The path to a bachelor’s degree can vary greatly from student to student, especially when life takes unexpected turns. Those whose college journey may have been paused or interrupted now have an opportunity to return to school and receive financial support.
The University of Louisville recently launched Comeback Cards – a program that offers up to $4,000 of debt forgiveness to returning students.
Funded by the Gheens Foundation, the UofL Office of Admissions has developed a plan that carries out the university’s strategic goals for reaching the “some college, no degree” population. Through it, eligible former UofL students can apply for a grant that will help them complete their remaining educational pursuits.
“As of 2020, there are more than 118,000 adults aged 25+ just in Jefferson County with some college and no degree and nearly 625,000 in Kentucky,” said Hannah White, assistant director of adult services. “There are so many reasons for this – life happens. Many stop due to lack of an alignment with their degree program or university, or due to the difficulty of balancing family, work, life and more with school. We also know that finances and student debt play a huge role.
“Eligible students must have been away from college for a minimum of two academic years and must owe a balance of $4,000 or less on their UofL account. Comeback Card grant recipients can earn up to $1,000 per semester if they complete program requirements. Already 60 participants have taken advantage of the grant, and the Office of Admissions hopes to grow that number.”
“The program provided the motivation I needed to return and complete my degree; it’s incredibly fulfilling to know that I’m finishing something I started years ago,” said Ashley Arkels, a participant in Comeback Cards. “Being a first-generation college graduate, I now fully understand the impact of education — not just for myself, but for my family and future generations.”
Comeback Cards is only one of the many opportunities offered by the Transfer & Adult Student Services team, along with numerous university-wide resources to support non-traditional students.
“We offer over 60+ online programs — designed with adult learners in mind — with some even offering college credit for work, life, or military experience,” White said. “This new program aligns with our university’s goals and responds to an unmet need within post-secondary education.”
To apply for the grant, fill out the Comeback Cards interest form at https://apply.louisville.edu/register/comeback-cards.
