Experiences of 60 women over 30 years old who returned to college after being out of school at least four years were studied. Thirty graduates and 30 undergraduate students were interviewed. Institutional barriers women confront include inadequate student services, limitations on financial aid, and admission practices and screening procedures discriminating against older students or women. Student experiences about the following are discussed: faculty/staff attitudes to older re-entry women, nontraditional credits, scheduling and other academic reforms, academic counseling, and special services. Situational barriers include unfamiliarity with the system, financial need, time management and role strain, child care, rusty skills and inadequate preparation. Support of the women's reentry family and friends, commuting, health and fatigue, and problems of guilt and anxiety are considered. Policy recommendations, a list of interview questions, and statistical data concerning respondents are included. (SW)