What are Adult Education Grants?

Adult education grants are funds extended to qualified adults who wish to continue their education at a higher institution of learning. Grants of this type may be issued by a particular educational institution, a community organization or charity, individuals, or a government entity. In most cases, adult education grants are paid directly to the school where the adult is enrolled, with any funds left over after tuition and fees are paid made available to the student to help with books and other supplies related to the educational process.

There are a number of different types of adult education grants. Some are geared toward a particular course of study, such as art, education, music, or business administration. Music education grants normally require some type of credentials on the front end that indicate that the applicant has the ability to successfully complete a degree program in this area. For example, an adult who is pursuing a music degree with an eye toward becoming a professional musician may be required to attend an audition and play for the evaluation committee.

Other adult education grants can be used with any number of different approved degree programs. In some countries, a grant of this type is referred to as a basic or general adult education grant. As long as the student has been accepted at a properly certified college or university and plans on pursuing a degree at that institution, there is a good chance he or she will be eligible to apply.

Past academic performance is also important when applying for any of the several different adult education grants. While some grant programs place more emphasis on this aspect than others, most do look to grades from high school and any previous college experience as an indication of the student’s commitment to pursuing a degree. Grades within an acceptable range make it easier for evaluation committees to determine if the applicant has the basic skills necessary to succeed in a college level learning environment.

Adult education grants are sometimes issued on the basis of need. Applicants within a certain economic bracket, usually those who are unable to afford college on their own and are not eligible for scholarships at the present time, are usually prime candidates. Grants from the private sector are also provided to people in particular living circumstances, such as a single parent or an individual with a physical disability.

In most cases, the student must maintain a minimum grade point average and be registered for a minimum number of hours per quarter or semester in order to continue receiving the grant. Different adult education grants set different criteria, with many requiring that the student be registered for enough hours to be considered full time, and the grades to remain at least at an average level. However, there are exceptions, especially among grants issued by charities and other entities where the goal is to help working adults obtain a degree while still holding down a full-time job.