Study says adult learners concerned about education costs

Study says adult learners concerned about education costs

According to a report commissioned by eLearners.com, a resource that connects prospective students with online courses, those who are planning to go back to school want to make sure they get a good deal on education.

Specifically, the survey found that for 95 percent of those not currently in school, the potential cost would be the biggest barrier to a return to higher education.

"Despite increases in Pell grants by the federal government, it appears that most people still believe that attending college is cost prohibitive," says Terrence Thomas, executive vice president of marketing for eLearners.com.

He adds that his website aims to challenge that perception by showing that online education - a flexible option particularly well-suited to parents or professionals who want to boost their credentials without neglecting other responsibilities - can also be cost-effective.

Studies show that college graduates earn about twice as much as those with only a high school diploma. Therefore, experts suggest that prospective students research the many scholarships and other funding opportunities that can help them achieve their goals.

ELearners.com cites College Board statistics which show that there is more than $143 billion in financial aid available to students enrolling in traditional and online colleges nationwide.