More institutions are recognizing the need for effective adult learner recruitment, re-enrollment, and retention strategies. But how can schools evaluate their current efforts and identify where to improve?

ReUp’s institutional assessment is designed to help you do exactly that — evaluating your current adult learner strategies and providing a roadmap to strengthen them. Here’s a look at why the key considerations in the assessment matter, and what they reveal about your institution’s approach.

Strategic planning and resource allocation

One of the foundational questions in the assessment asks whether adult learners are included in your institution’s strategic plan. This isn’t just a policy question — it’s a reflection of commitment. Institutions that prioritize adult learners in their strategic planning are better positioned to allocate necessary resources, set realistic goals for degree completion, and create an environment where this population can thrive.

Case study: The University of Idaho (U of I) made increasing its adult learner population a strategic goal — both to align with its students-first mission and to drive social and economic mobility across the state. Working with ReUp, U of I expanded its adult learner outreach significantly, capturing feedback, motivations, and obstacles to offer tailored support. Since the partnership began, nearly 565 adult learners have re-enrolled and 248 have completed their degrees.

Distinct outreach strategies

Does your institution use a single approach for all students? If so, you’re likely missing meaningful opportunities to connect with adult learners. They juggle careers, family obligations, and financial pressures — and a one-size-fits-all outreach strategy won’t reflect that reality.

Tailored communication, re-orientation sessions, flexible scheduling, and personalized support can significantly improve engagement and retention for this population.

Reflect on this: Is your adult learner outreach strategy distinct from your traditional student outreach? If not, that’s a meaningful place to start.

Research and data-driven insights

How often does your team research adult learner trends? Understanding what drives adult learners — and what barriers stand in their way — is a cornerstone of effective engagement. It informs strategy, demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement, and helps institutions adapt to evolving learner needs.

Case study: Chicago State University lacked visibility into what their adult learners were thinking, where they were in their life journey, and what challenges they were facing. By partnering with ReUp, they gained actionable insights that created ripple effects across the entire institution — from enrollment services to marketing to academic affairs — sparking conversations about how every aspect of the student experience could be viewed through the lens of an adult learner.

 Support systems and accessibility

The assessment asks whether your institution has dedicated support systems for adult learners — specialized advisors, resource centers, and mental health services. These aren’t optional add-ons. They are essential components of a supportive educational environment.

Access to advisors and coaches who understand adult learners can make the difference between a learner persisting to graduation and stopping out again.

Example in practice: At the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, a ReUp partner, every adult and returning learner receives a welcome email from the adult student enrollment counselor that includes an invitation to meet. Learners are often referred to the university’s Center for Adult and Returning Students (CARS) by faculty and staff when additional support is needed. CARS addresses academic advising, scheduling, career development, and financial support needs — all under one roof.

 Feedback and continuous improvement

Actively seeking and acting on feedback from adult learners creates a culture of openness and continuous improvement. Regular input can guide policy refinement and program development, ensuring your institution remains responsive to the needs of this population.

Reflect on this: How does your institution currently gather feedback from adult learners? Listening and responding to their insights is one of the most direct ways to drive meaningful change.

Ready to see where your institution stands?

Take ReUp’s institutional assessment to evaluate your current adult learner strategies and identify your next steps.

 A catalyst for growth

The questions in the institutional assessment are more than a reflection — they’re a catalyst for meaningful change. By working through them, your institution can uncover current strengths, identify gaps, and develop strategies that better serve adult learners. That kind of intentional approach benefits not just returning students, but your entire academic community.

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