Mature students

Whether you are looking to return to education, diversify your skills or change your career, º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ welcomes students of all ages and from all backgrounds.

Mature students (those aged 21 and over at registration) are a valuable section of the º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ population, bringing a wealth of life experience to the classroom – much to the benefit of other students.

There are lots of reasons for returning to education in later life – you may be seeking career development or perhaps you see this as a time to focus on you, and to follow your own ambitions. Whatever the reason, our promise is that we’ll do all we can to make you feel welcome and at home during your studies.

From the moment you arrive on campus, you will have access to our award winning Careers Network, and can immediately begin researching your options, meeting with employers and developing your skills to ensure you are ready to take on the next step in your career.

Grace-Anne's story

As a mature student Grace-Anne was initially nervous about enrolling on an Undergraduate degree, returning to academic life and studying alongside younger students. Here, she reflects on her experiences and everything she has accomplished during her three years at º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ.

So, what is on offer at º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ?

We understand and appreciate that your needs may differ to those of students aged 18-21, and we aim to accommodate these as best as possible.

If you hold A level or BTEC qualifications, you could be eligible to apply for a Bachelor’s degree without further assessment. If not, you may need to complete an Access course or Foundation course first. For advice, please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Team as there may be some flexibility in requirements for mature students.

Mature students may be eligible for a means tested º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ Bursary (LUB) 

Student finance loans are available to mature students who are UK nationals. Please note there are several criteria you must meet in order to access this support, so it’s always worth checking online to understand how your individual circumstances could affect your entitlement.

Students who are 19 or over may also be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan to support with costs.

If you are under 30, National Rail have introduced additional railcards so that you can benefit from cheaper train travel. The 16-25 and 26-30 railcards offer 1/3 off the cost of full-price rail travel for a small fee per year. For more information, visit the National Rail website.

For advice and support from other mature students who are entering the application process, or are already studying at university, visit The Student Room Mature Student’s forum.

The Student Accommodation Centre can help you to secure University accommodation or accommodation off-campus if you prefer. Our flexible accommodation options include halls and private rentals with returning students and accommodation that is suitable for couples and/or families.

The Centre can also offer postgraduate rooms on a 50-week let (subject to availability), should you wish to live on campus over the summer months. For more information, please contact the Student Accommodation Centre.

You can come along to one of our University Open Days and speak to experts about finance, careers and study support, and to ask current mature students about their º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ experiences. 

Once you have decided that you would like to study at º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ, you know which course you would like to study, and you have checked the requirements, you can go ahead and apply through UCAS. Applications are made online through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) rather than direct to institutions. Follow our guide on how to apply through UCAS for more information.