Completing Your College Application as an Adult Learner in 10 Steps

Reviewed by: Jess Smith, Director of Enrollment

It’s 10 PM. You’re scrolling endlessly through job boards again, feeling defeated because every position you’re interested in requires a degree you don’t have. It’s time for a change, but where do you even begin?

Maybe you’re motivated by the 66% average bump in weekly earnings for degree holders. Or it’s the thought of finally escaping that supervisor who micromanages you and doesn’t give you enough credit. Your path forward starts with completing your college application, so don’t let your age hold you back. The nontraditional student path is more common than you think, with 52.3% of all undergraduate students being 21 or older. 

Table of Contents

• How to Complete Your Application in 10 Steps
• 1. Research Your Program Options
• 2. Understand University Admission Requirements
• 3. Gather Your Transcripts
• 4. Craft a Compelling Personal Essay or Statement of Purpose
• 5. Request Letters of Recommendation
• 6. Fill Out the Online Application
• 7. Explore Financial Aid Options
• 8. Gather Required Documents
• 9. Review and Submit Your Application
• 10. Follow Up with the Admissions Team
• Conclusion
• FAQs

We know the idea of applying to college as an adult can feel overwhelming. The process can seem confusing, time-consuming, and full of unfamiliar jargon, especially if it’s been a while since you were last in school. Questions like “How does a FAFSA form help me?” or “What if I need transcripts from a closed institution?” can feel paralyzing.

That’s why we’ve broken down the application process into 10 clear, manageable steps. Each is bite-sized and actionable, so you can make steady progress in between work, family, and other responsibilities. This guide is specifically made to help adult learners make sense of the National University online application process.

The math is simple. If you keep doing the same thing, you will keep getting the same results. Every semester you put this off is another few months of staying where you are now. Let’s start today.

How to Complete Your Application in 10 Steps

1. Research Your Program Options

Before applying, take time to explore the degrees National University has to offer using our Program Finder. Start by narrowing your interests to one or two study areas to filter programs that align with your goals. Pay attention to factors like time commitment and career outcomes to find the best fit.

Whether you’re switching careers or upskilling for your current role, choosing the right program will be the foundation of your success. What sets National University apart for working adults like you? We offer: 

• Flexible scheduling means you can enroll in a program at any point during the year
• Accelerated options with 4-week courses, 8-week courses, and accelerated studies
• Dedicated student support—24/7 access, including resources for veterans
• Accessible courses designed to support students of all abilities
• Free tutoring lessons personalized for your needs

To get you started, here are some of our high-value programs that stand out for their job prospects and return on investment:

Bachelor of Science in Financial Management (BSFM): Teaches how to manage budgets, grow investments, and make data-driven financial decisions. This degree prepares you for roles like financial analyst, data analyst, and finance manager.

• Example career: Financial examiner
• Median salary: $90,400 per year
• Job outlook: 21% (much faster than average)

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS): Builds foundational and advanced knowledge in data structures, algorithms, and computer hardware and software. This program leads to roles like software developer, computer network architect, and cloud engineer.

• Example career: Information security analyst
• Median salary: $124,910 per year
• Job outlook: 33% (much faster than average)

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): Prepares students for careers in nursing with coursework in anatomy, physiology, and clinical nursing practice. BSN-prepared nurses often take on roles as case managers, intensive care unit (ICU) nurses, and travel nurses. 

• Example career: Nursing instructor
• Median salary: $79,940 per year
• Job outlook: 18% (much faster than average)

Bachelor of Arts in Management: Develops leadership, communication, strategy, and operations skills. This versatile program prepares professionals for roles such as project manager, market research analyst, and operations manager. 

• Example career: Logistician
• Median salary: $80,990 per year
• Job outlook: 19% (much faster than average)

When researching programs, know that National University takes a holistic approach to student success through the principles of Whole Human Education™. This is a 360-degree support system tailored for adult learners and addresses critical areas of student life. This approach gives you meaningful academic, financial, family, career, and wellness support so you can succeed both in school and in life. 

2. Understand University Admission Requirements

Once you’ve found the right program, the next step is making sure you meet NU’s admission requirements for adult learners. Here’s an overview of GPA requirements, standardized testing details, transcript policies, and information on alternative credit pathways for students with significant work experience or a military background. 

GPA Requirements

If you’ve graduated from high school and are transferring from a regionally accredited college or university, your cumulative GPA as an undergraduate must be 2.0 or higher. 

If your GPA is below a 2.0, you can still qualify for probationary admission by submitting a petition letter to the Committee on the Application of Standards, which will review your potential for success in college. 

SAT/ACT and Other Testing Requirements

National University does not require ACT or SAT scores for military applicants. However, if you’re entering without prior English or math coursework, you’ll need to complete one or both of the following placement tests:

• ACCUPLACER: A computerized test that determines your math placement level
• WritePlacer: A one-hour computerized test where you’ll write a 300–600-word essay to assess your English skills

First-time students must attend an orientation course through WES Training and Development before enrolling. This applies if you’ve never attended college or university or if your experiences are limited to competency-based education, college courses completed during high school, AP credit, military service or training, or prior learning credits.

Prior Learning Credit

National University supports adult learners from all experience backgrounds by offering prior learning credits for applicable, measurable nontraditional learning. This includes:

• Military training and experience
• Non-collegiate training programs 
• Advanced high school courses 
• Career experience
• Self-development

College credit is granted on a case-by-case basis for prior learning. It must be documented and fall within regular course credit offerings. The maximum number of credits accepted for non-collegiate learning is a cumulative total up to 135 Quarter units (90 semester units) for an undergraduate degree. 

We offer college credit for military service as a designated gold-level Military Friendly School®. If you’re an active-duty servicemember, Reservist, National Guardsman, or Veteran, check our page on qualifying military service for details. 

Providing Transcripts

Unofficial records will be enough for the admissions process. However, National University will need official records within 30 days of admission. The preferred method for delivering your transcripts is sending them electronically to [email protected]. You can learn more about this process below in step three or on our transcript resources page. 

If you have any questions about the admissions process, these resources can help:

• Request information about specific programs 
• Explore the admissions requirements
• Review the admissions checklist

3. Gather Your Transcripts

To complete your application, you’ll need to provide transcripts from your previous institutions. Here’s how to get it done:

1. Check your previous institution’s website and search for “transcript request” to find submission instructions.
2. Choose your delivery method.
   • NU’s preferred method: Have your transcript sent electronically to [email protected] (quickest and most secure option).
   • Mail option: Have your official transcript mailed in a sealed envelope to: National University, 9388 Lightwave Avenue, San Diego, CA 92123
3. Confirm your submission or check your transcript status based on your delivery method. If you need help, contact us at (855)355-6288 or [email protected].

If you can’t request a transcript directly from your institution or it’s a foreign school, try one of these alternatives: 

• Parchment Transcript Services (if your institution is not listed, contact Parchment Support to confirm availability)
• National Student Clearinghouse

If your institution has closed, know that they are required to provide ongoing access to your academic records indefinitely. They must also inform you about how to obtain your academic transcripts once the location has been determined. If you didn’t receive this information, contact the Department of Education in your school’s state.

4. Craft a Compelling Personal Essay or Statement of Purpose (If Needed)

If your program requires a personal statement, use this opportunity to tell your story. The committee reading it wants to see where you’ve come from, what drives you, and what unique experiences you’ve had and obstacles you’ve overcome to become who you are today.

To make your essay stand out, follow these best practices:

• Polish, polish, polish: Your essay should be error-free, filler-free, and make every word earn its spot. 
• A clear, unique theme that has a narrow focus: If you think too big, you risk losing depth and clarity. 
• Open with a strong hook: Grab attention from the first line with a vivid scene, a bold claim or question, or an unexpected statement.
• Be authentic and use your voice and personality: Use natural language and don’t write the way you think an essay “should sound.”
• Give concrete examples: Real moments from your life are more interesting and convincing than general statements. 
• Show growth and transformation: Admissions wants to see how you’ve changed and the lessons you’ve learned. 
• Tie your essay to your goals: Your story should tie to why you’re applying to college now, as an adult. 

5. Request Letters of Recommendation (If Required)

A strong letter of recommendation is like a personal introduction from a mutual friend, it can open doors that grades alone cannot. This is especially valuable if you’ve been out of school for a while. 

You want to choose people who can speak to your character, work ethic, and potential. This is usually supervisors, mentors, instructors, or professional colleagues. These are people who know you well and can genuinely vouch for you.

Tips for getting great recommendation letters:

• Ask early: Give your recommender four to six weeks’ notice
• Provide essential information: Include the deadline, submission instructions, your resume, a draft of your personal statement, and a summary of the program you’re applying to
• Follow up graciously: Send a gentle reminder a week before the due date, and always send a handwritten thank you note afterward

6. Fill Out the Online Application

Once you’ve chosen your program and gathered your materials and information, it’s time to complete the application. National University’s online application portal is user-friendly and can be completed in under 15 minutes.

Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:

1. Start your application: Visit the NU Application portal and choose the degree you’re looking for.

2. Choose your program: Select the area of study and choose your program from the dropdown menu. 

3. Enter your personal information: Please provide contact details and background info, such as marital status, race, gender, etc.

4. Add details about your employment status and educational experience: Please fill out information about employment and previous schooling.

5. Enter your Social Security number: This will simplify and speed up financial aid and enrollment processes.

6. Click the “Submit Application” button.

Need help? Contact an enrollment advisor at (855)355-6288 or click “Chat with an Advisor” on the right in the application portal. 

7. Explore Financial Aid Options

Lack of finances should not hold you back from earning your degree. There are several ways to make college more affordable, especially for adult learners. Here are the most common types of financial aid available:

• Grants: Typically need-based aid that doesn’t need to be repaid, such as the Federal Pell Grant.
• Scholarships: Merit- or need-based aid that also doesn’t need to be repaid. It’s usually awarded based on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, talent, or other qualities.
• Student loans: Money borrowed from the government or a private lender that must be repaid with interest. Federal loans are ideal for adult learners because they usually offer lower interest rates and flexible repayment options.
• Tuition assistance programs: Employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement or military tuition assistance programs that will cover part or all of the tuition cost.
• Tax credits: Programs like the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) and Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) can reduce how much you owe at tax time and ease overall costs.

Our financial aid advisors are here to help you understand your options and walk you through the financial aid process. If you have any questions, here are some resources:

• National University financial aid FAQs
• Learn how to apply for financial aid
• Financial aid options for adult learners
• Your financial aid checklist
• National University scholarships and grants

If you’d like to get in touch with our financial aid advisors, you can call (858) 642-8500 or email [email protected]. 

8. Gather Required Documents

While you work on filling out your application, gather the required documents that support your admission. Here’s what you may need to submit:

• Official transcripts from all previous institutions
  • Official transcripts are submitted after your application, but it’s a good idea to proactively gather these documents — they will need to be submitted within 30 days of admission. Once you’re enrolled, have your transcripts sent electronically to [email protected] for the fastest and most secure delivery. For other delivery options, see Step 3.
• Standardized test scores (if applicable)
  • Create an account with the testing agency (e.g., SAT, ACT, ACCUPLACER, or WritePlacer) and follow the instructions for reports to be sent electronically to the school of your choice.
• FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) 
  • Visit the Federal Student Aid website and fill out the form as early as possible to maximize your eligibility for grants, loans, and other forms of aid.
• Personal essay or statement of purpose (if applicable)
  • Upload your polished, final version through your institution’s website.
• Letter of recommendations (if required)
  • These should be submitted directly by your recommenders via email or the designated online submission form. Be sure to follow program-specific instructions.

Always check your program’s specific requirements and deadlines to make sure you’ve submitted everything on time. All documents should be submitted securely through an application portal or emailed per the instructions provided.

9. Review and Submit Your Application

Before you hit submit, double-check every document for accuracy and completeness. Mistakes, missing documents, or outdated information can delay your admission or affect your financial aid eligibility.

Use this checklist to make sure you have everything in order:

• Your contact information (email, phone number, mailing address) is correct
• Official transcripts have been sent or are en route and will arrive within 30 days
• Standardized test scores (if required) have been submitted
• ACCUPLACER and/or WritePlacer placement tests completed (if applicable)
• Personal essay or statement of purpose (if required) is submitted
• Letters of recommendation (if required) have been requested and received
• FAFSA form is complete and submitted
• You’ve met any additional requirements for your program
• Your application and enrollment paperwork are complete
• All supporting documents are submitted in the correct formats

Finally, save copies of all documentation and confirmation numbers or emails for your records.

10. Follow Up with the Admissions Team

After submitting your application, you don’t have to just wait around and wonder. Feel free to follow up with our admissions team to confirm everything was received and to see if any additional steps are needed. This is an important step if there are deadlines involved, such as official transcripts or financial aid. 

Questions about your application status or next steps? Our admissions team is here to help. Call us at (855) 355-6288 or email [email protected].

Conclusion

By following these 10 steps, you’ll move from uncertainty to clarity. From doomscrolling job boards at 10 PM to taking real action toward the future you want. You’re joining thousands of other working adults taking this same leap right now. You’re following in the footsteps of others who turned late-night anxiety into morning action — and transformed their lives.

The change doesn’t happen overnight, but you won’t be doing it alone. At National University, we’ll support you every step of the way with flexible programs, personalized guidance, and our Whole Human Education™ model that supports your academic, career, and personal well-being. Wherever you’re coming from, your goals are possible, and we’ll help you get there.

FAQs

Q: Is there a specific deadline for submitting my application as an adult learner?

A: Applications are accepted year-round. New students can begin classes any month of the year.

Q: My GPA from previous college courses wasn’t very high. Will this hurt my chances of acceptance?

A: If your GPA is below a 2.0, you can still qualify for probationary admission. You’ll need to submit a petition letter to the Committee on the Application of Standards, which will review your potential for success in college.

Q: What kind of support is available for adult learners at NU?

A: NU supports adult learners with flexible scheduling, accelerated courses, and a 360-degree Whole Human Education™ model that provides academic, financial, career, family, and wellness support.

Q: Can I get college credit for my work experience or prior learning?

A: Yes, National University supports adult learners by offering college credits for nontraditional learning such as military training and experience, non-collegiate training programs, career experience, self-development, and advanced high school courses. Email us at [email protected] for more information. 

Q: Are there any scholarships for adults returning to school?

A: Yes, there are many scholarships available specifically for adult learners. Check sites like scholarships.com for up-to-date information on scholarships with approaching deadlines.