As the fall semester approaches, we know that many adult learners are returning to school for the first time in awhile.

Starting a new program can always be daunting, but it can feel particularly challenging for professionals with work responsibilities, family obligations, and potential financial concerns. This may be the first time that you’re worried about working a job, paying for school, and taking classes.

But we’ve got good news: Being prepared can be the key to success. This ultimate return-to-school checklist will help you account for everything heading your way and ensure you’re as ready as possible for the upcoming semester— and your new educational journey.

1. Understand upcoming costs

Before you register for your first class, it's crucial to have a complete picture of what your education will actually cost. Tuition is just the beginning, and there can be additional expenses that can catch adult learners off guard.

Beyond tuition, consider potential costs for:

• Textbooks.
• Course materials.
• Technology fees.
• Lab fees.
• Required software or equipment.

These fees won’t be applicable to all programs. Some colleges, for example, have Microsoft courses that require you to purchase the Microsoft Office suite of tools. Similarly, nursing programs may have lab fees that business graduate certificates wouldn’t require.

You also want to account for non-educational costs, like additional childcare or transportation costs. 

Check whether your tuition assistance benefits cover any additional expenses. Some may cover books and fees in addition to tuition, for example.

And if your benefits don’t cover all the costs, you can create a financial plan to account for these expenses before you’re in the thick of it. EdAssist’s™ financial coaches can help you make a plan that accounts for education benefits, student loan repayment, and more.

2. Choose your first class strategically

Your first class back can set the tone for your entire educational experience. If you’re struggling with imposter syndrome or want to adjust to the expectations of school again, it’s not the time to dive right into the most challenging or intimidating course on the curriculum.

Instead, select something that genuinely interests you or feels manageable given your current schedule and responsibilities. Starting with a class that excites you can help rebuild your confidence and remind you why you decided to pursue further education.

If you're feeling nervous about your academic abilities after time away from school, consider beginning with a foundational course or one that relates to your current work experience.

3. Get credit for past work

Some adult learners have more educational credit than they realize. Before diving into a full course load, look into opportunities to earn credit for your professional experience, previous coursework, or certifications you've already completed.

Review old transcripts from any previous college coursework, even if you didn't complete a degree. Some schools accept transfer credits from accredited programs, which can save both time and money. Some programs also offer credit for relevant work experience or professional certifications through prior learning assessments or internship credits.

Check your program's specific requirements and policies regarding transfer credits and experiential learning. An academic advisor can help you understand what options are available and guide you through the application process for credit recognition.

4. Create a schedule that works for you

Successful adult learners don't just fit school into their existing schedule— they strategically plan when and how they'll engage with their coursework.

Consider your energy levels and existing commitments when planning study time. If you're mentally exhausted after work, weekend morning study sessions might be more productive than late-night cramming. If weekends are chaotic with family activities, lunch break study sessions or early morning routines might work better.

While you can adjust your schedule as you learn what works best, starting with a realistic plan sets you up for success. Remember that consistent, ongoing studying is more effective for building skills and retaining knowledge than intensive cramming sessions before exams.

5. Find your perfect workspace

Your study environment impacts your ability to focus and learn effectively. You may be able to study just fine with background noise in a coffee shop, for example, or you may find it too distracting.

Take time to identify where you work best before classes begin. Some adult learners thrive in the quiet of a home office. Libraries offer a middle ground with quiet spaces and reliable internet access. Some like the activity of a coffee shop.  Consider your specific needs: Will you need complete silence for reading and writing? Do you learn better with some background noise?

Also think about practical requirements. If you're taking online classes, you'll need quiet, private spaces with strong wifi for exams and video calls. Group projects may require spaces where you can participate in calls without disturbing others or being interrupted, so consider what works best for different situations.

6. Know what resources are available to you

Most educational institutions offer extensive support services for students, but adult learners often don't know these resources exist or feel hesitant to use them.

Familiarize yourself with your school's academic support services, which might include writing centers, tutoring programs, library resources, and technical support.

If your employer partners with EdAssist, you have access to additional exceptional resources designed specifically for adult learners. Our academic and financial coaches can help with everything from choosing the right programs to determining how to pay for classes that your education assistance benefits may not cover. These free one-on-one coaching sessions provide personalized guidance throughout your educational journey. Be sure to check your policy to see if coaching is included in your benefit.

7. Make sure you have what you need

Do you have the equipment, resources, and software you need to excel?

Make sure you have a reliable laptop or computer that meets your program's technical requirements. Test your internet connection speed and stability; slow or unreliable internet can cause significant stress during online exams or video conferences.

This goes beyond equipment, too.

For parents, having backup childcare arrangements may be essential. What happens if your regular babysitter cancels or your child is too sick for daycare on an important class day? Having a backup plan prevents these common occurrences from derailing your academic progress. Check to see if your employer offers the Bright Horizons backup care benefit.

8. Review your syllabus before classes start

You may receive access to your course syllabus before the semester begins. This document is your roadmap for the entire course, so use it strategically.

Immediately add all important dates to your calendar, including:

• Course start and end dates.
• Exam dates, project due dates.
• Presentation schedules.
• Any other significant deadlines.

This advance planning allows you to prepare for busy periods and avoid conflicts with work or family commitments. You may want to take a day off before a final exam to prepare, for example, or you may need to take PTO for an in-person exam.

Look for patterns in the workload. Are there weeks that will be particularly demanding? Can you get ahead on reading during lighter periods? This advance planning is especially crucial for adult learners who can't always adjust other responsibilities to accommodate unexpected academic demands.

9. Meet your advisor

Your academic advisor is one of your most valuable resources, yet many adult learners don't take full advantage of this relationship.

Schedule a meeting with your advisor early in your program to discuss your academic goals, course sequencing, and any concerns about balancing education with other responsibilities. Advisors can help you understand program requirements, plan course schedules that work with your lifestyle, and identify potential challenges before they become problems.

If you have questions about class availability, prerequisite requirements, or program policies, your advisor can provide clarity and help you make informed decisions about your educational path.

10. Plan for the unexpected

Life happens, and adult learners need contingency plans for when things don't go according to schedule.

What's your backup plan if you get sick during finals week? How will you handle technology failures during an important online exam? Know your school's policies regarding extensions, makeup exams, and emergency withdrawals before you need them.

Keep emergency contact information for your professors, academic advisor, and technical support easily accessible. Understanding these policies and having backup plans reduces stress when unexpected situations arise.

11. Set realistic expectations

Returning to school after years in the workforce is a significant transition, and it's normal for the first semester to feel overwhelming.

Expect a learning curve as you readjust to academic thinking, new technology platforms, and different communication styles. Remember that B grades are excellent achievements for working adults managing multiple responsibilities—perfectionism can become a barrier to success.

Plan to celebrate small wins along the way. Completing your first assignment, passing your first exam, or simply surviving your first week back in school are all meaningful accomplishments worth acknowledging.

Returning to school for your continued education journey

Returning to school is a significant decision that requires careful planning, but with the right preparation, you can set yourself up for success from day one. This checklist addresses the practical considerations that can make or break your educational experience, but remember that you don't have to navigate this journey alone.

Whether you're just beginning to consider further education or you're ready to register for classes, take advantage of the resources available to you. If your employer partners with EdAssist, our comprehensive support services can help guide you through every step of this process, from initial planning through graduation and beyond.

Want more resources for adult learners? Check out our blog here, and visit the LevelUp Studio for live and on-demand webinars!