Should You Go Back to School? 20 Questions to Ask Yourself First

Dreaming of finishing that degree, changing careers, or leveling up in your industry? The thought of returning to school is an exciting one, promising fresh opportunities and the chance to reinvent yourself. Whether you’re eyeing a traditional degree program, a targeted boot camp, or an online certification, the decision isn’t just about education; it’s about shaping your future.

Education has the power to change lives. It can unlock doors that felt firmly shut, connect you with new people and ideas, and equip you with the skills to thrive in an evolving world. But the choice to go back to school is also a big commitment. It impacts your time, finances, and day-to-day life. To help you approach this decision with clarity and confidence, we’ve compiled a list of 20 essential questions designed to explore your goals, weigh the benefits, and consider any potential trade-offs.

By reflecting on these questions, you’ll be better equipped to decide whether education is the tool you need to take your next big step forward.

Why Consider Going Back to School?

Before jumping into the questions, it’s helpful to understand why going back to school might be the right choice for you. Here are some of the most common reasons people take this step:

1. Career Advancement

Certain career paths require advanced degrees or certifications for promotions or leadership roles. For example, an MBA might help you land a senior management position, while advanced certification could open doors in tech or healthcare.

2. Skill Development

Staying relevant in a fast-evolving job market often requires upskilling. Returning to school can teach you industry-specific tools, like coding languages or advanced accounting software, that strengthen your value as an employee.

3. Personal Fulfillment

Education doesn’t have to be career-focused. Some people return to school to explore passions, learn something new, or achieve a lifelong dream (like finishing a degree they previously couldn’t complete).

4. Opportunities in Emerging Fields

Fields like data science, AI, and renewable energy are growing rapidly. Returning to school might position you to enter these industries, which often require specialized training or certification.

5. Networking

College environments (both in-person and online) offer unmatched networking opportunities. Students often find peers, professors, and alumni can help open doors to internships, jobs, or collaborative projects.

20 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Going Back to School

To determine whether furthering your education is the right path for you, consider the following questions. These cover practical, emotional, and financial factors to help you approach the decision holistically.

Personal Goals

1. What are my primary reasons for going back to school?
   Define whether you’re aiming for a promotion, a career change, or personal growth. Prioritizing your “why” can clarify your path.

2. Are my goals purely career-oriented, or do they include personal fulfillment?
   If it’s the latter, make sure your program aligns with interests beyond professional advancement.

3. Am I prepared to commit to several months or years of focused study?
   Reflect on whether you’ll have the motivation and mental energy for the long haul.

4. Have I identified the type of program that fits my goals?
   For instance, if you need quick upskilling, boot camps may suit you better than a three-year degree program.

Financial Implications

1. How much will it cost?
   Tuition, books, and other fees can add up. It’s important to know the overall price tag.

2. Are there scholarships, grants, or loans available?
   Explore financial aid options and calculate how debt versus potential earnings will balance out.

3. Can I afford to pause or reduce my work income?
   If studying full-time, consider whether your savings or partner’s income will cover household expenses.

4. Will the investment pay off long-term?
   Research salary data. For example, will an advanced degree in your field justify the financial and time investment?

Time Commitment

1. How many hours a week will the program require?
   Balancing school with work, family, and leisure requires an honest assessment of your time.

2. Is a full-time or part-time program more realistic for me?
   While many schools offer flexibility, a traditional full-time schedule might still demand 35-40 hours per week of study.

3. Will I have to sacrifice hobbies, family events, or personal time?
   Be upfront about how additional responsibilities could shift your current lifestyle.

4. How will I manage any additional workload?
   Consider time management tools, setting aside dedicated study blocks, or revisiting your daily priorities to avoid burnout.

Career Aspirations

1. Will this degree or certification significantly impact my career?
   Speak to professionals in the field and review job descriptions to ensure the qualification you pursue is relevant.

2. Are there alternative paths to achieving the same goal?
   Sometimes, networking, portfolio-building, or online courses might achieve similar results more efficiently.

3. Do I need work experience in conjunction with my studies?
   For fields like nursing or teaching, hands-on experience is critical. Determine whether internships or residencies are required.

4. Will I gain access to companies or job markets through this program?
   Many schools maintain relationships with employers. Look into their placement rates or alumni success stories.

Life Balance

1. What support systems do I have in place?
   Whether it’s childcare, a dependable partner, or work that accommodates study time, support makes a difference.

2. Am I mentally and physically ready to take on this challenge?
   Assess your energy and health. If you’re nearing burnout, taking some time for self-care before enrolling could be wise.

3. How will this decision affect the people around me?
   Going back to school impacts family, friends, and colleagues. Open conversations can help manage expectations.

4. What’s my backup plan if things don’t go as expected?
   Know what steps you’ll take if you decide midway that the program isn’t a good fit.

Deciding to go back to school is deeply personal. By reflecting on the questions above, you can determine whether it’s the right move for you and how to make it work. Take time to research programs, speak to advisors or mentors, and weigh the benefits against potential sacrifices.

If you’re unsure where to start, consider reaching out to a career coach or exploring free online seminars related to your field. Education is a serious investment, but with careful planning, it can be a life-changing one.