Advice for mature learners
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Advice for mature learners
Returning to Education? Support for Mature Learners
Whether you are returning to education after a break, changing career or applying without traditional qualifications, we are here to support you.
Our qualified and friendly advisers are available to provide free and impartial information, advice and guidance by email and telephone. We are Matrix accredited too.
Send us your enquiry below and we will arrange a convenient time to discuss your interests and options.
We are also happy to meet you in person at University Square Stratford. Give our IAG team a call on 0208 223 4354.
Choose the Path That Matches Your Experience
I Have No Formal Qualifications
If you do not have formal qualifications, you could still study at UEL. Many mature students apply with work or professional experience, or alternative qualifications.
Our advisers can help you explore foundation courses, Access to Higher Education pathways and other routes into university.
Are my qualifications suitable?
If it has been a while since you last studied, a Foundation Year, one of our Pre-entry Programme courses or an Access to HE Diploma could help you prepare for degree-level study. A foundation year adds an extra year at the start of your course to refresh your study skills and build your confidence before starting your full degree. An adviser will be able to discuss your options with you.
I Have Professional Experience
Your professional experience could support your application. We may accept relevant work experience in place of traditional qualifications such as A Levels or BTECs. As part of the application process, we may review your CV and invite you to an informal conversation to discuss your study options and readiness for university study.
How we can support you
The IAG service can help you:
- Choosing a course
- Understanding entry requirements
- Apply through clearing and UCAS
- Personal statement support
- Check international qualifications
- Discuss your next steps
- And much more
We welcome all enquiries and are here to answer your questions.
Entry Requirements Made Simple
We understand that qualifications are only one part of your experience. If you do not have recent A Levels or BTECs, we may consider other experience as part of your application.
Work experience, caring responsibilities and volunteering can demonstrate valuable skills that support university study.
If you are returning to education after a break, our pre-entry programmes, including New Beginnings and Foundation Years, can help you prepare for degree-level study and provide an alternative route into university.
The Reality for Mature Learners
What You Might Think You Need
- Recent A levels or high UCAS tariff points
What You Actually Need
One of the following:
- Relevant work or life experience
- Completion of a short pre-entry course
- Willingness to start with a Foundation Year
Student stories
Hear how mature students balanced study, work and personal commitments while preparing for university.
Natasha – Introduction to Law
'All these people are going to think that law is not a career for me because lawyers are posh, white, upper-class old men.’
Hear from Natasha on how she approached studying at UEL as a mature student. The Introduction to Law short course is a unique way to apply for a law degree, even if you don’t have formal qualifications.
Next Steps
Find out how to choose your course, explore your support options, and apply to study at UEL.
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Choose your course
Find a course that matches your goals, experience and interests.
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Speak to an Adviser
Get personalised guidance on applications, funding and returning to study. Talk to our team about your options and next steps.
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Apply to UEL
Ready to begin your journey? Start your application and take the next step towards university study at UEL.
Ready to take the next step? You don't have to figure this out alone.
Enquire now to speak with an adviserFAQs
Our experienced and qualified Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) advisers are trained to answer your questions and to help you make plans that will work for you. Here are some of the questions you have asked.
I am thinking of a career change. What qualifications do I need to get on a degree course?
This depends on your individual situation and what you want to study. We can help you review what you already have and what you might need to meet the requirements for courses. For example, maybe start with a short course that gives you the foundation to then start your degree. Your previous qualifications may be enough to get you on to a postgraduate course.
I left school with no qualifications. Can I come to university?
In the IAG service we see very many people come back to education after time away either working or raising a family. The good news is that there are options open to you to get you ready to study for a degree course. For example, Pre-entry programmes at the University of East London, Access to Higher Education courses at further education colleges or a preparatory or foundation year of a degree course. Why not speak to an adviser to find out more?
What types of degree courses are there?
Undergraduate degrees, also known as Bachelor or first degrees, can be 3 years (or 4 years with a Foundation year). There are also some 4 year degrees that include a postgraduate award such as an MSc (quite common for subjects like engineering).
After a first degree, it is possible next to do a Master's degree, normally 1 or 2 years long. Beyond an MA/MSc there is research and perhaps a PhD degree.
I'm not sure if I can afford university. How do the fees and funding work?
Funding depends on your circumstances but normally UK and EU applicants can get a tuition fee loan (paid directly to your university) for one undergraduate degree. In addition, UK applicants can apply for a repayable maintenance loan. Other arrangements apply to international students who pay their own fees and living costs. Some bursaries and scholarships are available - check if you're eligible.
How do I apply?
For full-time undergraduate courses you apply through UCAS (University and Colleges Admissions Service). This service sends your application to up to 5 universities on your behalf. Register with UCAS, fill in a form and write a personal statement before submitting your application. See: www.ucas.com/undergraduate
For most postgraduate courses apply directly to the university except for Teacher Training (UCAS) and some professional courses. You can apply for preparatory courses at the University of East London such as Get into Nursing, Introduction to Law or New Beginnings by contacting the IAG service who will help you apply.
I am confused about which course I should study
Why not talk to an adviser who can help you consider your options? Consider whether you want to study something you know and have enjoyed or opt for something new and unfamiliar. Do you want a work-related degree - accounting, engineering, nursing, physiotherapy, social work etc, or to use a degree to make a career change?
Check courses on our course finder page and explore careers information on the Prospects website.