Entry requirements for mature students vary depending on the institution and program, but generally require evidence of prior learning or work experience in a related field, and may also require completion of specific courses or assessments.
An expanded response to your question
Mature students, those who are over the age of 21, may face different entry requirements when applying to universities or colleges than traditional-aged students. The specifics vary depending on the institution and program, but generally, mature students are expected to have evidence of prior learning or work experience in a related field. For example, they may need to provide a resume or portfolio detailing their relevant skills and experiences. Some institutions may also require completion of specific courses or assessments, such as adult education programs or standardized tests like the GRE or GMAT.
According to the University of Oxford, “Mature students are valued members of the university community and bring a wealth of experience and diversity to our courses.” This sentiment is echoed by many colleges and universities that aim to create a diverse and inclusive learning environment. Additionally, according to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics, the number of adult learners (age 25 and over) enrolled in degree-granting institutions has increased by 39% between 2000 and 2020, demonstrating the growing importance of including mature students in higher education.
It’s important for mature students to do their research when considering their options for higher education, as entry requirements can vary widely between programs and institutions. To aid in this research, we’ve compiled a table of several UK universities and the entry requirements for mature students in their undergraduate programs:
| University | Entry Requirements for Mature Students |
|---|---|
| University of Edinburgh | Relevant work or voluntary experience, personal statement, academic reference (if possible), and possibly an interview |
| University of Manchester | No specific entry requirements, but relevant work or life experience is recommended and may be considered during the admissions process |
| University of Warwick | Personal statement, academic reference, and relevant work or life experience |
| University of Sheffield | Relevant work or life experience, personal statement, and academic reference (if possible) |
| King’s College London | No specific entry requirements, but relevant work or life experience is recommended and may be considered during the admissions process |
As journalist and author Malcolm Gladwell once said, “Learning is not a spectator sport. Learning is an active endeavor. You have to be engaged and involved.” This sentiment holds true for mature students, who bring unique perspectives and experiences to the classroom. By understanding the entry requirements for their desired programs and institutions and actively engaging in the admissions process, mature students can enhance their education and contribute to the learning environment.
Here are some other responses to your query
You are eligible to apply for admission through the Mature-age Entry Scheme if you:
- are a domestic student
- will be 21 or older on 1 March of the year you will commence study
- did not receive an ATAR (or equivalent) or if your ATAR was below 70
- have not done any tertiary study.*
This video has the solution to your question
Two speakers in this video discuss the important and valuable contributions that mature students make to higher education. They define mature students and encourage prospective applicants to consider multiple pathways to higher education. They also discuss misconceptions that prevent mature students from applying to university and provide tips for the admissions process, including doing research, seeking advice, and using current experiences to support applications. Additionally, they address concerns about fitting in socially and advise prospective students to be proactive in integrating themselves into university life. The speakers emphasize that universities are welcoming to mature students and encourage them to take advantage of available resources.
These topics will undoubtedly pique your attention
What counts as a mature student?
Response will be: over 21 years of age
Typically, this will mean students who are 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.
Do US universities accept mature students?
Mature students are welcomed by university and college authorities for the perspectives that they bring, their skills, their experience, and their commitment to study. Education officials are therefore willing to offer them flexibility in admissions criteria and programs.
How do you write a personal statement for a mature student?
Five things to include in your personal statement
- Answer the question ‘why now…? ‘
- Demonstrate your personal progression. Tell them why it makes sense for you to study now.
- Talk about your life and work experience.
- Show you understand the time commitments of degree study.
- Keep your statement story honest – and personal.
Can I go to college at 23?
It is never too late to go to college. As a matter of fact, there is no age limit when applying, although older applicants may have to go through a different admissions process. Many of today’s higher education institutions provide mature and returning students the opportunity to educate themselves.
What are the entry requirements for mature applicants?
As a mature applicant, you are expected to meet our normal entry requirements unless you also meet our definition of an adult returner. We will consider you to be an adult returner if you have had a continuous gap of at least three years from formal education, and do not already have a degree.
What is a mature student?
There is no firm definition but often students over the age of 21 are referred to as mature students. Sometimes universities will also use other terms such as adult learners or adult returner. Why university is for everyone and why study when you’re older?
Can I take an A Level qualification as a mature student?
The answer is: If you need extra qualifications to meet entry requirements, you can take an A Level or BTEC qualification at any age as a mature student. Check with your local colleges to see if they take applications from mature students, or you might find your chosen A Level can be taught online.
What should a mature student consider before starting a university?
Mature students are a diverse group. You could have few commitments, making starting university relatively straightforward. Or you may have a lot to consider, like a job and family. Think about what’s feasible, for example, if a full-time degree isn’t manageable, research part-time and evening courses, or distance learning .