Mature Students

It's never too late to start your university journey. Whether you're returning to education after some time away or you're hoping to take your career in a different direction, we welcome applications from mature students (anyone over the age of 21) to apply for our courses.

Queen's University uses the HESA definition of mature students with undergraduates classed as "mature if they are 21 or over." We particularly encourage applications from mature students, and we welcome on average approximately 800 new students every year.

Mature student looking at phone while sitting at table

Life as a Mature Student at Queen's

Here at Queen's University Belfast, mature students make up approximately 10% of the total undergraduate population.

We understand the wide range of reasons why students may pursue education later in life, and whatever the reason, we are here to support you.

Find out what life is really like as a mature student at Queen's University:

Nursing student with female baby in hospital style setting

How To Survive Being a Nursing Student and a Parent

My Experience of Being a Romanian Student at Queen’s

Pursuing My Passions at Queen's University Belfast

Students sitting together in seating area in accommodation

Join the Mature Students Society

Male student writing in room in Graduate School

How to apply for an undergraduate degree

All students, including mature students, can apply for undergraduate degrees in the UK through UCAS.

For more information on how to apply for an undergraduate degree at Queen's, visit our how to apply guide where we have detailed everything from navigating the application process to your first day at Queen's.

There's more than one route to university in Northern Ireland

If you're worried about not having the right grades for an undergraduate degree, you still have plenty of options.

You can study a foundation degree or other higher education qualification at one of Northern Ireland's six further education colleges or local institutions, then progress to complete your degree at Queen's.

Routes to University

How to finance your studies as a mature student

Financing university is a concern for many mature students, however, as a mature student you may be eligible to apply for student finance.

The amount of funding you will receive will depend on factors such as household income, whether you're studying full or part-time, and whether you already have a degree.

Financing university

FIND OUT MORE

Student support room in One Elmwood building

Student Financial Support

Queen's also has a range of student support funds to help students. You can find full details of them by clicking here.

Scholarships

Uversity offers scholarships for mature students entering undergraduate study for the first time. Applications for these scholarships open early February, and more information can be found here.

Work while studying

Students who wish to work while studying can check out QWork, our a platform that advertises a range of flexible, part-time on campus jobs that students can apply for.

The Wellbeing Room in the Main Site Tower

Looking after your wellbeing

Student wellbeing is important to us.

As a mature student, you might face some challenges when returning to education and we have the support available to help you with the transition.

We also have childcare support options for both our staff and students, with student rates available.

Find out more about our support services.