If you're unemployed, it may be the perfect time to enter or re-enter school.

There is a host of financial aid programs out there, that aren't based upon your credit score. Just check with financial aid with the school that you want to attend. Remember, you are no longer restricted to brick and mortar schools. If you are very self-disciplined, there are many virtual or online well-respected colleges and universities to choose from.

5 Reasons

1. Improve existing skills to further advance in your current field.

2. Learn an entirely new career to open up job options.

3. Federal Work Study. Many of the schools offer Federal Work Studies in which they have jobs at the school or partner with local businesses within the community. You can earn money and gain experience.

4. Many colleges and universities offer some sort of health insurance that you may be able to purchase.

5. Jobs fairs and Job placement. Reputable colleges and universities have existing relationships with other businesses. In fact, you will often see these schools advertise their success rate.

You are never too old to re-enter the world of academics. Time is going to pass whether you enroll or not. You don't have to go full time, but most financial aid programs require that you attend halftime (usually two classes).