Returning to study – navigating university life as a mature student
Heading back into education after time away can feel surreal. One minute you’re managing deadlines at work, family responsibilities or mortgage payments; the next, you’re juggling seminars, lecture notes and reading lists.
If that’s you, you’re not alone. Mature students are a significant part of the UK student population, with over 50,000 securing a place this year alone, according to the latest UCAS figures.
Their experiences vary from person to person. Some study full-time, others part-time and while some attend campus, many choose distance learning.
So what can you expect when you return to university later in life, and how can you set yourself up for success?
Making time for study
Time is one of the biggest challenges mature students face.
You may be working part-time, picking up children from school or caring for a parent. That doesn’t leave much space for long afternoons or all-nighters in the library.
Instead, studying often means reading on your commute, watching a lecture recording after bedtime routines, or squeezing in an essay plan during a quiet Sunday morning.
That’s where the Kortext study app can help. With eBooks available on your phone, tablet or laptop, you can study anywhere, anytime, making it perfect for studying around work or family responsibilities.
Building confidence with technology
Navigating unfamiliar digital platforms, online resources and e-learning tools can be daunting.
But small wins add up and before long those tools become second nature.
- Start small: log in, find your reading list and open your course content
- Explore features gradually: search within e-books and access content offline
- Try accessibility features: switch to night mode for late-night sessions.
Remember, your university library, IT team and even lecturers are ready to answer any questions you may have. Many universities run digital skills workshops at the start of the term and attending one or two can save hours of frustration later on.
Tackling assignments
Academic skills like essay writing, critical thinking and referencing can take time to build, but most students find their confidence grows faster than they expect.
To ease yourself in, start with the basics:
- Reread the essay guidance your university provides
- Practise outlining your arguments before writing
- Get familiar with referencing software if it’s available.
With Kortext, you can add study notes to your eBooks. And, when deadlines loom, having notes, highlights and our citation tool all in one place can help you stay focused without feeling overwhelmed.
Remember that improvement is part of the process; you’re not expected to write like a seasoned academic overnight!
Managing the financial impact
Finances weigh heavily for many mature students. Tuition fees, travel costs, childcare and reduced work hours can quickly add up.
Budgeting is key. Make a clear plan for your income, expenses and course costs. If you require further financial support, it’s worth exploring bursaries and scholarships.
If money becomes a concern, don’t keep it to yourself. Universities have dedicated support services for financial advice and funding.
Reaching out sooner rather than later can make all the difference.
Finding your place
As a mature student, it can be easy to feel out of place amongst those who are fresh out of school, with some experiencing independence for the first time.
If you do feel out of place, university communities are bigger and more varied than they appear on the surface. Look for mature student welcome events, clubs and societies to meet like-minded people.
For many, balancing life, work and study can be draining and affect their mental health. If you’re ever struggling, don’t hesitate to contact your university to access the support they offer.
You can also find mental health advice and services from our partners at Student Minds. What’s more, you can access their dedicated portal, Student Space, directly from a link in the Kortext study platform.
Looking to the future
Nobody chooses to return to study lightly. It’s a serious investment of time, energy and money. But the rewards are equally serious: new qualifications, improved job prospects, personal growth and the satisfaction of achieving something you once thought out of reach.
Wherever your journey leads, Kortext can help make it smoother, with powerful tools that help make the most of your study time. But it’s your determination and experience that will carry you through.
You’re not just earning credits; you’re reshaping your future on your own terms and proving that it’s never too late to learn.
Log in to explore the Kortext library today.
For further help and support, take a look at our student guide, videos and FAQs.
