Mature Student University Entry: Steps To Take

Thinking of going to university as a mature student? In the UK, a mature student is anyone starting an undergraduate degree aged 21 or above, and they make up around a third of all undergraduates. If you're thinking of applying, you'll need to consider your personal circumstances, your ideal study environment, and the support available at different institutions.

You'll follow the same application process as younger students, by creating a profile in UCAS Track, uploading a personal statement and choosing up to five courses. However, the entry requirements may be different. If you don't have the necessary A-levels or equivalent, you can look at alternative ways of meeting entry requirements, such as an Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma or foundation courses.

You can also apply for funding as a mature student, including government loans for student finance and scholarships.

Entry requirements for mature students

The entry requirements for mature students can vary across universities and courses. While some universities will accept professional qualifications or relevant work experience, others may require specific academic qualifications. Here are the key points to keep in mind:

• Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma: This is a common route for mature students who want to pursue a university education. The Access to HE Diploma is designed for students who left education without the necessary qualifications to enter higher education. It provides a pathway to gain the required qualifications for university entry.
• Foundation courses: Foundation courses are ideal if you've taken a break from education and want to get up to speed with the subject you plan to study at university. These courses can help bridge any academic gaps and improve your chances of meeting entry requirements.
• Alternative qualifications: Some universities may accept other types of qualifications, such as NVQs, BTECs, or other work-based qualifications. They might also consider older qualifications like O-levels or Open University credits.
• Work experience: If you have extensive work experience in your field, this can be a valuable asset when applying as a mature student. Universities often look for evidence of personal and professional development, demonstrating your commitment to learning and your ability to apply yourself in an academic setting.
• Personal statement: The personal statement is a crucial aspect of your application. It allows you to share your story, motivations, and reasons for applying as a mature student. Be honest, insightful, and personal in your statement, explaining why you want to pursue a specific program and your ability to transition back to an academic environment.
• Recommendation letters: Securing recommendation or reference letters can be challenging as a mature student. Consider approaching employers (past or present), teachers, or personal acquaintances who can speak to your character, work ethic, and motivations. Discuss your chosen field of study and your goals to provide them with context and insight.
• Recognition of prior learning: If you have previous work or study experience, you may be able to claim recognition of prior learning and gain exemptions for certain subjects. This can help you graduate faster, but you'll need to provide evidence, such as academic transcripts or letters from employers.
• Flexible entry requirements: Many universities have more flexible entry requirements for mature applicants, especially those who didn't study formal modern qualifications. They value the contributions that mature students bring to the classroom and recognise their life experiences and skills.
• Foundation year: If you've been out of education for an extended period, some universities may require you to complete a foundation year before starting your degree. This year-long course will help develop your academic and critical thinking skills and improve your time management abilities, which are essential when balancing study and work commitments.

Remember that the definition of a "mature student" can vary between universities. While most universities consider anyone over the age of 21 as a mature student, some universities set the threshold at 19 or 23 years of age. Additionally, mature students are typically those who are returning to education after a break or starting an undergraduate degree at an older age.

Application process

The application process for mature students depends on the course and university you're applying to. If you're applying for a full-time course, you'll need to do your research and apply for courses online through the UCAS website. For flexible and part-time courses, you'll usually apply directly to the universities and colleges themselves.

If you're applying to a UK university, you'll follow the same application process as younger students, creating a profile in UCAS Track, uploading a personal statement, and choosing up to five courses. You'll also have the same application deadlines. The main difference is the entry requirements. If you don't have the necessary A Levels or equivalent, you can look at alternative ways of meeting entry requirements, such as:

• Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma: for students who don't have the qualifications needed to enter higher education.
• Foundation courses: to get up to speed with the subject if you've had time away from education.

If you're applying to university in Ontario, you'll need to apply through the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC) system, using the OUAC 105 application type. Deadlines are set by each school, but it's recommended to submit your application a couple of weeks before the school's deadline. OUAC applications consist of your academic background, work experience, personal statement, program choices, extracurricular activities, and academic transcripts.

If you're applying for an undergraduate course and don't have a strong academic history, you can get into your chosen course by first completing a few standalone undergraduate subjects that don't have entry requirements.

If you're applying for a postgraduate course and have at least five years of professional experience in your field, you may be able to claim recognition of prior learning and skip subjects you're already familiar with. You'll need to provide evidence of this experience, such as an academic transcript or a letter from your employer.

Preparing Your Application

When preparing your application, it's important to look at the entry requirements for your chosen course and consider if you're eligible for recognition of prior learning. If you don't meet the entry requirements, don't panic. Many universities have more flexible requirements for mature applicants, and some don't need any formal qualifications at all, instead considering your employment history and work experience.

If you're applying through UCAS, you'll need to provide details of your previous qualifications and/or work experience. If you're applying through OUAC, your application should include any professional work experience you have, especially if your academic experience is weaker. Universities are looking for evidence of personal and professional development and your commitment to learning.

The personal statement is a key part of your application. This is where you can share your story and motivations for applying as a mature student. Be honest, personal, and insightful, and explain why you want to study a specific program. It's a good idea to provide evidence of recent academic studies or learning experiences to show you can transition back into an academic environment.

Recommendation letters or reference letters are another important component of your application. If you're applying through UCAS, these usually come from academic sources. If you don't have access to academic referees, contact the school directly to discuss your options. If you're applying through OUAC, you can ask employers, teachers, or personal acquaintances for recommendation letters.

After Applying

Once you've submitted your application, the next steps depend on the university and application process. If you're applying through UCAS Clearing, you'll need to call your chosen universities to see if they'll accept you. If they think you're a good fit, they'll give you a verbal offer over the phone, which you'll then add to your UCAS account to accept.

If you're applying directly to the university, you may need to fill out a Record of Prior Acceptance (RPA) form to confirm your offer acceptance. The university will then send you a letter confirming your place and outlining the next steps.

Finance and Accommodation

As a mature student, you may be eligible for student finance and other benefits, such as a Childcare Grant or Parent's Learning Allowance. It's important to apply for student finance as soon as possible after receiving your offer to ensure you receive your loans on time.

If you're planning to relocate, accommodation will be a significant factor in your application. Many universities guarantee a place in their student halls of residence for all first-year students, including mature students applying through Clearing. However, not all universities do this, so it's important to speak with the accommodation team before accepting an offer.

Funding and finance options

Tuition Fee Loans

Tuition Fee Loans cover the cost of your undergraduate course fees and are paid directly to the university or college. There is no age limit on these loans, and anyone can apply as long as the course is their first undergraduate degree. The amount that universities and colleges can charge for undergraduate tuition fees to full-time UK and EU students is set by the governments in each country.

Maintenance Loans and Grants

Maintenance Loans and Grants help with living costs, such as food, accommodation, and travel. The amount you can get is based on factors like where and what you'll study, whether you plan to study full-time or part-time, and your household income.

Postgraduate Funding

Getting funding for postgraduate study may not be as straightforward as for undergraduate study, but options are available. The finance and funding available for postgraduate teacher training courses vary depending on where in the UK you plan to study.

Scholarships and Bursaries

Many universities and colleges offer scholarships or bursaries. Check their individual websites or speak to student services directly to find out more.

Additional Grants and Support

Extra support may be available for applicants with children or dependants, or those with a disability, long-term health condition, mental health condition, or learning difficulty. This includes the Parents' Learning Allowance, Childcare Grant, Adult Dependants' Grant, and Disabled Students' Allowance.

Course and university selection

Understanding Your Options:

Firstly, it's important to know that you have a wide range of options available. You can pursue an undergraduate or postgraduate course, and within these categories, there are different types of degrees and study modes to suit your needs.

Undergraduate vs. Postgraduate:

If you haven't studied at the university level before and want to earn your first qualification, an undergraduate course is the right choice. On the other hand, if you already have a bachelor's degree or significant professional experience, you may be suited for a postgraduate qualification like a master's degree.

Types of Degrees:

The most popular type is the bachelor's degree, typically lasting three years as a full-time option and offered with or without honours. You can also choose a joint or combined honours bachelor's degree, allowing you to study two subjects simultaneously.

If you're looking for a more vocational and work-related qualification, you might consider an HNC, HND, or foundation degree. These degrees are worth one or two years of a bachelor's degree and can be 'topped up' later.

Study Modes:

Most courses offer full-time and part-time options. Full-time courses are ideal if you want to focus solely on your studies and graduate faster. However, if you have other commitments like work or childcare, part-time study can provide more flexibility.

Online Learning:

Another option to consider is online learning. This mode of study offers exceptional flexibility, allowing you to study from anywhere and at any time. It's an excellent choice if you need to balance your education with a full-time job or family commitments.

University Factors to Consider:

When selecting a university, there are several factors to keep in mind:

• Location: Most mature students opt for a local university to live at home while studying. However, if you're willing to relocate, you can explore universities in different areas that appeal to you or have a more substantial mature student population.
• Student Support: Mature students often require different support services than traditional-age students. Research universities that offer dedicated mature student support officers, childcare facilities, and family-sized accommodation.
• Entry Requirements: University entry requirements vary. Some institutions accept professional qualifications or work experience, while others may require specific academic qualifications. Check the requirements for your desired course and whether your work experience or previous qualifications meet these criteria.
• Open Days: Attend open days or virtual open days to learn more about the university, ask questions, and determine if it's the right fit for you.
• Course Fees and Funding: Course fees can be a significant consideration for mature students, especially those with other financial commitments. Research the fees for your desired course and explore funding options, including scholarships and government incentives specifically for mature students.

Shortlisting and Finalising Your Choice:

Once you've considered the above factors, create a shortlist of universities and courses that align with your interests, commitments, and goals. Utilise online tools and platforms to research and compare different universities and courses. Reach out to the universities' admissions teams if you have specific questions or attend open days to gain a better understanding of what they offer. Finally, don't forget to consider the application deadlines and start preparing your application well in advance.

Remember, choosing the right course and university is a personal decision that depends on your unique circumstances. Take your time to evaluate your options, and don't be afraid to seek advice or support throughout the process.

Student support

Mature students are a diverse group with differing commitments and circumstances. Many balance their studies with work or family responsibilities. As such, universities recognise that mature students require a different kind of support to 18-year-olds who have recently finished school.

Most universities will offer childcare facilities on campus, and many have dedicated mature student support officers as part of their students' union to provide emotional and practical support. Some universities also have family-sized accommodation in halls of residence.

If you are a mature student with a job, you might have to sacrifice your salary (or part of it) to study. Ask yourself how important it is for you to get a degree. Do you need it to progress professionally or retrain for a new industry? Is there a cheaper, quicker way to gain the expertise?

If you have children, you may be able to access additional support while studying. In the UK, for example, mature students can apply for a Childcare Grant and/or a Parent's Learning Allowance.

If you are an independent, married, or common-law mature student, or a sole support parent, you may qualify for free tuition if your annual income is below a certain threshold. In Ontario, for example, this threshold is $50,000 per year.

Mature students can also benefit from grants and childcare support funding through the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP).

Application and Entry Requirements

Entry requirements vary from university to university. Some universities will accept professional qualifications or relevant work experience. Others may require:

• An Access to Higher Education course
• NVQs, BTECs, or other work-based qualifications

Some universities do not require any qualifications. The Open University, for example, is open to everyone.

If you don't meet the entry requirements for your course, don't panic. There are often alternative routes to gaining entry. For example, you can complete a few standalone undergraduate subjects that don't have entry requirements.

Student Finance

Mature students can apply for the same student loans and maintenance loans as younger students. In addition, mature students with children may be eligible for extra financial support.

Frequently asked questions