Returning To University: A Guide For Mature Students

Returning to university as a mature student can be a daunting prospect, but it's increasingly common for people to go back to education later in life. In the UK, over half of mature students are between 21 and 24, while 40% are over 30. There is no upper age limit at UK universities, and mature students are welcomed for the life and work experience, open-mindedness, and commitment they bring. If you're thinking about returning to university, there are a few things to consider, such as funding options, part-time or full-time study, and how to balance your studies with other commitments.

Funding options: government loans, bursaries, grants, scholarships, and student loans

As a mature student in the UK, you can study at a university even if you do not have traditional qualifications. Course entry requirements vary, so check with the university or college. Some universities will accept professional qualifications or relevant work experience. You do not need qualifications to study at the Open University, as it is open to everyone.

You may be able to apply for student finance, which can include government loans. The amount you get depends on your family situation and the type of course you're doing. You may get extra help if you have children.

There are also an increasing number of scholarships and grants for mature students, mostly for first-time students. For example, the Blackbullion Funding Hub, the UK's largest collection of scholarships, offers scholarships from top companies such as Amazon and Nationwide that come with mentorship and job opportunities. Here are some more examples of scholarships for mature students:

• Mature Students Scholarship: £3,000 for students over 25 studying at Goldsmith's College, University of London.
• Access Entry Mature Students Bursary: Worth £1,000 per year for each year of full-time undergraduate study for students at Royal Holloway over the age of 21 at the start of their studies, who have a household income of £25,000 or less.
• Women Careers Foundation Applicants: For females over 21 years old (although younger applicants taking courses in music or dance are considered) who must be UK citizens.
• Yorkshire Ladies Council for Education: For women from Leeds and Yorkshire over the age of 21 who have a place at a British university and are unable to finance it themselves.

Application process: enrolment, entry requirements, and timing

In the UK, anyone over the age of 21 who didn't go directly to university after school/college is considered a mature student. Most universities welcome applications from mature students, recognising their commitment and life experience, which can be advantageous during the application process.

Enrolment

Mature students can apply through the UCAS system, like younger applicants, although this is not always necessary, as certain universities may have their own application systems. Mature students can also apply through clearing, which is a good option if you decide to apply late or don't get a place through the traditional application process.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements vary across universities and courses. While some universities require academic qualifications, others accept professional qualifications or relevant work experience. Some universities offer alternative entry routes, such as access courses and foundation degrees, which are designed to equip mature students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed with a degree course.

Timing

The timing of the application process will depend on the university and course you are applying for. It is important to research the specific deadlines for your chosen course and university. However, it is worth noting that mature students can enrol at any time, and there is no right or wrong way to be a mature student.

Additional considerations

When applying as a mature student, it is important to consider the financial aspects, as returning to education often means leaving a steady income. There are various funding options available, including government loans, bursaries, grants, and scholarships. It is also worth noting that mature students enrolled in full-time education can apply for a railcard, which offers discounted travel across the UK.

Course options: full-time, part-time, single subjects, and postgraduate qualifications

Returning to university as a mature student can be a daunting experience, but it's increasingly common for experienced professionals to return to education. There are several course options available to you, depending on your needs and requirements.

Full-time courses are an option for mature students, and full-time students of any age are exempt from paying council tax. You may also be eligible for student discounts. However, it can be challenging to fit part-time work around your studies. Studying full-time is a significant commitment of time and mental effort, and you may need to cut down on other commitments to make time for your studies.

Part-time study is another option that may suit your needs better. As a part-time student, you will usually pay per module and you may be able to get a loan if your course has a 'course intensity' of 25% or more. Part-time study can be a good option if you are balancing your studies with other commitments, such as a full-time job or family.

If you are not ready to commit to a full degree, you can enrol in a single subject instead. This allows you to pick and choose topics that suit your professional needs and gain the knowledge you need to upskill quickly. Many single undergraduate subjects don't have entry requirements and allow instant enrolment.

Postgraduate qualifications are also an option for mature students. You can apply for a postgraduate qualification through a simplified enrolment process, and you can get support from a student advisor. Studying for a master's degree is a major investment and requires careful planning and thinking. You may need to consider the financial aspects of leaving a steady income to study full-time, and the costs of university. However, you can speak to your university's financial support team for advice on funding your studies.

Study techniques: organisation, routine, and time management

Returning to university as a mature student can be a daunting experience, but it's increasingly common for experienced professionals to return to university to gain valuable skills, boost their earning potential, or make a career change.

As a mature student, you are likely to have many commitments, so organisation and time management are key. Getting organised and developing a workable routine can make the difference between enjoying your degree and having a stressful time.

Firstly, it's important to remember that you don't have to do everything. You may have to temporarily cut down or give up some of your other commitments. Studying at university is a significant commitment of time and mental effort, so be realistic about what you can achieve.

In your first weeks, you will be given a lot of information, and it's likely you'll forget most of it. Make sure you know where to find information when you need it. For example, your course handbook is usually on Blackboard and includes contact details, procedures, marking criteria, referencing practices, and more. Find out how your department will contact you—usually your university email or via 'pigeonholes' in your department. Know who to talk to when you have a problem: Support Centre staff for administrative queries, your academic tutor for general academic or personal issues, your course tutor for more specific course-related questions, and the Study Advice team for any issues with your academic skills.

When it comes to time management, try adopting the 80/20 rule to help you commit to all your responsibilities, including your family life. Focus on your studies without any distractions for a few hours. Make yourself a tick list to properly focus your efforts. By doing this, you’ll get just as much done in two hours as you would if you were studying for five hours with interruptions and zero planning throughout. Multitasking can have a negative impact on your study time and can leave you feeling like you haven't achieved much. Try to focus on one task at a time.

Don't be too hard on yourself when your schedule doesn't go to plan—life happens. Pick yourself up and keep trying, even if you have to study a little harder the next week to make up for a missed reading.

If you're working in a group, you may find that younger students expect mature students to lead. If this is the case, try to adopt a facilitating role. Ask group members what tasks they think are needed and what they think they'd be good at doing. Agree on dates for meetings and deadlines for completion of tasks from the start. Remember that, even if you are leading the group, it's not your job to be responsible for other people completing their work—don't be tempted to take a parental role! Instead, pair up members of the group to support each other.

Student life: socialising, societies, and support

Returning to university as a mature student can be daunting, but it's an enriching experience that can broaden your horizons. You'll find that you have a lot in common with your younger classmates and, with your years of life experience, you'll be better equipped to build relationships and network with your peers and professors.

Socialising

Socialising is an important part of student life. It can be a great way to make friends and gain valuable social skills that will help you succeed in your future endeavours. Joining societies, sports clubs, fraternities or sororities, or even just hanging out with people in your dorm, are all great ways to meet people and socialise.

If you're studying online, you can still make friends with your classmates through student discussion forums. Introducing yourself and sharing your interests, as well as why you're taking the course and what you hope to get out of it, is a great way to break the ice and form study groups or clubs with your classmates.

Societies

Joining a society is a fantastic way to meet like-minded people and make friends. Whether it's a student-run society, a sports club, or a special interest club, you'll find that most universities offer a wide range of options to choose from.

Support

As a mature student, you may have to work around other commitments and timetables, so getting organised and developing a workable routine is important. In your first few weeks, you'll receive a lot of information, so make sure you know where to find it when you need it. Your course handbook, for example, will usually be available on Blackboard and will include contact details, procedures, marking criteria, and referencing practices.

It's also important to know who to talk to when you have a problem. Support staff, academic tutors, and course tutors are all there to help you with any issues you may encounter. Many universities also offer financial support and advice for mature students who are returning to education.

Frequently asked questions