Mature Students

Mature students make up around a third of our undergraduate community and make a valued contribution to life at the University.

Mature What is a Mature Student?

The term 'mature student' is used to describe anyone who is considering applying to university for the first time and who has had a break from education and/or who is applying with non-traditional qualifications.

Our community of students really does span the generations and we welcome applications from people of any age. Bradford has a good reputation for supporting mature students and has pioneered many initiatives to ensure that the large number of mature students who choose to study here are welcomed and helped to succeed.

Activities

We offer a range of activities designed to help you to prepare to study and plan your return to education.

Applying as a mature student talk

A presentation that outlines the application process from start to finish; focusing on what admissions tutors look for from mature students as well as guidance in selecting a course and institution. Where possible, mature students will be on hand to give their perspective on life as an undergraduate students. Email us to find out details of the next session available.

Taster Days

The University of Bradford offers a range of taster days to potential students to enable them to experience a course before they apply. Full details of these activities can be found at: www.bradford.ac.uk/compact

Interview Skills

Interview skills workshops are available for students who have applied to study at the University and who want to brush up their interview skills to help them secure a place. The dates are advertised on www.bradford.ac.uk/compact or alternatively contact the Education Liaison team for more details.

Try a module

Rather than applying for a full award, such as a degree, you can try out a module first through our Associate Student Scheme . You can choose to study individual or groups of modules for interest or professional development. You gain credit for all modules you pass and these can be used towards university awards.

Welcome Event - Refreshers

As a way of easing mature students into University life, the University organises a special Refreshers event for mature students in September just before the start of term. At this event there will be the opportunity to meet current students, University staff as well as other new students like yourself.

Invitation letters are emailed to students in August and can also be obtained by emailing the Education Liaison Team: education-liaison@bradford.ac.uk once your place at the University has been confirmed.

Our Students Say . . .

"When I came to study here I was a few years older than some of the other students. At first this was a little strange, for example the group had slightly different topics of conversation than what I was used to. But within a couple of weeks things had settled down and everyone got on well together. I'd say to any new mature students that you’ll be in the same boat as nearly every other new student, so don't be scared to approach people and start talking!"

Asraf Jogi - graduated with a Foundation in Clinical Sciences and Medicine and now studying for a degree in medicine.