This article examined the provisions which limit participation of adult learners in federal student aid programs and explores possible modifications in existing federal student aid programs, primarily the new Basic Educational Opportunity Grant program, that might accommodate adult learners. (BR)

The effectiveness and efficiency of procedures employed by the federal government and participating education institutions to operate and manage the campus based and Basic Educational Opportunity Grant assistance programs are evaluated. Information was obtained by mail surveys of 756 colleges and universities. An overview is presented of the…