OLLI
Lifelong learning at universities near you.
What is OLLI?
- Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes.
- Funded by Bernard Osher Foundation.
- 120+ programs at universities across US.
- Designed specifically for adults 50+.
- No tests, no grades, no homework required.
- Just learning for joy + community.
Cost
- Annual membership: $50–$200.
- Then unlimited or low-cost classes.
- Some programs free with membership.
- Compare to single university course at $2,000+.
- Best value for in-person learning anywhere.
- Scholarships often available.
Class topics
- History — local, world, military, social.
- Literature + book discussions.
- Music appreciation + jazz history.
- Current events + politics.
- Art history + studio classes.
- Languages, philosophy, science, more.
Format
- Most classes 4–8 weekly sessions.
- 1–2 hours each meeting.
- In-person, online, or hybrid.
- Some include field trips.
- Mostly retired professionals teaching.
- Discussion-based, not lecture-only.
Find OLLI near you
- Go to OsherFoundation.org.
- Search by your state.
- 120+ programs across US.
- Most major universities have one.
- Or call: ask local university about lifelong learning.
- Often has "Encore" or "Senior" programs by other names.
Social benefits
- Meet other curious retirees.
- Form lifelong friendships.
- Reduces loneliness — proven research.
- Many couples take classes together.
- Often coffee + lunch gatherings.
- Best of both — learning + community.
Best-kept secret in retirement
OLLI is one of the best-kept secrets for active retirees. For about $100/year you can take dozens of college-level courses with peers your age. The instructors are often retired professors who teach for the love of it. Visit OsherFoundation.org and find your nearest program. Many people say OLLI made retirement vastly more fulfilling than they expected.