Perhaps you miss the stimulation of your college experience. Or maybe you never had the opportunity to attend but love to learn. Whatever your motivation, there are considerable benefits to going back to school.
Learning at any age exercises the brain. When you learn something new, your brain develops new neural pathways, which has proven benefits for problem-solving, memory skills and overall cognitive ability.
Taking a college or university course, even if it is online, helps build social connections and ward off isolation— an important factor in keeping seniors healthy and happy.
According to the American Council on Education, half of U.S. college students who are age 50 or older attend community colleges to connect with others or have fun rather than for career purposes.
In the U.S., colleges, universities, community centers and libraries recognize the value of offering seniors educational opportunities by offering reduced fees, tax credits, and in some cases even free classes to seniors.
Tuition Waivers for Seniors
A number of universities in the U.S. will waive or significantly reduce tuition for seniors for credit and non-credit courses. According to the American Council on Education, 60% of accredited degree-granting U.S. educational institutions offer tuition waivers for older adults.
Senior Tax Deductions
The U.S. government offers tax deductions up to $10,000 in a lifetime for higher education purposes.
How Seniors Can Audit a Course
If you don’t qualify for a tuition waiver program or the school you are interested in doesn’t offer it, then consider auditing a course instead. Many colleges and universities will let seniors audit a course —which means that you can attend lectures but probably won’t need to do homework or take exams. Auditing allows you to enjoy the social and learning benefits without the associated stress of exams. However with this option you don’t receive college credit. To audit a course you usually have to receive permission from the professor.
Community College Courses for Seniors
84% of U.S. community colleges offer courses specifically for students age 50 and older. These courses are usually not free, although some colleges do offer seniors a discount.
Online Courses for Seniors
Some U.S. online courses are free to audit and some states will waive online fees if you are over a certain age (usually 60). Online learning is a great option for seniors who have mobility issues, lack transportation or live in a rural setting.
Libraries, Community Center and Senior Center Courses
Your local library is a good place to look for free courses of interest. Many offer computer, photography, art and genealogy classes for free. You just need a library card to sign up. Community and Senior Centers also offer general interest courses at reasonable prices.
The benefits of learning for seniors can make a significant difference in mental and cognitive health, social connections and overall happiness. Consider exploring the joys of continuing education as a senior.
By Caren Parnes
Contributor for The Senior’s Choice
