When you think ‘mature student’ you can be forgiven for thinking of someone in their mid 40s or older who have started studying again, but this isn’t totally correct. Although someone in their mid 40s would fall into this category, the classification of mature student actually covers students from age 21 upwards. In other words, the term applies to someone who has returned to studying after the traditional school finishing age.
You can be a mature student on many different subjects and courses, such as GCSEs or A-Levels, but the term itself is usually put into play when you apply to university. Universities often have different requirements and application methods for mature students compared to school leavers, which we will look at later.
Is there an Upper age Limit to being a Mature Student?
Thankfully, not! It doesn’t matter how old you are, if you want to go back to school or university and give things another go, then why not! Take Nola Ochs, she became the oldest woman in the world to graduate and gain a Bachelor of Arts at the modest age of 96!
There is a growing trend of school leavers returning to education after a few years of working in order to carry on their educational journey and get the degree and career they really want.
Are there Advantages to being a Mature Student?
Absolutely! If you compare your 18 year old self to your current day self, it’s safe to say you are probably a lot more mature and focused in life. Chances are, you have had a few life experiences and learned a lot, so now you know what you want from life and what you need to do to get there.
When it comes to universities, more often than not, the application process and entry requirements for degree courses is much more flexible! For example, instead of you having to have 3 or 4 A-Levels at certain grades, you can be offered a place with a Level 3 Diploma and GCSEs or with just 2 A-Levels. So be sure to check with a potential university what their entry requirements are for mature students.