How to Go Back to College After Dropping Out
Updated April 4, 2025
Edited by
If you had to drop out of college, you're not alone. But if you want a degree, you can return to college and finish what you started.
The latest National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) data shows that 36% of undergraduate students do not complete their degree programs within six years. On top of that, the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center projects that 36.8 million Americans under age 65 have some college credit but no degree.
If "some college but no degree" describes you, use our guide below to find up-to-date, data-driven resources, tips, and information that can help you reenroll in college after dropping out and graduate with the degree you want.
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Why Students Withdraw From College
Most students who drop out of college do so for one of three reasons: emotional stress, financial challenges, or mental health issues. Reports from Inside Higher Education say that the top three reasons are consistent among surveys.
Fortunately, you can overcome these challenges with the right tools. Many colleges provide extensive resources, including financial aid, professional counseling, and peer support, all of which can help you earn your degree.
The Consequences of Dropping out of College
Dropping out of college often provides short-term relief from an emotional, financial, or mental health issue, but it exacerbates the challenges over time. People with some college but no degree can face social stigma and perceived feelings of failure. They may also earn less money throughout their working lives.
College dropouts can even have more debt. Let's say you borrowed money to pay for college but didn't complete your degree; the result is that you are carrying student loans without the high-paying job you hoped would repay them. If you are considering dropping out of college, talk to a financial advisor and a mental health professional before making that decision.
What if you have already dropped out of college? You can go back and get your degree. Here's how to reenroll.
Steps to Reenroll in College After You Dropped Out
- Choose your college. You are probably eligible to return to your previous college, but if you'd prefer to study elsewhere, choose one of the 6,000 higher education institutions in the U.S. Our list of the best online colleges can help you decide where to go.
- Fill out the application as a transfer student. If you have 12 or more college credits, you will probably qualify for admission as a transfer student, which may mean less work on the application than a first-time enrollee.
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Dropping out of school does not automatically disqualify you from receiving federal student aid. Many private donors also require FAFSA information for scholarship applications, so complete the form early.
- Start classes. Once you've been accepted, start your classes and follow the tips below to help you earn the grades you want and the degree you need for your desired career path.
9 Tips for Going Back to College
-
1
Set yourself up for success.
Know why you dropped out before and what you can do differently this time. Did you drop out for financial reasons? Apply for financial aid, create a budget, and consider tuition-free online colleges. Did you drop out because of mental health concerns? Make an appointment with your counselor and a healthcare provider before school starts.
-
2
Consider the benefits of online college.
Going to college online no longer carries the stigma that it did a couple of decades ago. Almost every student went to school online in 2020, and it's considered normal now. Transferring to an online college can save time and money, and it allows you the flexibility to work and meet family obligations while learning.
-
3
Check in with a therapist or licensed counselor.
When you apply to college, talk to your therapist about your goals and how to achieve them. Don't have a therapist? Many colleges and universities provide free counseling for students, including online learners. Don't forget to see your primary care provider, too, so you can stay on top of your physical health, which can also impact your schooling.
-
4
Maximize your financial aid.
Do not leave money on the table. Pell Grants are a form of need-based aid provided by the federal government to qualifying students pursuing their first bachelor's degrees. Fill out the FAFSA to see if you are eligible. You can also apply for scholarships from your college, faith community, employer, or another funder.
-
5
Transfer all your credits.
If you took AP classes or earned early college credit in high school, be sure to send those transcripts to your institution. If you took a CLEP or DANTES assessment, don't forget to mail the results to your school. Even one class you picked up at a community college is one less class you must take now.
-
6
Save money and time with Prior Learning Assessments.
Prior Learning Assessments (PLAs) are how you turn your life experiences into college credit. You might be able to use workplace development, military training, a professional certification, or a proficiency exam as proof that you completed the equivalent of a college course. Not all schools accept PLAs, so ask your admissions counselor about your college's policy.
-
7
Take advantage of your college's free tutoring.
Almost every college offers a writing center and free tutoring services, but according to one 2022 study by the Primary Research Group, only around 35% of learners take advantage of these resources. Don't be embarrassed to ask for help. Tutors can make the difference between a passing grade — and ultimately a degree — and another failed college experience.
-
8
Select a career-focused major you will love.
Your major determines the largest chunk of your coursework and the utility of your degree after graduation. Don't pick a major because you think it will pay off big or it was your favorite subject in school. Choose a field you can enjoy with classes you can pass so that you're able to launch a career in which you can thrive.
-
9
Establish a dedicated system for studying.
Passion won't get you through a challenging course, but a sound studying system probably will. At the beginning of the term, create a schedule for all your big projects using your syllabus and a calendar. Then, employ a proven productivity method like the Pomodoro Technique, where you study in 25-minute increments punctuated by five- to 15-minute breaks.
How to Choose the Right University to Finish Your Degree
If you aren't returning to the college where you started, what should you look for when considering potential universities?
- Accreditation: Choosing an accredited college gives you access to federal financial aid and state licensure potential. Accreditation also gives your degree value in the private marketplace. Look for institutional accreditation and any relevant programmatic accreditation.
- Transfer Policies: Choose a school with a generous transfer policy. Some universities will transfer up to 90 credits toward your degree. The more you transfer, the quicker you can graduate and the less you have to pay.
- Stackable Credentials: At a few colleges, you can earn certificates at milestone points along your academic journey. Consequently, if you have to leave school again, you will have a credential to show for your work.
- Online Courses: Learning online is usually much more flexible and less time-consuming than studying in person. As a result, you can work, pursue hobbies, or spend time with family and friends while earning your degree.
- Flexible Scheduling: A flexible schedule allows you to earn money and reduce your financial burden. If you study on campus, look for programs offering night classes, hybrid learning experiences, or weekend classes.
Resources
View a map of colleges and universities that have joined the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning, an organization dedicated to helping learners aged 25-plus to thrive in academia and the workplace.
The U.S. government provides this online resource to assist nontraditional students with navigating the federal financial aid network. This website is the place to go if you have questions about the FAFSA, federally sponsored scholarships, or whether you can get a Pell Grant if you have bad credit.
his organization provides extensive resources for nontraditional students, from research articles on the latest trends in higher education to tips on how to reenroll in college after dropping out.
Frequently Asked Questions About Going Back to College
Can you go back to college after dropping out?
Yes, you can reenroll in college after dropping out. Every year, thousands of students who leave college return to school at a community college, online university, or local public or private institution.
Is it hard to go back to college after dropping out?
College could be much easier the second time around if you successfully address the barriers to education that caused you to drop out the first time. Make sure you have your financial aid lined up, surround yourself with the resources you need, and choose a school that will support your vision for graduation.
Can I go back to college if I still owe student loans from FAFSA?
You can often qualify for federal student aid even if you dropped out of college in the past. However, suppose you have defaulted on a student loan or lost eligibility for another reason. In that case, you must work with your financial aid counselor to regain eligibility for federal financial aid.
Can you start over in college without transcripts?
You must submit your transcripts when you reenroll because colleges want to see how you have performed academically. However, community colleges often admit all applicants regardless of previous academic performance. Other schools may offer you a space if you submit a letter explaining your low grades and how you intend to improve them.
What is the best degree to start at 40?
The best degree to start at age 40 is the degree that interests you and helps you meet your academic and professional goals. Popular undergraduate majors include business, healthcare fields, and computer and information sciences.
Latest Posts
Best Affordable Online Associate Degrees 2025
Affordable online associate degrees prepare you for entry-level careers and further studies. Popular degree choices include business, nursing, and more.
Transferring Credits To Online Colleges
Transferring to an online college can be beneficial. Here, we outline what you need to know to successfully transfer credits.
Best Online Accelerated Degrees for Working Adults
Online degrees are quick, flexible, and affordable. We'll help outline what you need to know about accelerated degree programs for working adults.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Do this for you
Explore your possibilities- find schools with programs you’re interested in and clear a path for your future.