How Old Are College Students

So, you're wondering how old college students are, huh? Well, let me tell you, it's not just a bunch of fresh-faced 18-year-olds running around campus. The truth is, the age range of college students can vary greatly, with some students starting as young as 17 and others going back to school in their 50s and 60s - yes, you read that right, 60s!

But, on average, the typical college student is around 20-22 years old, which is usually a sophomore or junior in college. Now, you might be thinking, "Wait, isn't college just for young people?" And to that, I say, not necessarily. With the rise of online learning and non-traditional students, people of all ages are going back to school to get their degree.

The Age Range of College Students

So, what's the age range of college students, you ask? Well, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2019, about 34% of college students were under the age of 20, while about 23% were 25 or older. And, surprisingly, about 10% of college students were over the age of 35 - that's right, 35! Who says you can't teach an old dog new tricks?

Now, you might be wondering, what about the oldest college student? Well, according to Guinness World Records, the oldest person to graduate from college was a woman named Nola Ochs, who graduated from Fort Hays State University at the ripe age of 95! I mean, can you imagine being in a class with someone who's older than your grandparents?

But, in all seriousness, the age range of college students is becoming more and more diverse, with people of all ages and backgrounds pursuing higher education. And, with the help of technology, it's becoming easier for people to go back to school and get their degree, regardless of their age. So, whether you're 18 or 80, it's never too late to become a college student - just don't expect to be the life of the party if you're in your 80s!

"Traditional" college students are not disappearing | Urban Institute

So, what's the takeaway from all this? Well, for starters, the age range of college students is a lot broader than you might think. And, with more and more people going back to school, it's becoming clearer that age is just a number - especially when it comes to learning. So, whether you're a traditional student or a non-traditional student, remember that it's never too late to pursue your dreams and get your degree.

In fact, many colleges and universities are now offering programs specifically designed for non-traditional students, such as online courses, part-time programs, and even degree completion programs. And, with the help of financial aid and scholarships, it's becoming more and more affordable for people of all ages to go back to school. So, if you're thinking about becoming a college student, don't let your age hold you back - just go for it!

And, finally, let's talk about the benefits of having a diverse age range in college. For one, it allows for different perspectives and experiences to be shared in the classroom, which can be a huge benefit for students of all ages. Plus, it shows that learning is a lifelong process, and that it's never too late to pursue your passions and interests. So, the next time you're in a class with someone who's older or younger than you, just remember - age is just a number, and learning is for everyone!