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Mount Wachusett Community College is offering free workshops this spring for adult learners interested in earning a college degree.

MWCC’s Adult College Experience (ACE) program features hands-on workshops designed to guide adult learners through the steps of applying for college and financial aid, selecting courses, managing coursework and balancing school with work and family life. Participants attending all four workshops will be eligible to win a free, three-credit course.

“Each year, millions of adult students return to college to expand their career options, change careers, or fulfill a long-held dream of earning a degree. We developed the ACE program at Mount Wachusett to provide students with a roadmap to follow to make their transition to higher education as seamless as possible,” said Marcia Rosbury-Henne, Dean of Admissions and Enrollment.

The four-session ACE program, geared toward adult learners age 24 and above, begins Thursday, March 17 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. with the workshop “Beginning Your College Journey.” During this workshop, students will be admitted to an academic program for the summer or fall 2016 semesters. This workshop will also include a session on accessing library and academic support, as well as a panel presentation by MWCC alumni who returned to college as adult learners balancing work, family and studies.

The second session, “Navigating the ‘Net for College Success,” will take place Thursday, March 24 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Participants will learn about digital tools, including iConnect and Blackboard, that connect to courses, faculty and campus resources. Students will learn about the components of their financial aid package, including knowing the difference between loans, grants, scholarships and work study aid, and receive assistance completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form.

The session, “Foundations for Success,” will take place Thursday, March 31 from 5 to 8 p.m. Participants will have the opportunity to take their Accuplacer placement test, review previous college transcripts with an advisor, and plan their academic path.

The series concludes on Thursday, April 7 with the session “Build Your Future from 5:30 to 7 p.m. During this final session, students will register for fall semester courses. The session will end with a pizza party celebration and a drawing for a free, three-credit course.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, enrollment of students age 25 and above increased by 42 percent between 2000 and 2010 and is predicted to increase by another 20 percent by 2020. In comparison, enrollment of college students age 24 and under increased by 34 percent between 2000 and 2010, and is expected to increase 11 percent by 2020.

To register for MWCC’s free ACE program, contact the admissions office at 978-630-9110 or email . Registration can also be completed online at mwcc.edu/build/ace.

MWCC offers over 70 associate degree and certificate programs, transfer agreements with public and private colleges and universities for students continuing on for a bachelor’s degree, adult basic education/HiSET programs, industry and technology training, and personal enrichment programs. The college is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and other industry-specific accrediting organizations. Amenities for students and the public include the Fitness & Wellness Center, Theatre at the Mount, and the LaChance Library.