Janice Lozano
Returning to education as a mature student can be a daunting but rewarding experience. Mature students are usually defined as those aged 21 or over at the start of their undergraduate studies, or 25 and above for postgraduates, and they often balance their studies with work or family commitments. Mature students bring a wealth of experience and diversity to the student population, and many universities offer funding options and support services to help them succeed. With part-time, evening, and distance learning options available, as well as the possibility of gaining entry based on work experience or alternative qualifications, mature students can find a path that suits their needs and interests.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition of a mature student | Typically, anyone over the age of 21 at the beginning of their undergraduate studies, or over 25 at the beginning of their postgraduate studies |
| Reasons to become a mature student | Returning to education after some time away, school education was disrupted, seeking an intellectual challenge, career progression, personal reasons |
| Benefits of being a mature student | Gain confidence, bring a wealth of experience, more appreciation for education |
| Challenges of being a mature student | Intimidation, keeping up with technology, balancing other commitments, finances |
| Entry requirements | Most universities require recent accredited study prior to starting a degree. Some universities will accept professional qualifications or relevant work experience. |
| Application process | Apply through UCAS (UK), directly to the university (US, Canada, Australia), or through Open Universities Australia |
| Support | Student advisors, student discussion forums, support services and networks, student clubs and societies |
| Finances | Government loans, scholarships, childcare grants, parents' learning allowances, student discounts |
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What You'll Learn
Funding and scholarships
Loans
Student Loans are available for mature students, including Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans. The former covers your tuition fees, while the latter assists with living costs. You can apply for these through the relevant regional Student Finance body. It is worth noting that Maintenance Loans are rarely enough to cover all living expenses, especially if you have other financial commitments such as children or a mortgage. However, the repayment terms are favourable compared to private loan providers.
Grants, Scholarships, and Bursaries
In addition to loans, you can also explore grants, scholarships, and bursaries to help fund your studies. Many universities offer scholarships and bursaries specifically for mature students, and some universities provide grants for students with children to help with childcare costs. There are also external scholarships and grants available, such as the Parents' Learning Allowance and Childcare Grants, which can provide significant financial support.
University-Specific Opportunities
Different universities may have unique funding opportunities for mature students. For example, some universities offer flexible learning options such as online courses, part-time study, or evening classes, which can make it easier to work and study simultaneously. Additionally, some universities may offer scholarships based on academic merit or financial need.
Employer Support
If you are currently employed, your employer may provide support for continuing education, including tuition reimbursement or financial assistance for textbooks and supplies. They may also allow you to complete some of your schoolwork during work hours.
Government Assistance
Depending on your location, there may be government assistance available. For example, in the US, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the official application for government-provided financial assistance, including work-study programs, grants, and federally-backed student loans. In the UK, the Open University is open to everyone, regardless of qualifications, and offers flexible learning options.
Additional Scholarships and Grants
There are also an increasing number of scholarships and grants specifically for mature students, often for first-time students. These can be found on platforms like the Blackbullion Funding Hub, which includes scholarships from top companies like Amazon and Nationwide, offering mentorship and job opportunities alongside financial support.
In summary, there are various funding and scholarship opportunities available for mature students. It is essential to research and explore these options early in your application process to ensure you can maximise your financial support.
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Entry requirements
The term 'mature student' is usually used to refer to anyone going to university after a period of time out of full-time education, typically those over 21 at the beginning of undergraduate studies or over 25 at the beginning of postgraduate studies.
Most courses will have entry requirements, which can be found on course details on UCAS's search tool. Universities accept a range of qualifications, and students from different backgrounds. They will also consider your employment history and any other qualifications you have. If you don't have traditional qualifications, some universities will accept professional qualifications or relevant work experience.
If you have been out of formal education for some time, an Access to Higher Education course could help prepare you for your return to study. These are typically one- or two-year programmes that can specialise in a variety of subjects, and are designed for adults seeking to progress to higher education.
If you are not ready to commit to a full degree, you can enrol in a single subject instead. Many of the single undergraduate subjects available through Open Universities Australia have no entry requirements, allowing instant enrolment.
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Student experience
Deciding to go to university as a mature student can be a daunting experience. However, it can also be exciting and rewarding. Mature students often bring a wealth of experience and make a valuable contribution to the diversity of the student population.
The term 'mature student' usually refers to anyone over the age of 21 at the beginning of their undergraduate studies or over 25 at the start of their postgraduate studies. Many mature students already have significant work experience in their field and decide to enrol at university to earn a qualification to get ahead in their careers. Others may be looking to change careers, return to education after some time away, or seek an intellectual challenge.
When applying to university as a mature student, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, most universities consider applicants with varied educational and employment backgrounds. Some universities may require recent accredited study, while others may accept professional qualifications or relevant work experience. It's important to research the entry requirements of your chosen universities.
Finances are another important consideration. University can be expensive, but there are funding options available, including government loans, scholarships, and grants. Mature students may also have to consider balancing their studies with a job and family responsibilities. Part-time, evening, and distance learning courses can offer more flexibility for those who cannot commit to a full-time degree.
Once enrolled in a course, mature students can expect a similar university experience to their younger peers. Student clubs, societies, and sports are open to all and can provide a great opportunity to meet people and enrich the student experience. While it may be intimidating at first, many mature students find that their life experience and wisdom help them feel more confident in their studies.
Overall, going to university as a mature student can be a fantastic experience. It can provide an opportunity to gain new skills and knowledge, enhance career prospects, and achieve personal goals. With the right support and resources, mature students can succeed and thrive in their studies.
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Time management
Assess Your Commitments and Create a Schedule:
Before starting your university course, take an honest look at your current commitments and responsibilities. Consider your work schedule, family obligations, and any other regular activities or tasks that demand your time. Create a realistic weekly schedule that allocates dedicated time slots for studying, attending lectures, and completing assignments, while also allowing for much-needed breaks and leisure activities. Share your schedule with family or friends to help them understand your availability and to hold you accountable.
Be Adaptable and Prioritise:
Understand that your schedule may not always go according to plan due to unexpected events or urgent responsibilities. Learn to be adaptable and prioritise your tasks accordingly. If you have an unexpected work deadline or a family emergency, don't be too hard on yourself. Pick up where you left off and adjust your schedule as needed. Prioritise urgent tasks and break down larger tasks into manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Utilise Time-Saving Opportunities:
Look for opportunities to save time and increase efficiency. For example, if your course offers recorded lectures, you can watch them at a time that suits your schedule, allowing you to study at your own pace. Make use of online resources and discussion forums to clarify doubts and connect with your peers, which can save time compared to traditional face-to-face meetings. Additionally, consider batch cooking meals or delegating certain tasks to free up time for your studies.
Stay Organised and Set Reminders:
Stay organised by using planners, calendars, or task management apps to keep track of important dates, deadlines, and goals. Set reminders for upcoming assignments, exams, and other commitments. Break down large assignments into smaller milestones and set reminders for each stage to ensure you stay on track. Regularly review your schedule and to-do lists to ensure you're on top of your tasks and not overloading yourself.
Consider Part-Time or Distance Learning:
If managing a full-time degree seems daunting, consider part-time or distance learning options. Part-time study allows you to spread out your course over a longer period, reducing the intensity and providing more time for other commitments. Distance learning or online courses offer flexibility, allowing you to study from home and manage your own time more effectively, especially if you have family or work obligations that require a non-traditional study schedule.
Returning to university as a mature student requires dedication and a careful balancing act, but with effective time management strategies, you can achieve your educational goals without sacrificing other important aspects of your life.
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Course enrolment
The application process is similar to that for younger students, with a profile, personal statement, and course choices submitted through UCAS. However, the entry requirements may differ, and mature students can meet these in alternative ways. For example, some universities will accept professional qualifications or relevant work experience. If you do not have the necessary A Levels or equivalent, you can consider taking an Access to HE diploma. You can also enrol in a single subject to gain knowledge and upskill quickly, with many courses allowing instant enrolment.
When applying, it is worth considering the support available for mature students at different universities, and whether you will need help with study skills or technology. You can also access funding options such as government loans, scholarships, and grants.
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Frequently asked questions
The term 'mature student' usually refers to anyone going to university after taking time out of full-time education. This typically means students who are over 21 at the start of their undergraduate studies or over 25 at the start of their postgraduate studies.
Mature students bring a wealth of experience and diversity to the student population. As a mature student, you are more likely to appreciate your education, as you are there because you want to be, not because you feel pressured by teachers or parents. You will also gain confidence and learn a lot from being assessed by experts in your field.
Universities offer a range of funding options for mature students, including government loans, scholarships, Childcare Grants and Parents' Learning Allowances. Student clubs, societies and sports are open to all, and you can make friends through student discussion forums. You can also access support services and networks to help you during your time at university.
You can apply for a postgraduate qualification through a simplified enrolment process. If you don't want to commit to a full degree, you can enrol in a single subject instead. For full-time courses, you can apply for courses online through the UCAS website. For flexible and part-time courses, you can apply directly to the universities and colleges.
