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?
It is perfectly natural to have questions about returning to education, especially when you may already have other considerations and responsibilities in life. At UEA, we are firm believers that education should be inclusive for everyone, and we want to help you find your own path to where you want to be.
Our Widening Participation Officer for Mature Students, Gem, is here to help you along the way, providing information, advice and guidance on each step of your journey - even if it’s just answering those initial burning questions to help you decide if higher education is the right step for 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.
Throughout the academic cycle, we’re dedicated to providing you with information to help you make the best, most informed decisions. We will be running online sessions on:
- Student Finance and what to expect after you apply for a course through UCAS
- Student information sessions to help you understand what non-academic opportunities exist. You’ll also get to meet two of our current mature students and ask questions about their experience.
This year, we are introducing a session called ‘pathways into university’, where we will provide information about Access to Higher Education Diplomas, Foundation years and clearing.
Our Student 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 through Student Services
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UEA Students' Union have some great advice on a range of different topics
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We also have on-campus facilities such as the Medical Centre and Dental Practice, 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