Applying as a mature student
Mature students commonly achieve outstanding success at university because they are passionate about what they want to achieve; demonstrate invaluable enthusiasm and eagerness to learn; and bring a wealth of skills and experience from their work or personal life.
"Coming back to education as a mature student was daunting but within a couple of weeks, with the lecturers' help, it was easy to see I'd fit in."
Blair, BSc (Hons) Business Studies
If you are returning to learning (rather than progressing straight from school or college, or moving from an undergraduate course to a postgraduate course), universities understand it may call for some adjustments to what they offer so that you can combine studying with your family and work commitments.
For example, at Bedfordshire, we offer flexibility through:
- an initial Foundation Year to prepare you for higher-education study
- part-time courses (UK-based students only)
- continuing professional development short courses
- practice-led routes such as apprenticeships and HTQs
- block delivery with multiple start points through the year
- recognition of prior learning or work experience (RPCL or RPEL)
- 24/7 independent-study resources
- a full support service, from study-skills development and careers guidance to emotional wellbeing and help in finding childcare
- financial support through our Bedfordshire Bursary, which also covers a Foundation Year
Mature students have the same rights and benefits as students joining straight from school or college, and the application journey is the same, whether you are undergraduate or postgraduate.
telephone
University switchboard
During office hours
(Monday-Friday 08:30-17:00)
+44 (0)1234 400 400
Outside office hours
(Campus Watch)
+44 (0)1582 74 39 89
Admissions
admission@beds.ac.uk
International office
international@beds.ac.uk
Student support
sid@beds.ac.uk
Registration
sid@beds.ac.uk