US grandfather graduates university 50 years after he started studying

Donning a cap and gown and walking out in front of friends and family to graduate is a privilege at any age, but one man has done it at 86. 

The US grandfather received a Master of Science degree, 50 years after he started studying for it. 

Leo Benatar began the diploma at Georgia Tech in Atlanta in 1954, but left two years later because he had completed all the credits he needed. 

The only thing he lacked was a professor to hear his dissertation. 

Eight years later, the requirements for obtaining a diploma changed, meaning he didn’t need to do a dissertation and could qualify to graduate. 

It then took him close to 50 years to confirm with the university he was eligible. 

"When I realised I wanted to graduate and get my degree, I kept talking to the school for months and months, but because there was no electronic record and only a paper trail it was very hard for them to figure out if I had actually qualified or not," he told US TODAY. 

But his luck then changed, albeit a tad slowly, and Mr Benatar received a call to tell him he could graduate. Last week, he did just that. 

"I couldn't believe my ears," he said. 

The grandfather also said he hoped his accomplishment inspired others to finish what they start. 

"At any age, you can get more education," Mr Benatar said. 

"At any time, you can get more learning done. And any experience in the classroom is beneficial. 

"I've heard from former friends that hadn't been in touch with me for years," he added. 

"And I've had the satisfaction of knowing I really can inspire others, too." 

Mr Benatar also said his children have encouraged him to write a new resume now that he has the new degree. 

"To anyone that runs into obstacles, just persevere…if it's important, don't give up,” he said. 

“If it wasn't important, you would never have started it in the first place."