Lori Meadows
Applying to university as a mature student in the UK is an exciting prospect, but it can also be a daunting one. A mature student is anyone starting university over the age of 21, and around a third of undergraduates in the UK are mature students. Mature students are a diverse group, with varying commitments, qualifications, and life experiences. The application process is similar to that of younger students, but there are some key differences to be aware of.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition of a mature student | Anyone starting university over the age of 21 |
| Application process | Same as younger students, via UCAS |
| Deadlines | 15 October 2024 (18:00 UK time) for 2025 entry courses at Oxford, Cambridge, medicine, veterinary medicine/science, and dentistry courses. 29 January 2025 (18:00 UK time) for 2025 entry courses for all other undergraduate courses. |
| Entry requirements | Vary by university, some accept professional qualifications or relevant work experience. |
| Qualifications | Some mature students may have few or no previous qualifications, but relevant life skills and work experience are considered. |
| Finances | Student loans, scholarships, Childcare Grant, Parents' Learning Allowances, Child Tax Credits, etc. |
| Accommodation | Guaranteed for all undergraduate students starting in September at the University of Dundee. The University of Greenwich guarantees accommodation for first-year students. |
| Support | Support for transition to university life, part-time and flexible degree programmes, one-to-one academic support, mature student societies, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Entry requirements
A 'mature student' is anyone starting university over the age of 21. Mature students are a diverse group with varying commitments and responsibilities. If you are a mature student, you will need to consider the feasibility of your degree, for example, if full-time study is not manageable, you may want to research part-time and evening courses or distance learning.
If you have been out of education for a while, it is a good idea to take another qualification to refresh your study skills. You will need to include a personal statement in your application, and you may be asked to provide a reference. It is worth noting that as a mature student, you are likely to be highly motivated and have clear career goals, transferable skills, and a good understanding of your learning style. You can include any relevant alternatives to qualifications gained through career or life experiences in your personal statement.
There are a number of funding options available for mature students, including government loans, scholarships, and grants. You may also be eligible for additional support, such as the Childcare Grant or Parents' Learning Allowances.
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Qualifications and experience
A mature student is anyone starting university over the age of 21. Qualifications and experience will differ from current school leavers, and you may not have followed a traditional route into higher education. Some mature students may have few or no previous qualifications, while others may have A-levels or other equivalent qualifications. If you don't have the necessary A-levels or equivalent qualifications for your course, you can look at alternative ways of meeting entry requirements. Universities differ in the number of mature students they accept and the amount of support they offer, so it's worth doing some research by visiting university websites and going to open days.
If you have been out of education for a while, you can ask a professional who knows you, such as an employer or colleague, to provide you with a reference. As a mature student, you are likely to be highly motivated and have clear career goals. You may have transferable skills gained through work, a good idea of how you learn, and be used to being independent. You may also have relevant life skills and work experience, which some universities will take into account as much as your academic qualifications. If you have no formal qualifications, don't let that stop you.
If you haven't done any formal study for longer than three years, it's a good idea to take another qualification to refresh your study skills. You can also include any supporting information, for example, relevant alternatives to qualifications through career or life experiences, in your personal statement on the application form.
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Application process
The application process for mature students is largely the same as for other students. However, mature students may have different considerations, commitments, and qualifications than younger students.
If you are applying to university as a mature student, you will need to submit your application by 15 October 2024 (18:00 UK time) for 2025 entry courses at Oxford, Cambridge, or most medicine, veterinary medicine/science, and dentistry courses. For 2025 entry courses for all other undergraduate courses, the deadline is 29 January 2025 (18:00 UK time). All undergraduate applications need to be made through UCAS, and you will need a reference for your undergraduate application. If you are applying through a college or another centre registered with UCAS, a tutor or careers adviser can provide a reference. If you have been out of education for a while, you can ask a professional who knows you, such as an employer or colleague, to provide a reference.
As a mature student, you may have transferable skills gained through work, a good idea of how you learn, and be used to being independent. However, you may still have questions about making the transition to university and getting back into the mindset of studying. It is a good idea to do some research by visiting university websites and going to open days. You can also get information and support from experienced students to help you with the transition to university.
When applying, you will need to include a personal statement in your application. You should include any supporting information, such as relevant alternatives to qualifications through career or life experiences. If you haven't done any formal study for longer than three years, it's a good idea to take another qualification to refresh your study skills.
Mature students are defined as those aged 21 or above at the start of their undergraduate degree. Around a third of undergraduates are mature students, and many universities offer scholarships aimed specifically at mature students.
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Finance and funding
As a mature student in the UK, you may have access to different types of financial support to fund your university education. Here is some information on finance and funding for mature students:
Tuition Fee Loans and Support:
- Tuition fee loans are available from the government to cover the full cost of your course. These loans are not means-tested, and you can apply for them regardless of your income or savings. The loan amount will be paid directly to your university, and you will only start repaying it after you graduate and earn above a certain threshold.
- Some universities may offer their own financial support packages for mature students, which could include fee waivers, scholarships, or bursaries. It's worth contacting the universities you're interested in to find out about any specific funding opportunities.
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Student life
University Culture: Embrace the university culture and take advantage of the numerous opportunities available to enhance your student experience. Get involved in extracurricular activities, join clubs or societies that align with your interests, and participate in social events to build a solid support network of friends and connections.
Time Management: Balancing academic commitments with other responsibilities is crucial for mature students. Effective time management is essential to succeed in your studies while also managing work, family, or other commitments. Develop a schedule that works for you, set realistic goals, and don't be afraid to seek support from your university's student services if needed.
Support Services: Universities offer a plethora of support services to assist mature students in their transition to higher education. Take advantage of academic advising, career guidance, and personal counselling services offered by the university to help you navigate any challenges and make informed decisions.
Study Skills: Adjusting to new ways of learning and studying may be part of the journey as a mature student. Develop and enhance your study skills, including note-taking, critical thinking, and research techniques, to excel in your academic pursuits. Many universities provide study skills workshops or resources tailored for mature students.
Financial Planning: Understanding the financial aspects of university life is important. Research the costs associated with tuition fees, living expenses, and course materials, and explore the financial support options available, such as scholarships, grants, or part-time work opportunities, to fund your studies. Effective financial planning will help you manage your budget and make confident decisions.
Residential Choices: Consider your preferences and needs when deciding between on-campus and off-campus accommodation. On-campus living offers convenience and a built-in community, while off-campus options provide more independence but require consideration of commute and additional living costs. Choose a residential option that aligns with your lifestyle and budget.
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Frequently asked questions
In the UK, a mature student is anyone starting university over the age of 21.
The application process is generally the same as for younger students. You will need to create a profile in UCAS Track, upload a personal statement, and choose up to five courses. However, the entry requirements may differ. If you don't have the necessary A-levels or equivalent qualifications, some universities will accept professional qualifications or relevant work experience.
Universities have a range of funding options to support mature students. Mature learners can apply for government loans and may be eligible for scholarships, the Childcare Grant, and Parents' Learning Allowances.
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