Savanna Hoffman
Returning to education as a mature student can be daunting, but it's far from impossible. In the UK, a mature student is usually someone who is over 21 at the start of their undergraduate studies, or over 25 for postgraduate study. Mature students make up around a third of undergraduates and come from diverse backgrounds. Many universities welcome mature students and will consider your life experience as well as your academic qualifications. You can research universities' entry requirements online, and some may accept professional qualifications or work experience. Mature students can apply for funding, including government loans and scholarships.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition of a mature student | Typically, a mature student is someone who is over 21 years of age at the beginning of their undergraduate studies or over 25 years of age at the beginning of their postgraduate studies. |
| Number of mature students | Around a third of undergraduates are mature students. Over half of mature students are aged between 21 and 24, and around 40% are over 30. |
| Application process | Mature students can apply for full-time courses through the UCAS website and for flexible and part-time courses directly to the universities and colleges. The main difference in the application process is the entry requirements. |
| Entry requirements | Universities have more flexibility when assessing applications from mature students. Some universities will accept professional qualifications or relevant work experience. Mature students can also take Access courses to gain entry. |
| Funding | Mature students can apply for government loans for student finance, and some universities offer scholarships specifically for them. There are also other government incentives like the Childcare Grant and Parents' Learning Allowances. |
| Accommodation | Some universities, like the University of Greenwich, guarantee accommodation for first-year mature students. |
| Support | Universities offer support and resources to help mature students get used to studying again, such as essay formatting, critical thinking, and referencing. |
| Online courses | Online courses can be a good option for mature students as they do not require relocation and offer flexibility in choosing a course. |
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What You'll Learn
Entry requirements for mature students
The term 'mature student' typically refers to students who are over 21 at the beginning of their undergraduate studies or over 25 at the start of their postgraduate studies. Mature students often balance their studies with work or caring responsibilities and may have few or no previous qualifications.
If you don't have the necessary A-levels or equivalent qualifications, there are alternative ways to meet entry requirements. You may be able to take an Access to Higher Education course or equivalent to gain entry to university. Your life experience and work experience may also be considered as part of your application.
Mature students have more options when it comes to gaining access to university. For example, you can study from home with organisations such as the National Extension College or enrol in online courses without the need to relocate. Additionally, there is no upper age limit on getting a student loan for a master's degree or your first undergraduate degree in the UK.
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Funding and scholarships
Mature students can apply for government funding in the same way as younger students, but the amount received depends on personal circumstances. If you are under 59, your household income will be assessed based on your or your partner's income. If you are 60 or over, you can only get a loan for tuition fees and not living costs. If you already have a degree, you are not eligible for a government loan unless it is for specific vocational subjects such as teaching or healthcare.
There are also scholarships and grants available for mature students, including those offered by the universities themselves, as well as by third-party organisations. The Blackbullion Funding Hub is the UK's largest collection of scholarships, including some from top companies such as Amazon and Nationwide. Examples of scholarships for mature students include the Mature Students Scholarship at Goldsmith's College, University of London, and the Access Entry Mature Students Bursary at Royal Holloway.
Universities also have their own scholarship programmes, which are usually awarded based on academic merit and excellence. Additionally, the UK government runs scholarship programmes for international students, such as the GREAT Scholarships and Chevening Scholarships.
It is important to research the different funding options available and to consider the financial implications of returning to education. Websites like UCAS and the National Careers Service can provide information on course fees and funding options.
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Course flexibility
In the UK, a "mature student" is typically someone who is over 21 at the beginning of their undergraduate studies or over 25 at the start of their postgraduate studies. Mature students often balance their studies with work or caring responsibilities and may have few or no previous qualifications.
The flexibility of a course is an important consideration for mature students, who may have other commitments and constraints. Online courses can be a good option for those who cannot relocate to be near a university, as they allow students to choose from a wider range of courses without being limited to those offered locally. The Open University, for example, is open to everyone, regardless of qualifications.
Part-time and evening courses, as well as distance learning, can also offer more flexibility for mature students who may not be able to commit to a full-time degree. When researching courses, it is worth considering universities that offer a range of funding options and scholarships specifically for mature students, as well as government incentives such as the Childcare Grant and Parents' Learning Allowances.
Some universities may also offer more flexibility in their entry requirements for mature students. While some universities may require A-levels or equivalent qualifications, others may accept professional qualifications or relevant work experience. Mature student admissions teams often have more flexibility when assessing applications and will consider life experience and academic potential, rather than just focusing on school results.
It is worth noting that some universities, like the University of Oxford, have specific colleges dedicated to mature students, such as Harris Manchester College and Wycliffe Hall. These colleges offer personalized academic support and a community of mature students, which can be beneficial for those returning to education.
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Student life
Academic Life
As a mature student, you bring a wealth of life experience and knowledge to your studies, which can be a great advantage. You may find that you have a different perspective on education and a stronger sense of focus and motivation compared to traditional students. Many universities recognise the unique needs of mature students and offer dedicated support services and resources to help you succeed academically. These may include academic advising, tutoring, and study skills workshops tailored to your needs.
Balancing Commitments
One of the biggest challenges for mature students is balancing their studies with other commitments. Many mature students have part-time or full-time jobs, family responsibilities, or other obligations that demand their time and energy. It's important to be realistic about your commitments and consider how you will manage your time effectively. Universities often provide support to help you balance your studies, such as flexible scheduling options or part-time study programmes.
Social Experience
The social aspect of student life is an important part of the university experience. As a mature student, you may find that your social experience is different from that of traditional students. You may have different interests, priorities, and life experiences, which can shape your social interactions. Many universities have mature student societies or networks that can provide a great opportunity to connect with peers who share similar experiences. Getting involved in clubs, societies, or volunteer work can also help you build a strong social network and enhance your overall student experience.
Support Networks
Building a strong support network is crucial for mature students. In addition to the support services provided by universities, you may find support from family, friends, or peers who understand the unique challenges you face. Many universities offer mentoring programmes that pair mature students with current students or alumni who can provide guidance and support throughout your academic journey. Connecting with other mature students can also provide a valuable source of support and help you feel less isolated.
Financial Considerations
Financial planning is an important aspect of student life for mature students. You may be eligible for financial support, scholarships, or grants specifically aimed at mature students. It's important to research the costs associated with your programme, including tuition fees, living expenses, and any additional costs such as childcare or travel expenses. Universities often have dedicated financial aid offices or advisors who can help you navigate funding options and provide guidance on budgeting and managing your finances.
Embarking on university life as a mature student can be a transformative experience, offering personal growth, new opportunities, and a chance to pursue your academic goals. While there may be unique challenges, universities provide a range of support services and resources to help you succeed and thrive throughout your student journey.
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Application process
In the UK, the term 'mature student' is usually used to refer to anyone going to university or college after a period of time out of full-time education. This typically means students who are over 21 at the beginning of their undergraduate studies or over 25 at the start of their postgraduate studies.
If you are considering applying to university as a mature student, the first step is to decide where you want to study. Most mature students choose a university local to them, but online courses are also an option, which means you don't have to relocate and can choose from a wider range of courses.
The next step is to research the universities and courses you are interested in. University websites are a good source of information, and open days can provide an opportunity to learn more. It is also worth looking into the finance and support available, as course fees and funding can be an important consideration. Mature students often use a combination of student loans, savings, and commercial loans to fund their studies, and there may be scholarships or grants available.
When you have decided on a university and course, you can begin the application process. For full-time courses, you will need to apply online through the UCAS website. You will need to create a profile, upload a personal statement, and choose up to five courses. For flexible and part-time courses, you will usually apply directly to the universities and colleges.
As a mature student, you may not have the traditional entry requirements, such as A-levels, but this does not mean you cannot apply to university. Many universities will consider your life experience and work experience as well as your academic qualifications. Some universities may also offer alternative routes to entry, such as Access to Higher Education programmes or foundation degrees.
It is worth noting that if you have not engaged in formal study for a long time, it may be beneficial to take another qualification to refresh your study skills. However, don't let a lack of formal qualifications stop you from applying to university as a mature student.
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Frequently asked questions
In the UK, a mature student is anyone starting an undergraduate degree aged 21 or above. This term is also used for those starting a postgraduate degree aged 25 or above.
Entry requirements vary across universities and colleges. While some universities require A-levels or equivalent qualifications, others will accept professional qualifications, relevant life skills, work experience, or a combination of these. If you don't have the necessary qualifications, you can take an Access to Higher Education course to gain entry.
Mature students can apply for government loans and may be eligible for grants such as the Childcare Grant and Parents' Learning Allowances. Universities may also offer scholarships specifically for mature students.
![Historic Framed Print, [Thurgood Marshall with client Donald Gaines Murray, who was denied entry into the University of Maryland Law School, and another attorney, probably Charles Houston, during court proceedings, Maryland], 17-7/8" x 21-7/8"](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41nesVxPmpL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
![Historic Framed Print, [Thurgood Marshall with client Donald Gaines Murray, who was denied entry into the University of Maryland Law School, and another attorney, probably Charles Houston, during court proceedings, Maryland] - 2, 17-7/8" x 21-7/8"](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/411rbtADvpL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
