Some view college as a ‘life hack’ that will lead them to higher lifetime earnings. But now, even some older Americans are seeing college as a life hack for retirement — regardless if it comes at a time when the pursuit of higher learning is unlikely to contribute to career growth.
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Going back to college can lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful retirement but it may also come with some financial perks too.
Take the hypothetical example of Cynthia, a 68-year-old single retiree, who recently enrolled in college. It’s her second stint pursuing higher education, having earned a degree in chemical engineering immediately following high school.
She had been passionate about science and designing better manufacturing processes, building a successful career in the pharmaceutical industry.
Now, she’s branching out from her world of science and mathematics, delving into the world of art history — something she gained a passion for while strolling the galleries of Europe on various vacations over the years.
Higher education options for older Americans
In her research, Cynthia discovered that most states offer free or discounted classes at colleges and universities for those approaching their golden years [1]. But even in states without state-wide programs, individual institutions might still step in to fill the void for older adults.
In her research, Cynthia also learned there are several types of programs available to her, which vary by state and by institution. For example, some colleges offer continuing education programs and lecture series designed specifically for those over a certain age (each institution has its own age criteria, but most gear these programs to those over 50, 55, 60 and older).
Others offer the opportunity to audit regular courses [2] — where you can attend lectures but don’t have to do any assignments (or exams!). The down side with such programs is that Cynthia wouldn’t receive any credit for her time and effort in the course.
Lastly, she discovered that there are also programs for older Americans where she can take a full degree program but at a discount. And even while the tuition may be free, learners over 65, like Cynthia, would likely still need to pay for associated expenses such as books and lab fees.
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Enrollment often comes with perks
For Cynthia, her choice came down to a program that allows her to audit courses at a discount — an option she’s happy with, since she doesn’t want to be bogged down with coursework or exams. Also, as she’s taking the courses for the pure enjoyment of lifelong learning, she isn’t concerned with earning a credential.
One major perk that comes with her enrollment is her access to the university library, where she can spend hours satisfying her curiosity about a wealth of topics.
Cynthia has a friend in another state, Ben, who’s attempting to earn a degree in his golden years. Although this is costing him some money, he also gains some benefits from full-time student status, such as access to the campus gym and healthcare services. There are even some decent student discounts with his transit system and at certain stores like Walmart.
While seniors receive many of the same discounts as students [3], it’s not a complete overlap. For example, Ben used his student discount to buy a laptop and some software — a discount that wasn’t available to seniors [4]. And while Ben and Cynthia may not be able to stack their discounts (for example, claiming both student and senior discounts on the same purchase), they also now have the option to choose which discount offers them a better deal for their specific needs.
Another perk? Beyond discounts, both Cynthia and Ben feel invigorated by the social interactions and intellectual stimulation college settings bring.
In fact, almost one-quarter (24%) of Americans aged 65 and older are considered socially isolated, and 43% of Americans 60+ report feeling lonely, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) [5] and Cynthia and Ben are seeking out ways to buck this trend.
Cynthia finds that even in the slightly more passive role of auditing classes, there’s a sense of community that comes with once again sharing the university experience with those around her. She’s been shy about joining campus clubs, but Ben has joined several and finds it a great way to meet like-minded individuals.
Supports to help older Americans continue learning
Ben, who is pursuing a more technical discipline, has also met some older adults who are looking to upgrade their skills because they want or need to return to work. He found it difficult at first to adapt to some of the new technologies he was expected to use, but he remained open to accepting help and reached out to any resources he could, such as peer tutors and training workshops.
Both Cynthia and Ben have also enlisted help from campus resources. With less energy than they had the first time around, as well as more outside commitments — Cynthia helps care for her grandchildren a few days a week — they’ve sought advice to help them work out a schedule that works for them.
Ben was also worried that his chronic health condition would interfere with his education, but his college offers accommodations — such as extensions on assignments — that will ensure he can continue his studies (if he needs them).
It turns out, for some Americans, going back to college can be a retirement life hack, helping them remain mentally and physically active, gaining the satisfaction of acquiring new skills and knowledge and expanding their social circles.
Their experience isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution — and post-secondary education can even end up as a net expense if Cynthia chooses a more traditional route. But with a variety of options available to prospective older students, there are now more options than ever before to enrich the lives of those looking to make the most of their golden years.
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[1]. World Population Review. “Free College Tuition for Seniors by State 2025”
[2]. Rutgers. “For Seniors, Audit Program Is Less ‘Back to School’ and More ‘Constantly Be Learning’”
[3]. AARP. “Biggest List of Senior Discounts in 2025”
[4]. The Freebie Guy. “The Ultimate List of Student Discounts and Deals”
[5]. National Library of Medicine. “Social isolation and loneliness in older adults: opportunities for the health care system”
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.