Really the only way to go back to school is to just do it. It sounds trite, but you’'ll consistently come up with reasons and obstacles to not go back this semester. I know I did. And personally, I’m a fan of community college. Lots of state uni’s have transfer agreements with community colleges so that the transfer process will be easy and you’ll be admitted into your major as a junior. Typically there are financial incentives as well.
And plus, community college is not intimidating and sometimes you will find the best teachers at community college. Not too mention smaller classes sizes and therefore more likely to get one on one time with the instructor.
As for financial aid, as another person said, you can get all your college education paid for by the gov if you are old enough (no one can claim you), and if you dont make very much money.
I dropped out of two colleges by the time I was 20. I went because that’s what everyone did at my school but when I got there I didn’t care or have a clue what I was doing. So I dropped out and moved to SF. In Spring 2009 at 34, I signed up for classes at a community college and have been in love with school ever since. Between the PellGrant & MassGrant & tuition waivers, school hasn’t cost me more than gas money. Now I know why I am in school and I’m rocking a killer gpa in a major I used to think I couldn’t hack and thinking about going for a masters.
You’re education is less about the brand and more about what you do with the opportunity.
As for life experience - it’s a tough sell to schools and you’ll have to justify why it’s equivalent to a course or courses and you’ll probably have to pay a life experience credit fee. Personally, I think it’s more paperwork than it’s worth especially when I’ve been lucky enough (or is that poor enough) to not have to pay for my education so far.
kevin