Who is an Adult Learner?

Historically, an adult learner/non-traditional student is someone who is pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, but who does not meet the definition of a “traditional” college student. If you feel that any of the following describe you . . . then you are considered an adult learner/non-traditional student at Illinois State.

I am . . .

• An independent student;
• Employed full-time;
  
• A person with dependents;
  
• A person who as a result of a death or divorce, is now single and wishes to complete a degree program;
  
• A commuter student (you live off-campus) and will commute to campus to attend class; or
  
• A veteran of the United States military who has returned to the civilian world after serving in the armed forces.

The former Adult Learner Services Task Force created by the University describes Adult Learners as undergraduate or graduate students that are:

• lifelong learners who generally are 25 years or older, and/or have additional responsibilities such as family, career, military, or community, and are seeking a degree or other educational offering (credit or non-credit) to enhance their professional and/or personal lives.

Adult Learner Services Statistics

Each semester at Illinois State University, 10% of the undergraduate student population is considered nontraditional students. This includes veterans of all ages, students-at-large, and students who are at least 25 years of age.

• 17% of nontraditional students indicated veteran status on their application for admission or financial aid form.
• 75% are full-time students and average around 14 hours enrolled.
• 55% of nontraditional students are male.
• Approximately, 17% of nontraditional students at Illinois State are from underrepresented groups.