Adult Learners

Helping you meet your goals

Looking for a new direction in your career? Interested in completing your degree? Seeking career advancement through education? Want to enrich your life through learning? Whatever your reason for wanting to take college or graduate classes, you will find that IU South Bend is eager to help you meet your goals.

It’s easy to get started at IU South Bend. Please call 574.520.4839 to set up a meeting with one of our admissions counselors or apply online on your own. If you need help financing your education, we encourage you to apply for the financial aid and scholarships we offer to qualifying students. Many adult learners enjoy getting involved in campus activities and organizations. There’s something for every interest and ability.

IU South Bend also offers other helpful services including:

  • Career and degree discernment through the Career Services Office
  • Online and Hybrid/Blended degree and class offerings
  • Convenient classroom locations in South Bend & Elkhart
  • Tutoring services
  • Success coaching
  • A personal academic advisor to help you stay on track toward earning
    a degree
  • Scholarships for adult learners

We look forward to welcoming you to campus! Ready to apply?

Get Started Now!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do you have specific programs for adult students?

    We do not have specific programs for adult students. While some programs are more flexible than others, most students can schedule their courses in a way that is compatible with a work schedule and family or other personal obligations. Many adult students take advantage of some of our online coursework as well.

  • What if my high school or previous college record does not meet your academic standards?

    We have an adult appeal process for students over the age of 21 who do not meet our academic standards. This gives you the opportunity to explain your situation and offer additional information about your personal history including, but not limited to, work experience, military career, additional training or change in perspective. Placement exams, a written questionnaire, and an interview are required.

  • I went to high school a long time ago. Will I still need to provide an official transcript?

    Yes, all students must provide official transcripts from their high school. These can typically be obtained by calling the high school directly or the school district administrative offices. In rare cases where a school is no longer in service, academic records are maintained by the state. All documents must be official; they should come from the school in a sealed envelope or be sent directly to the school, if transmitted electronically.

  • Will I feel out of place in classes at IU South Bend?

    While the majority of our student body is comprised of traditionally-aged students, we do have a large number of adult students taking classes and completing degrees on our campus. We take pride in the diversity of our student body and appreciate the dynamic that students from multiple perspectives bring to the learning experience.

  • I was in the military. What resources do I have available?

    Our Office of Veteran Services is located in the Administration Building, Room 101. You can contact them by phone at 574-520-4115 or by email: veterans@iusb.edu. They can help service members and their families navigate and understand benefits, resolve VA education issues, and enhance the college experience.

  • Can I take classes without entering a degree or certificate program?

    Adult students who have earned a high school diploma may take non-degree coursework or participate in our professional development programs.

  • Do you offer any classes or degree programs completely online?

    Yes, IU offers a number of undergraduate and graduate classes and degree programs online. You can learn more about our online programs and support services here.

  • Do you have scholarships for adult students?

    Yes! All admitted students are encouraged to complete the Online Scholarship Application. The OSA provides students of all ages the opportunity to be considered for the greatest number of scholarships available at IU South Bend. Students completing the OSA will be considered for Institutional, Alumni, Departmental, and IU Foundation scholarships.

    In addition, eligible students are also automatically awarded the You Can. Go Back. grant through the Indiana Commission for Higher Education. 

  • How can I audit a class?

    You must first apply and be admitted as either a degree-seeking or non-degree seeking student. Then you may work with the Registrar to take your classes as an auditor. You’ll find more information here. 

  • Is there a Senior Citizen discount?

    IU offers a Senior Citizen Fee Remission to those who are eligible. You’ll find our guidelines here.