Mature Students

mature student reading a book

A mature student refers to anyone going to university or college after a period out of full-time education. 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.

Applying as a mature student

Some mature students may have few or no previous qualifications, and may be taking Access to HE diploma courses, or enrolling on their first degree course based on their work or life experiences.  Others may be returning to do a postgraduate qualification or a degree in a new subject area as part of their career progression.

Submitting your application

For the majority of our undergraduate courses mature students apply through UCAS.

When looking through your UCAS application form, Aberystwyth University Admissions Tutor will take all the evidence into account. It is not the case at Aberystwyth that decisions are made solely on the basis of gained or predicted level grades. Admissions tutors will ensure that mature age students are given every opportunity to discuss their individual case.

UCAS advice for mature applicants

  • UCAS advice for mature applicants

Mature students often balance their studies alongside work or caring responsibilities.  UCAS  has advice and guidance for mature students applying to Higher Education.

Foundation Year

Many students who have spent a period of time out of full-time education choose to study a Foundation Year at Aberystwyth University.

Funding for Mature Students

The University offers a range of Scholarships and bursaries and funding avenues for mature undergraduates.

Mature students from the UK may also be eligible for further assistance from the Government to support them during their studies, including:

  • The Childcare Grant, a non-repayable grant for students in full time higher education with children under the age of 15 (or under the age of 17 if they have special needs)
  • The Adult Dependants’ Grant, a non-repayable grant for students in full time higher education with an adult that is financially dependent on them
  • The Parents’ Learning Allowance, a non-repayable grant for student parents who are in full time higher education or initial teacher training
  • Disabled Students’ Allowance, a non-repayable grant to help cover some of the extra costs that may result from a mental health problem, long term illness or any other disability.