We support Students Returning to Education

We are committed to supporting our students of all ages, whether they are school leavers, returning to education or are changing careers.

Are you a student returning to education or a mature student?

If you are over 21 at the start of your course and studying for an undergraduate course, or over 25 and studying for a postgraduate course you count as a mature student. The support we provide for mature students is applicable and appropriate for all students returning to education after any length of break.

What are your study options?

We welcome mature students, offering a variety of different study modes: full-time, part-time, on campus and online. Around 17% of our full-time undergraduate population are mature students. We have campuses across the UK as well as online courses, so you do not need to move away from home to be able to study with us. If you have other commitments and need flexibility in terms of where you study, studying online could be a good option for you, as nearly all our online undergraduate students are mature. However, the weekly study hours are the same regardless of your mode of study. For example, full time study requires approximately 40 study hours a week, and part-time approximately 20 hours. Some courses also offer different start dates for example September or January and others, so make sure to check the course dates for the degree you are interested in to select the best option for you.

Applying as a mature student

We welcome mature applicants with all qualifications and view applications holistically, considering professional and life experience. For more information on our entry requirements please see our Undergraduate and Postgraduate pages or contact our Admissions team [email protected]

Applications for most of our on campus undergraduate courses should be made through UCAS. Simply visit the UCAS website and register your details with UCAS Apply to get started on your application. If you are a parent, do make sure to tick the box on the UCAS form which lets us know, as you may be eligible for additional support.

For our Online Courses, Postgraduate Degrees and International Foundation Programmes, applications are made directly to us (not through UCAS). You simply complete our online form to apply.

For more information, including what to put into an application, please see the below pages:

How to Apply for an Undergraduate Course ➔

How to Apply for Postgraduate Degree ➔

Our team of course advisors are also happy to answer any questions you may have by contacting [email protected].

We offer tailored campus tours at all our campuses so you can visit at a time that suits you. Please contact our Student Information team [email protected] to arrange this if you would like to visit us.

Pre-university study resources:

Support we offer for our mature students

One-to-one appointments with the Wellbeing Service who can provide advice and guidance on concerns such as managing multiple commitments like study, work and family life.
Access to our confidential counselling service.
Tailored advice from our Employability Service.
Tailored one-to-one support online or in person from the Library to help you familiarise yourself with library collections and services.
Student Journey Advisors will support and advise you throughout your studies with us, ensuring that you have the best possible experience.
Academic Coaches will offer you guidance throughout your course as well as assistance and advice as required during your time studying with us. They'll also be on hand to help you develop your plans for your future career.
Access to the JISC Discovery Tool, a digital skills self-assessment platform, as well as LinkedIn learning which covers topics like managing your time.
Access to the ULaw Skills Academy, a one stop shop for self-paced online learning material, designed to boost your digital, academic and research skills.
Access to our Money and Housing team, who can provide advice about financial support and budgeting.

Financial support

In addition to support you may be eligible for from Student Finance, we have scholarships and bursaries you may be eligible for. Depending on your circumstances, and if you are studying at undergraduate level, you may be interested in the two options below.

Career Changer Scholarship

The University of Law Undergraduate Bursary

Each have their own criteria, including deadlines, so do make sure you read the details on this webpage prior to studying with us.

If you have spent time in local authority care or do not have contact with your parents, see what practical advice, information and support we provide.

We also recognise that the cost of living crisis is a big consideration when deciding to take up study, here you can find out more about how we can support you.

"My concerns about my age were instantly dispelled. Several of my classmates on the weekend course were older than I am (in their forties and fifties) and came from various careers and backgrounds. All the class, but particularly the mature students, supported each other throughout the course. The excellent tutors, some of whom had undertaken career changes themselves, were empathetic and helpful. The Employability Service was encouraging too, giving examples of other mature students who had made a similar career change to the one I was undertaking."

Mature Law Student, Adam Clay-Croome

Speak to some of our current University students through our UniBuddy platform to hear more about their student journey and experience.

student support

Students Returning to Education and Mature Students