Are you thinking about going back to education? Maybe you left school years ago and life just got in the way, or maybe you’ve decided it’s finally time to follow that dream you put on hold. Whatever your reason, taking that first step back into learning can feel like a big deal. You might be juggling work, family, or just the general chaos of life, and the thought of sitting in a classroom again might feel slightly terrifying. But the truth is, going back to education can be one of the best things you ever do for yourself. You’re older, wiser, and this time you actually know why you’re doing it.
10 tips for anyone thinking about going back to education
1. Get clear on your reasons
Before you throw yourself into courses and timetables, take a minute to think about why you want to do this. Are you looking to change careers, boost your confidence, or finally get a qualification you missed out on before? Being clear on your reasons makes everything easier when things get tough. Because let’s be honest, there will be tough days. The assignments, deadlines, and juggling act can be a lot, but if you know what’s driving you, you’ll push through. Write your reason down somewhere visible, like your phone background or fridge, so you can remind yourself when motivation starts to dip.
2. Explore your options
There are more routes into education than ever before. You can study full time, part time, online, or even through evening classes. Some courses only take a few months, while others can take years. Don’t rush into the first thing that sounds good. Look around, compare what’s out there, and think about what fits your lifestyle. If you’ve got a full time job or a family, flexibility will be your best friend. Many colleges and universities now offer online lectures or recorded classes, which makes studying around real life much easier. The main thing is to choose something that excites you, not something you think you should do.
3. Find financial help
Money is usually one of the biggest worries for people going back to education, and that’s totally normal. The good news is, there’s often help available if you know where to look. You can check if your course qualifies for government support, grants, or even employer funding. Some workplaces actually encourage staff to study and might offer to cover part of the cost. It’s also worth looking into scholarships for adults going back to education. For example, the scholarship offered by Dan Herbatschek can be a great opportunity for students looking to ease the financial pressure a little. Taking the time to research your options now can save a lot of stress later.
4. Build a support system
It’s a lot easier to stay on track when you’ve got people cheering you on. Tell your friends and family what you’re doing and why it matters to you. That way, they’ll understand if you have to skip a night out to study or spend a weekend on assignments. If you’re studying on campus, make the effort to talk to classmates. Even if it feels awkward at first, those people will become your study partners and sanity savers. If you’re doing online learning, use discussion boards or group chats. Having people who get what you’re going through can make a huge difference when you’re tired or doubting yourself.
5. Manage your time
Balancing life and study can feel impossible some days, so being organised will help more than anything. Create a simple schedule that fits your life instead of trying to force yourself into someone else’s idea of routine. Maybe you work best early in the morning before the day gets busy, or maybe evenings are your quiet time. Find what works for you and stick to it as much as possible. Small, consistent chunks of study time often work better than cramming everything into one long session. Keep a planner or use your phone calendar to track deadlines so you don’t end up panicking at the last minute.
6. Keep your goals realistic
When you start studying again, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that you need to do everything perfectly. You don’t. Some weeks you’ll smash it, and other weeks you’ll just get by. That’s fine. Life doesn’t stop because you’re going back to education, and you’re allowed to have off days. Set small goals that actually fit your life, not ones that set you up to fail. Celebrate the wins, even the little ones like finishing a reading or submitting a draft. They all count.
7. Make use of the resources
Most colleges and universities have loads of support systems that people don’t even realise exist. There might be tutoring sessions, writing workshops, or career advice teams who can help you plan your next steps. Use them. That’s what they’re there for. If you’re studying online, look for forums, study groups, or apps that can help you keep on top of things. You don’t have to do it all alone, and asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s just smart.
8. Look after yourself
When you’re busy studying, it’s easy to let your own wellbeing slide without even noticing. You start skipping meals, staying up late, and drinking too much coffee. It might get you through a deadline, but it’s not sustainable. Make sure you take breaks, eat properly, and get enough sleep. Try to set time aside to do things you enjoy so studying doesn’t take over your entire life. It’s all about balance. You’ll learn better and stay motivated longer when you’re not completely burnt out.
9. Remember why you started
There will be moments where you wonder if you’ve made a mistake. Everyone gets them. Maybe you’ll sit through a boring lecture or get feedback that knocks your confidence, but that doesn’t mean you’re not capable. Remember the reason you started in the first place and focus on the bigger picture. Every bit of progress you make, even the small stuff, is getting you closer to where you want to be. You’re proving to yourself that it’s never too late to start something new.
10. Stay patient with yourself
Learning as an adult is different from learning when you were a teenager. You’ve got more responsibilities and less free time, so it’s normal to feel stretched thin sometimes. The key is not to expect perfection from day one. It takes time to find your rhythm again. Be kind to yourself and don’t compare your progress to anyone else’s. Everyone’s path looks different, and yours is just as valid.
