Redefine your future and study on your own terms as a mature student

More and more people in their 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond are choosing to study for a degree. Being a mature student is now one of the fastest-growing groups in higher education.

At the University of East London (UEL), we welcome hundreds of mature students every year. Whether you want to change career, improve your job prospects, or study something you’ve always loved, it’s never too late to start.

More people than ever are studying as mature students

• More than 346,000 students aged 25-29 studied in the UK in 2024/25 (HESA)
• Over 650,000 students over the age of 30 studied in the UK in the 2024/25 academic year (HESA)
• The number of students aged 30+ starting degrees is increasing every year, especially in subjects like healthcare, education, and business

Reasons to come back to studying

There are many reasons why more people are choosing to study later in life:

• Changing career

Jobs are changing quickly. Many people retrain to work in areas such as nursing, law, teaching, AI and business, where demand for skilled workers is very high.

• Better job prospects and pay

Graduates in the UK earn, on average, £10,000 more each year than non-graduates (ONS, 2023). For a mature student, that can mean better pay and more security for the future.

• Personal growth

It’s not just about money. For many, studying is about gaining confidence and proving to themselves that they can succeed. Mature students are often more focused and determined than younger learners.

• Flexible study options

At UEL you can choose from part-time, online, and evening study. This makes it easier to balance your degree with work, family or other responsibilities.

Mature students bring huge strengths to the classroom

If you’re considering returning to study, being a mature student can be a real advantage. You’ll bring valuable experience from work and life that can enrich your learning and give you a fresh perspective on your subject. Many mature students find they are more focused, better organised, and clearer about what they want to achieve, which can make it easier to stay motivated and get the most out of their course. You’re building on what you already know, and that can make your university experience more purposeful and rewarding.

Mature students bring huge strengths to the classroom:

• Real-world experience
• Strong time management skills
• A clear sense of purpose

Support for mature students at UEL

We know coming back to study can feel challenging. That’s why UEL offers:

• Dedicated support services for finance, careers and wellbeing
• Flexible entry routes that take work and life experience into account
• Childcare on campus and family-friendly spaces
• A welcoming mature student network to help you settle in

Now is the right time

The world of work is changing, and there has never been a better time to study. Becoming a mature student gives you the chance to take control of your future.

At UEL, we’ll support you every step of the way.

If you’ve been thinking about going to university, take this as your sign. As a mature student at UEL, you’ll find the support, flexibility and opportunities to succeed—whatever stage of life you’re in. Explore our courses today.