Janice Lozano
Returning to university as a mature student can be a daunting prospect, but it is also an enriching experience that can broaden your horizons. In the UK, a mature student is defined as any student aged 21 or over at the start of their studies, and there is no upper age limit. Mature students come from a range of educational and professional backgrounds and have various motivations for returning to education, such as studying a subject they are passionate about, career development, or retraining to access a new industry or field. While returning to university as a mature student can be challenging, there are many benefits, including the opportunity to build relationships and network with peers and professors, as well as the intellectual stimulation that comes with tackling new challenges.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition of a mature student | A mature student is defined as any student aged 21 or over at the start of their studies. |
| Age concerns | Age is just a number and makes no difference when it comes to going to university. |
| Previous qualifications | Some mature students may have few or no previous qualifications, and may be taking Access to HE diploma courses. |
| Funding options | There are many different funding options, from government loans and bursaries to grants and scholarships. |
| Part-time study | Part-time study may be the only option that suits your needs and requirements. |
| Time management | Getting organised and developing a workable routine can make the difference between enjoying your degree and having a stressful time. |
| Social concerns | Younger students often respect mature students, as one thing that comes with age is wisdom. |
| Student life | Student IDs can get you great discounts on transport, shopping and cultural experiences in almost any major city. |
| Student accommodation | University student halls can be a good value for money option and are the easiest option in terms of pre-arrival search. |
| Course options | You can explore a subject you find interesting or rewarding, or progress your career by increasing your skills and knowledge. |
| Support | Universities have support staff for administrative queries, academic tutors for general academic or personal issues, and course tutors for more specific course-related questions. |
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What You'll Learn
Funding and financial considerations
Firstly, it is important to research the different funding options available. These include government loans, bursaries, grants, and scholarships. You can also speak to the university's financial support team for advice on additional funding during your studies. If you are a UK student, you may be able to get a loan for your part-time course if it has a 'course intensity' of 25% or more.
Additionally, as a full-time student, you are exempt from paying council tax and are eligible for student discounts on things like public transport, shopping, and cultural experiences. You can also consider part-time work to supplement your income, although balancing work and studies can be challenging.
Another option is to explore distance learning, which is popular among older students as it offers flexibility. The Open University, for example, is a well-known distance learning institution in the UK.
Furthermore, your employment history and previous qualifications will be considered when applying for a university course. Some universities may accept Open University credits, access courses, and professional qualifications instead of traditional entry requirements. If you do not have the required qualifications, you can look into Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) or Access to Higher Education courses.
Finally, it is important to consider the financial implications of returning to university. You may need to cut down on certain expenses or adjust your lifestyle to fit your student budget.
In conclusion, while funding and financial considerations are important when returning to university as a mature student, there are various options available to support your studies. By researching funding options, speaking to financial support teams, and considering part-time work or distance learning, you can make your return to university a successful and rewarding experience.
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Entry requirements and qualifications
A mature student is typically defined as any student aged 21 or older at the start of their studies. However, this definition varies across institutions, with some universities catering to mature students who are approaching retirement. Notably, there is no upper age limit to studying at a university in the United Kingdom.
The entry requirements and qualifications for mature students can vary depending on the university and the specific programme of study. It is always advisable to contact the admissions office directly to discuss the entry requirements for mature students, as these may differ from the requirements for school leavers.
Some universities may require traditional qualifications, such as A-levels or their equivalent, while others may offer more flexible routes for mature students. For example, some institutions accept Open University credits, access courses, or professional qualifications. If you don't have the necessary qualifications, you can explore alternatives such as Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) or Access to Higher Education courses. These routes recognise your previous work experience and life skills, providing an alternative pathway to higher education.
Additionally, funding options are available specifically for mature students. Government loans, bursaries, grants, and scholarships can help finance your studies. Part-time study may also be a more suitable option, allowing you to balance your education with other commitments. In the UK, you may pay per module for part-time study and still be eligible for a loan if your course intensity is 25% or more.
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Organisation and time management
Returning to university as a mature student can be a daunting prospect, but it's never too late to go back into education. Organisation and time management are key to succeeding in your studies and will help you find the right balance between your academic and personal life.
As a mature student, you may have to work around other commitments, such as work or family responsibilities, and getting organised will make the difference between enjoying your degree and having a stressful time. In your first weeks, you will receive a lot of information, so make sure you know where to find it when you need it. Your course handbook, for example, will include contact details, procedures, marking criteria, referencing practices and more. It is also important to know who to talk to when you have a problem—the Support Centre staff for administrative queries, your academic tutor for general academic or personal issues, your course tutor for course-related questions, and the Study Advice team for any issues.
You can also adopt the 80/20 rule to help you commit to all your responsibilities, including your family life. Focus on your studies without distractions for a few hours, making a tick list to properly focus your efforts. This way, you'll get just as much done in two hours as you would in five hours with interruptions and zero planning. Multitasking can negatively impact your study time and leave you feeling unproductive. So, try to focus on one task at a time.
If you feel overwhelmed, step back and make a list of jobs, breaking big tasks into smaller, manageable chunks that you can tick off as you achieve them. Remember why you chose to do this and how hard you worked to get here. Think of studying as a treat, not a chore. If you're still struggling to find the time, you may have taken too much on. Studying at university is a significant time and mental commitment, and you may have to cut down or give up other activities.
Many universities offer flexible learning options, and part-time study may be the best option for your needs and requirements. You may also be able to get a loan if your part-time course has a 'course intensity' of 25% or more.
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Social life and fitting in
Returning to university as a mature student can be daunting, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. In the UK, over half of mature students are between 21 and 24, while 40% are over 30. Many universities also have a Mature Students' Society, which can be a great way to meet like-minded individuals and build a support system.
As a mature student, you may have concerns about fitting in with younger students. However, remember that your life experience is a valuable asset. You may find that you have more in common with your classmates than you think, and your experience can help you build relationships and network with your peers and professors. Younger students often respect mature students for their wisdom and life experience.
To make the most of your university experience, it's important to get involved and take advantage of the opportunities available to you. This could include attending lectures, joining language conversation groups, or participating in other types of informal learning. University can also offer a range of social activities, such as societies, clubs, and sports teams, which can be a great way to meet people with similar interests.
Balancing your studies with your social life and other commitments can be challenging. Organisation and time management are key. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, and focus on one task at a time to avoid the negative impact of multitasking. Remember that it's okay to say no to social invitations to focus on your studies or other priorities.
While returning to university as a mature student can be challenging, it can also be a rewarding and enriching experience. You will gain new skills and knowledge, broaden your horizons, and meet people from diverse backgrounds. Remember that you are never too old to learn and that education is a lifelong journey.
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Accommodation
If you are planning to return to university as a mature student, you may be concerned about fitting in with younger students in halls of residence. Many universities, such as the University of Plymouth, aim to allocate students aged 23 and over into flats together, as they understand that students' lifestyle choices may vary. The University of Plymouth also offers a homestay option, where you can live in a property alongside the homeowner.
If you are moving with your family, the University of Dundee recommends that you come alone first to organise accommodation. Dundee has a variety of private sector accommodation options, but you will find it easier to set this up once you are in the city. Alternatively, if you live in the surrounding areas of Dundee, Fife, or Angus, you can commute to campus via reliable transport links.
If you are studying part-time or online, you may not need to relocate at all. This means you can choose a course that suits you without being limited to local options.
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Frequently asked questions
A mature student is defined as any student aged 21 or over at the start of their studies. Over half of mature students are between the ages of 21 and 24, 38-40% are between 25 and 39, and 10% are over 40. There is no upper age limit to any university in the United Kingdom.
Returning to university as a mature student can be a rewarding experience. Mature students often have extensive careers and transferable experience of planning their time, organising people and projects, working in groups and presenting to audiences. They are also better equipped to build relationships and network with their peers and professors.
Returning to university as a mature student can be daunting. You may have to adjust to student life and balance your studies with work and family commitments. It can be a challenge to fit in part-time work alongside your studies.
There are many different funding options for mature students, from government loans and bursaries, to grants and scholarships. You can apply for a student loan at any age, and use this to cover tuition fees. Full-time students of any age are exempt from paying council tax and may be eligible for student discounts.
