Mature students
Our teaching will inspire and stretch you in a supportive environment where you can explore your potential and develop new skills to achieve your goals.
Who are mature students?
Students who are 21 and over when they start their course are often some of our most well-equipped learners. There is no such thing as a typical mature student at York. They come from a variety of backgrounds and bring skills gained from work, family and other life experiences.
Contact us
If you have any questions about the application process, our Admissions team will be happy to help.
Undergraduate Admissions
Is university for me?
You may wish to pursue a new interest, change career path or expand your qualifications to stay ahead in your field of employment. Whatever the reason, it's never too late to change career, fulfil your potential and gain experience, knowledge and the confidence to achieve your goals.
I was extremely anxious at the prospect of going to university as a mature student in my 40s. I honestly thought that university was not for me. Fast forward into the future and I am loving every day of my university experience. I have met some brilliant people on my course and the staff have been super supportive, making my journey seamless.
Spiwe, BSc Nursing (Mental Health)
Can I afford to go to university?
Most UK students coming to university for the first time are entitled to government support for living costs. You may get extra help if you have children.
Find out how much our courses cost and discover the different types of loans and bursaries available to you.
Applying and study options
We offer a wide range of undergraduate courses and postgraduate courses.
You may not need to have the same academic qualifications as school-leaving applicants. You'll need to show enthusiasm and passion for your chosen subject, and we'll consider your relevant work, subject or academic experience.
As a mature undergraduate student you may be able to apply to York with:
- A levels and some BTEC qualifications
- Access and Foundation courses
- apprenticeship
- work and voluntary experience.
If you need some advice about entry requirements, you can contact the admissions tutor for the department you're interested in.
Get a taste of higher education
Our free short online courses will give you a flavour of teaching at York.
Lifelong Learning
If you haven't studied for a while you can take an accredited course with our Centre for Lifelong Learning if you need it.
Support if you need it
Our teaching and support staff, colleges and societies are here to help you adjust to university life and meet other mature students. Together we provide a network of personal and academic support who can give you advice about everything from childcare to housing and money matters.
Family life
Our Family Network and support services are here for you should you need them. Children are welcome in most places on campus and we have baby changing facilities and dedicated breastfeeding spaces if you would like a quiet place to feed your child or to express milk.
The Family Network is a group for anyone at the University with dependents. They organise family-friendly events and can offer advice on having a family at university. Visit the Family Network Facebook group for more information.
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Getting involved
You'll be invited to an induction event (Step Ahead) before term starts as well as events during Welcome Week and throughout the year. You could join a society to make new friends and learn a new skill or get involved with your department by becoming a course rep.
Accommodation
If you need accommodation in York and would prefer to live with other mature students, you can request this in your application.
If you require family accommodation, we have a small number of properties on and off campus. We also work with York Housing Association to provide even more options. We also have a small number of on-campus rooms and studios for couples.
Connect with York students
Sign up for a Student Buddy, a continuing student who will share their own experiences with you and be on hand with friendly advice.
Student blogs
Who better to tell you about life as a mature student at York than our students who've recently been through it themselves.
Contact us
If you have any questions about the application process, our Admissions team will be happy to help.
Undergraduate Admissions