QHow will I mix with a room full of 18 year old students?
AThere are many older students taking degrees and once you get started your age becomes irrelevant. One of the ways of fitting in is to remember that you are all in the same situation. 18 year old students are as nervous as 70 year old students when they first start. You will soon make new friends who will help you through the years of study.
QI don't have the right qualifications to get into University, what can I do about it?
AFind out from the University prospectus and/or the admissions tutor for the course you are interested in what qualifications they will accept.
Two ways of getting on to a full-time degree course is to:
a) find an Access programme locally. In Northamptonshire these can be found at: Tresham Institute and Northampton College. Most University courses accept an Access certificate as a route into Higher Education.
b) Take A levels (or equivalent) at a local Further Education College.
QWho can I talk to and find out more about the course I am interested in?
AChat with the admissions team of the Universities you are applying to and find out if you have the right entry qualifications for the course you would like to study.
QWill I have the attributes to study at Higher Education?
AMany people are able to study at Higher Education although it is very demanding and is the same for students of any age. The excellent skills and attributes mature students display are not always recognised by themselves and may deter them from study in Higher Education.
QI am worried about coping with studying, my family and my job.
AIt is important to make sure that the balance is right. Make time for all of the different aspects of your life. Mature students are very good at doing this but if you feel you are unable to cope you can talk to the Student Services in your chosen learning environment.
QWhere can I study?
AWhen you are a student you will have lots of private study whether this is at Higher Education or in a course preparing for University entry. All Colleges have quiet study areas for your use. As an alternative or in addition it is a good idea to identify an area in your home as your study area where you can leave your books and papers where they can be readily accessed.
QCan I go into the Student Union as a mature student?
AThe Student Union is open to all students and you may find there is a society for Mature Students where you are studying. There maybe a society you want to join or you may want to get together with other likeminded students and start your own society.
QCan I afford to study at Higher Education?
AStudying to get a degree is a major investment in yourself. Your earnings following graduation will no doubt increase and your confidence in your abilities will certainly improve. All students struggle to manage financially but help is available through Student Services who can signpost you towards help for either managing your income and budgeting or by debt management if this is appropriate.
QWhat are the type of costs when studying?
AThere are two main types of expenses and these are tuition fees and personal living expenses (which can include childcare). You can receive help for both of these type of expenses through grants, bursaries and student loans. Information about this can be found by talking to Student Services at a College, your Local Authority or Aimhigher.
QCan I work whilst I study?
AMany students have a part-time job when they are studying as they find it helps to supplement their living costs. It is recommended that students in full-time study do not work more than 15 hours per week on top of their studies. Most Universities have links for gaining part time employment. There are also the long University holidays when you can also work.
