, technology and academic support services.
Rethinking Student Support: Meeting the Needs of Today’s Learners
As higher education evolves, the distinction between traditional and non-traditional students is becoming less rigid. Many so-called “traditional” students juggle jobs, caregiving and other commitments, while non-traditional learners bring valuable real-world experience into the classroom. What remains clear is that institutions must adapt to meet the diverse needs, motivations and challenges of today’s students—whether they are fresh out of high school or returning to earn a degree later in life.
Offering flexible learning options, personalized academic pathways and targeted support services, colleges and universities creates an environment where all students can succeed. This means providing accessible financial aid guidance, implementing career-aligned learning opportunities and leveraging technology to engage students wherever they are.
Modern Campus is a leader in student engagement and lifelong learning solutions, empowering institutions to support non-traditional students with personalized learning experiences, streamlined enrollment processes and career-focused education pathways. With tools designed to enhance retention, engagement and success, Modern Campus helps institutions build a future-ready student experience. Request a demo today and discover how you can better serve every learner, no matter their journey.
Last updated: April 4, 2025