Returning to College: Explore Your Options

Presented by Columbia University

It’s never too late to begin or return to college. There are plenty of opportunities for adult learners to better their education and take the steps toward earning a degree. Returning to college, often known as re-entry, is typically for those 25 years of age or older. You don't need to have attended college at all to be eligible, and many adults seeking re-entry spend time in the workforce straight out of high school.

Columbia University School of General Studies  (GS), located in New York City, offers a unique opportunity, specifically for returning and nontraditional students. This rigorous School is the only one of its kind among Ivy League institutions and students can enroll full or part time.

Seamless Transition When Returning to College

If you’ve taken a one-year or longer break in your education, the Columbia University School of General Studies could be a good choice for continuing your education. The average student at GS is 27 years old and students can expect to join a community of talented students who often pursue advanced degrees following graduation.

At GS, students are seamlessly integrated into undergraduate student life and have access to more than 500 student organizations on Columbia’s Upper West Side campus. GS students take the same courses, have access to the same majors, fulfill the same requirements, and earn the same degree as all other undergraduate students at Columbia University.

You’re Not Alone

Returning to college may seem daunting, but at GS you’re not alone! More than 2,000 students are enrolled in the School at a time, meaning students have the benefit of being part of a community of peers who have also taken a nontraditional path in pursuing their education.

When choosing a program to return to college, it’s also important to consider the support you will receive as you work to achieve your goals. GS’s dedicated academic advisors and financial aid counselors specifically understand the needs of nontraditional students. While you're deciding if you want to apply, you can even reach out to Columbia to schedule a prospective student appointment and discuss your academic history, eligibility, course work and potential transfer credits.

Once you’re on campus, your academic advisor will be an excellent resource for learning about what programs and events are being offered to help you explore career paths or prepare for graduate or professional school. Your dedicated advisor will help you navigate the University's many offerings and opportunities from your acceptance until your graduation day.