Think it through and research as much as possible. Figure out the reasons you want to go to school and decide if your life is ready for that change. Picking the wrong time to return to school can lead to failure, so avoid especially hectic times to go back to school. These times may include having a new baby, moving to a new town, or getting a new job. Make sure that you will be able to find private time for yourself. Studying in the kitchen while a family of four runs around you, interrupting and asking millions of questions, is not effective.
Talk to your family and friends; you're going to need their support. It's important to make your closest family and friends part of your decision making process. In the end, the decision is yours but you're going to need their help. Discuss ways to reorganize your life so you're able to attend school. Keep in mind that actually attending classes isn't the only part that takes time. You'll need time for studying (including assignments), traveling back and forth between school, and the classes themselves.
If you're employed, talk to your boss and find out if your company has any education benefits. When you sit down with your boss, find out how she feels about you returning to school. If you are looking to continue to work, it's important to know that your employer will support your decision to return to school. If that means giving you less hours or being flexible with your schedule, make sure that they are okay with this ahead of time. Again, make sure to check with your boss or your human resources department to see if your company offers any benefits for employees returning to school, such as tuition reimbursement or other monetary incentives.
Look into other financial options. Do research on scholarships, grants and student loans. Receiving financial assistance for college is not limited to just graduating high school students. Many companies, organizations, banks and schools want to encourage adult learners to return to school and may be willing to provide financial assistance.
Pick a school and a program and apply. Location is often the lead selling point for most colleges and universities when it comes to adult learners. It isn't as easy for an adult to pick up and move to any city in any part of the world just to go to school. Be realistic with your commute, because the longer it takes to get to and from school, the less time you have to spend with your family, friends or at work. Online classes are always an option, but many programs cannot be offered or completed online.