Problems and barriers to financial aid that commonly face women re-entering the educational system are identified, and ways in which higher education institutions can be more responsive to the financial needs of re-entry women students are suggested. A wide range of possible actions are identified so that institutions can pursue those most appropriate to their individual circumstances. The following institutional policies and practices are addressed: outreach to get information to potential re-entry women; communication among, and training of, campus personnel; red tape (forms, deadlines, and the application process); flexible financing (tuition deferrals and loan payment options); reduced tuition and other cost breaks; aid for part-time students; emergency assistance; other institutionally-funded financial aid; packaging student aid; lowering the cost of postsecondary education; and keeping records on how re-entry women fund their education. Information is presented on six major student assistance programs, how to determine college costs, additional sources of federal aid, sources of private funding, and assistance available for welfare recipients, the underemployed, and the unemployed. A list of resource materials is included. (SW)