Take the plunge and return to studies

There are many reasons adults over age 25 return to further education.

Some are planning a career change or need new skills or credentials to move up in their career. Others enroll for personal development or after there has been a change in their life situation.

You may be deciding on a brand new career path and want to take the first steps on that journey with a completely new direction to follow.

There are a number of things to consider: • Identify what your reasons are for going to college or university. • Consider the pros and cons. • Be realistic about the time commitment and energy involved in taking classes. • Figure out how you will pay for tuition, books, and other expenses. • Do your homework about programs and schools to find the right fit. • Decide whether you want to

go part time, full time, or take

online classes. • Explore options to earn college credit from prior learning or by exam. • Think about if you want to enter a multiyear program, or take an accelerated, shorter program. There are many factors that may affect the decision to return to university after a long period away from study and there are particular some challenges in particular faced by those who do not choose the traditional role of going straight to university after school.

The financial implications of going to university for mature students are tremendously serious, just as they are for eighteen year olds.

All undergraduate students can apply for a maintenance loan from the LEA if you study full time.

If you have extra expenses such as dependent children or if you are disabled you may be entitled to a Disabled Student’s Allowance or Parents Learning Allowance.

Particular universities and departments also offer bursaries depending on the degree and subject area you are interested in.

Contact someone in the admissions office or the department you are applying to. You might also find information on the university website.

For many mature students one popular option is to study part time.

Part-time students usually pay per module and (if they are UK students) can ask their Local Authority for help in the form of a fee grant.

If you want to study for a different sort of qualification (such as NVQ or BTEC) then you may be eligible for an adult learning grant.

Look out for college open days and talk to the experts and advisors at the college who can advise you on the best path.