Cognitive profile analysis of 14 rural case studies follows precisely the distribution curve found in comparison groups, in terms of the number of adults falling into each of three profile types. Regardless of age, approximately 10% are found in Type 1 and 3 categories and 80% within the Type 2 profile category (Type 1 is significantly associated with high achievement levels in academic performance, Type 2 is significantly associated with average academic performance, and Type 3 is significantly associated with low achievement levels). Given opportunity for academic experiences, these rural adults would perform as well as any other group of students in terms of achievement. Among several factors which must be taken into consideration for an adult population in general and a rural population in particular are: any assumption that adults are not capable of profiting from formal educational settings is fallacious, except for that approximately 10% of the population whose cognitive profiles militate against achievement; and, for the rural adult population, regardless of the content, mode of presentation, or level of sophistication, the information must be brought to these students in their local communities and at times which do not severely disrupt their normal daily activities. Three profile examples are included. (BRR)