Thinking of returning to education at the age of 19 or over?
No matter where you are in your journey, we’re confident that we can support you through your next adventure.
We welcome all students from all ages and backgrounds. Study something you are passionate about and grow your skills to help reach that next stage in achieving your life’s goals.
Returning to learning?
We have a dedicated member of staff to support you, whatever questions you might have about university life.
- Which providers of level 2 and 3 qualifications will help you gain entry into university?
- What is life like for mature students at UEA, including services and social activities?
- Is there support, advice and guidance for current students?
- Student finance, bursaries and other funding-related queries
Let Gemma at maturestudents@uea.ac.uk know what you would like help with, and they'll get back to you.
Social
Just like all our students, you will have so many opportunities to make the most out of your university experience. Whether you are juggling the demands of family and study, extra-curricular activities can help enhance your experience during your studies. Meet like-minded people, add to your CV or just have fun! You can do it all here.
The Students' Union holds many events specifically for mature students. These include:
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Students' Union clubs and societies open to all students. You can also start your own! Visit the Opportunities Fayre to find out more about activities for over 21s,. These currently include: yoga, football, open mic nights and a weekly quiz
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Mature students peer support group – run by mature students to provide a community and support
As a mature student you get access to the postgraduate facilities on campus: the Scholar’s Bar and Kitchen.
Contact: union.postgrads@uea.ac.uk with your age, UEA username (e.g. abc12xyz), and ask for access or just come and talk to uea(su) reception upstairs in Union House.
Support
We understand that your decision to re-enter education is not an easy one. We’re here to help.
Our student support services are committed to the well-being of all students and their varying needs. They can offer guidance to any student who wishes to make the most out of the opportunities available to them here, or those experiencing difficulties. These include:
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financial advice - the UEA Students' Union have some great advice and you can also try out the cash flow budget tool
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student life advisors
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disability advice
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counselling service
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in-faculty support (embedded teams)
We also have on-campus facilities such as the medical centre and dental practicve, nursery, and Sportspark.
You can also receive academic support from:
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peer-assisted Learning (PAL)
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sabbatical officers, including a part-time officer for mature students
Prepare for university
We offer a free online course - Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) - to help you explore the essential needs for success at university. Your learning will be supported by online forums and discussions, where you will also gain tips on how to cope with a different learning environment.