Mature Students: Studying Over the Age of 21

Male postgraduate student at first direct arena
Full view of Broadcasting Place tower, enhancing its architectural angles against a blue sky

University as a mature student

A mature student is anyone who is over the age of 21 who decides to study an undergraduate degree. If that’s you, we’ve got lots of insights and information below to help you. Whether it’s advice on juggling family or work life alongside your course, to blogs from mature students already studying at Beckett, find out what being a student over 21 is all about.

My course is something that I'm doing PURELY for me, and that is a big driving force. At university I am no longer someone’s mum, I am my own person (if only for my contact hours!) and it has given me back a sense of self.

English and History student, Kate
Kate, aged 35 English and History

10 great things about being a mature student

Image of female student using a laptop in the library

Challenges and misconceptions of being a mature student

Man smiling and presenting to the room with skeleton in the background

mature student stories

We caught up with a few of our mature students here at Leeds Beckett and asked them to share their own experiences, as well as any advice for others considering going back into education. As you can see, their experiences are overwhelmingly positive, which is great!

BA Teaching and Education student, Hannah

HAVING MATURE STUDENTS ON THE COURSE IS GREAT

They tend to bring a new perspective to discussions that couldn't necessarily come from other students. They often have relevant, real-world experiences that other students can learn from. Mature students make you want to up your game, their work ethic and passion show through work produced.

Hannah BA Teaching and Education
interested?

Take your next steps

If you're interested in joining us and want to know more about the application process, your chosen course or what to expect when you get here, there's lots of ways to get in touch. You can call or email our Admissions team, chat to one of our amazing Student Ambassadors or stay in touch by providing us with a few contact details to get all the latest information about courses, events and student life!