Mature student looking for advice/inspiration.
Hi all,
I’m 29, living in Essex, with my wife and stepson. I left college at 20 because I struggled a lot with chronic mental health issues, and since then, I’ve been unfit for work due to those same health problems. I currently rely on benefits to get by.
A few years ago, I discovered programming and decided to teach myself while I’ve been unable to work. It’s been a challenging but rewarding journey, and I’ve managed to achieve some notable things—like working on a zero-hour contract for a small company and deploying websites for larger corporate clients.
I’m confident that this is the career I want to pursue long-term, but I’d really like to push myself further by studying at a University level. It’s something I’m genuinely passionate about.
A friend recommended Anglia Ruskin University, but from what I can see, their Computer Science courses are now based in Cambridge. That’s about an hour’s drive each way for me, which feels like a lot if I’d have to make the trip several times a week.
I’m unsure how realistic this would be for someone in my position. Petrol costs could really add up—do students get any sort of support with travel expenses? Is it even feasible for a student on a tight budget to commute that much by car?
As mentioned, I have long-term mental health conditions. Is there any specific support available for students who might need extra help in that regard?
As for qualifications, I believe I left college with either half an A-level or maybe just one full A-level from over ten years ago. Would I need to complete an access course to meet the entry requirements for A-levels, or is a foundation year the equivalent of this?
Lastly, from your own experience, how often are students generally expected to be on campus? Does the timetable tend to spread lectures across the week, or are they often grouped into fewer days?
I’d really appreciate any advice or insights you might have—especially if you’ve been in a similar situation.
Thanks so much for taking the time to read this.
All the best,
David
I’m 29, living in Essex, with my wife and stepson. I left college at 20 because I struggled a lot with chronic mental health issues, and since then, I’ve been unfit for work due to those same health problems. I currently rely on benefits to get by.
A few years ago, I discovered programming and decided to teach myself while I’ve been unable to work. It’s been a challenging but rewarding journey, and I’ve managed to achieve some notable things—like working on a zero-hour contract for a small company and deploying websites for larger corporate clients.
I’m confident that this is the career I want to pursue long-term, but I’d really like to push myself further by studying at a University level. It’s something I’m genuinely passionate about.
A friend recommended Anglia Ruskin University, but from what I can see, their Computer Science courses are now based in Cambridge. That’s about an hour’s drive each way for me, which feels like a lot if I’d have to make the trip several times a week.
I’m unsure how realistic this would be for someone in my position. Petrol costs could really add up—do students get any sort of support with travel expenses? Is it even feasible for a student on a tight budget to commute that much by car?
As mentioned, I have long-term mental health conditions. Is there any specific support available for students who might need extra help in that regard?
As for qualifications, I believe I left college with either half an A-level or maybe just one full A-level from over ten years ago. Would I need to complete an access course to meet the entry requirements for A-levels, or is a foundation year the equivalent of this?
Lastly, from your own experience, how often are students generally expected to be on campus? Does the timetable tend to spread lectures across the week, or are they often grouped into fewer days?
I’d really appreciate any advice or insights you might have—especially if you’ve been in a similar situation.
Thanks so much for taking the time to read this.
All the best,
David
Original post by Stillwisp
Hi all,
I’m 29, living in Essex, with my wife and stepson. I left college at 20 because I struggled a lot with chronic mental health issues, and since then, I’ve been unfit for work due to those same health problems. I currently rely on benefits to get by.
A few years ago, I discovered programming and decided to teach myself while I’ve been unable to work. It’s been a challenging but rewarding journey, and I’ve managed to achieve some notable things—like working on a zero-hour contract for a small company and deploying websites for larger corporate clients.
I’m confident that this is the career I want to pursue long-term, but I’d really like to push myself further by studying at a University level. It’s something I’m genuinely passionate about.
A friend recommended Anglia Ruskin University, but from what I can see, their Computer Science courses are now based in Cambridge. That’s about an hour’s drive each way for me, which feels like a lot if I’d have to make the trip several times a week.
I’m unsure how realistic this would be for someone in my position. Petrol costs could really add up—do students get any sort of support with travel expenses? Is it even feasible for a student on a tight budget to commute that much by car?
As mentioned, I have long-term mental health conditions. Is there any specific support available for students who might need extra help in that regard?
As for qualifications, I believe I left college with either half an A-level or maybe just one full A-level from over ten years ago. Would I need to complete an access course to meet the entry requirements for A-levels, or is a foundation year the equivalent of this?
Lastly, from your own experience, how often are students generally expected to be on campus? Does the timetable tend to spread lectures across the week, or are they often grouped into fewer days?
I’d really appreciate any advice or insights you might have—especially if you’ve been in a similar situation.
Thanks so much for taking the time to read this.
All the best,
David
I’m 29, living in Essex, with my wife and stepson. I left college at 20 because I struggled a lot with chronic mental health issues, and since then, I’ve been unfit for work due to those same health problems. I currently rely on benefits to get by.
A few years ago, I discovered programming and decided to teach myself while I’ve been unable to work. It’s been a challenging but rewarding journey, and I’ve managed to achieve some notable things—like working on a zero-hour contract for a small company and deploying websites for larger corporate clients.
I’m confident that this is the career I want to pursue long-term, but I’d really like to push myself further by studying at a University level. It’s something I’m genuinely passionate about.
A friend recommended Anglia Ruskin University, but from what I can see, their Computer Science courses are now based in Cambridge. That’s about an hour’s drive each way for me, which feels like a lot if I’d have to make the trip several times a week.
I’m unsure how realistic this would be for someone in my position. Petrol costs could really add up—do students get any sort of support with travel expenses? Is it even feasible for a student on a tight budget to commute that much by car?
As mentioned, I have long-term mental health conditions. Is there any specific support available for students who might need extra help in that regard?
As for qualifications, I believe I left college with either half an A-level or maybe just one full A-level from over ten years ago. Would I need to complete an access course to meet the entry requirements for A-levels, or is a foundation year the equivalent of this?
Lastly, from your own experience, how often are students generally expected to be on campus? Does the timetable tend to spread lectures across the week, or are they often grouped into fewer days?
I’d really appreciate any advice or insights you might have—especially if you’ve been in a similar situation.
Thanks so much for taking the time to read this.
All the best,
David
In terms of financial help, you would need to apply for student finance for both the tuition fee loan and maintenance fee loan. You can get an idea of what you might get by using the calculator:
https://www.gov.uk/student-finance-calculator
The following website is also a good resource:
https://www.turn2us.org.uk/get-support/information-for-your-situation/full-time-students-and-benefits/who-is-a-full-time-student-for-benefit-purposes
Unis also offer bursaries for low-income students so search the uni website for details.
An Access to HE diploma is a popular choice for mature students who have been out of education for a while or who don't have any level three qualifications. You can get an advanced learner loan to study an access course, which will be written off if you progress to complete a degree course.
https://www.accesstohe.ac.uk/about-access
https://www.accesstohe.ac.uk/about-access/about-the-diploma/fees-funding
https://www.gov.uk/advanced-learner-loan
Foundation years might be an option but you need to check the entry requirements carefully on the course webpage - some unis will still require level 3 (A level or equivalent) qualifications. You can call or email admissions departments to check what is required of mature students if it is not clear on the course page. Also, check the GCSE requirements for the course - these are usually mandatory.
Use the UCAS website to search for courses that might be closer to you - you can filter by region. For example, Essex uni offers computer science (with an option for a foundation year) at its Colchester campus:
https://www.essex.ac.uk/courses/UG00069/2/BSc-Computer-Science
https://digital.ucas.com/coursedisplay/
For details about the courses, attend an open day at the uni and/or email the department and ask for a copy of this year's timetable. It will give you an idea of what to expect from the course in terms of number of lectures, etc.
Hi
Since you have mental health conditions that have limited you for more than 12 months (long term) you may be entitled go DSA which help with funding your equipment such as laptop and printer (for proof reading) by applying via student finance England. You need to fill out DSA application and get A letter from your doctor or health professional which explains how your condition impacts your daily life and limits/challenges as well as from leaving your home and getting tasks done as often or complete as you like for example. Since you may be eligible for this due to your health condition you can also use the same letter to apply for distance learning courses and be supported with a maintenance as well as tuition loan. Also, its amazing and positive to hear that you are still trying despite the challenges you may face.
Your story has inspired me to also stay resilient as I have faced the same struggles with my health conditions. I completed my degree 2 years ago. The advice I would give to you is limit your costs as much as possible, choose a course you're passionate in and brings you a form or fulfilment or joy, but also distance or online learning may give you more of a flexible and enjoyable option.
It's also worth researching other universities more local to you, and companies that sponsor or provide degree apprenticeship. You can find degree apprenticeships on gov website but also general search.
I wish you all the best on your journey!
Since you have mental health conditions that have limited you for more than 12 months (long term) you may be entitled go DSA which help with funding your equipment such as laptop and printer (for proof reading) by applying via student finance England. You need to fill out DSA application and get A letter from your doctor or health professional which explains how your condition impacts your daily life and limits/challenges as well as from leaving your home and getting tasks done as often or complete as you like for example. Since you may be eligible for this due to your health condition you can also use the same letter to apply for distance learning courses and be supported with a maintenance as well as tuition loan. Also, its amazing and positive to hear that you are still trying despite the challenges you may face.
Your story has inspired me to also stay resilient as I have faced the same struggles with my health conditions. I completed my degree 2 years ago. The advice I would give to you is limit your costs as much as possible, choose a course you're passionate in and brings you a form or fulfilment or joy, but also distance or online learning may give you more of a flexible and enjoyable option.
It's also worth researching other universities more local to you, and companies that sponsor or provide degree apprenticeship. You can find degree apprenticeships on gov website but also general search.
I wish you all the best on your journey!
Original post by Stillwisp
Hi all,
I’m 29, living in Essex, with my wife and stepson. I left college at 20 because I struggled a lot with chronic mental health issues, and since then, I’ve been unfit for work due to those same health problems. I currently rely on benefits to get by.
A few years ago, I discovered programming and decided to teach myself while I’ve been unable to work. It’s been a challenging but rewarding journey, and I’ve managed to achieve some notable things—like working on a zero-hour contract for a small company and deploying websites for larger corporate clients.
I’m confident that this is the career I want to pursue long-term, but I’d really like to push myself further by studying at a University level. It’s something I’m genuinely passionate about.
A friend recommended Anglia Ruskin University, but from what I can see, their Computer Science courses are now based in Cambridge. That’s about an hour’s drive each way for me, which feels like a lot if I’d have to make the trip several times a week.
I’m unsure how realistic this would be for someone in my position. Petrol costs could really add up—do students get any sort of support with travel expenses? Is it even feasible for a student on a tight budget to commute that much by car?
As mentioned, I have long-term mental health conditions. Is there any specific support available for students who might need extra help in that regard?
As for qualifications, I believe I left college with either half an A-level or maybe just one full A-level from over ten years ago. Would I need to complete an access course to meet the entry requirements for A-levels, or is a foundation year the equivalent of this?
Lastly, from your own experience, how often are students generally expected to be on campus? Does the timetable tend to spread lectures across the week, or are they often grouped into fewer days?
I’d really appreciate any advice or insights you might have—especially if you’ve been in a similar situation.
Thanks so much for taking the time to read this.
All the best,
David
I’m 29, living in Essex, with my wife and stepson. I left college at 20 because I struggled a lot with chronic mental health issues, and since then, I’ve been unfit for work due to those same health problems. I currently rely on benefits to get by.
A few years ago, I discovered programming and decided to teach myself while I’ve been unable to work. It’s been a challenging but rewarding journey, and I’ve managed to achieve some notable things—like working on a zero-hour contract for a small company and deploying websites for larger corporate clients.
I’m confident that this is the career I want to pursue long-term, but I’d really like to push myself further by studying at a University level. It’s something I’m genuinely passionate about.
A friend recommended Anglia Ruskin University, but from what I can see, their Computer Science courses are now based in Cambridge. That’s about an hour’s drive each way for me, which feels like a lot if I’d have to make the trip several times a week.
I’m unsure how realistic this would be for someone in my position. Petrol costs could really add up—do students get any sort of support with travel expenses? Is it even feasible for a student on a tight budget to commute that much by car?
As mentioned, I have long-term mental health conditions. Is there any specific support available for students who might need extra help in that regard?
As for qualifications, I believe I left college with either half an A-level or maybe just one full A-level from over ten years ago. Would I need to complete an access course to meet the entry requirements for A-levels, or is a foundation year the equivalent of this?
Lastly, from your own experience, how often are students generally expected to be on campus? Does the timetable tend to spread lectures across the week, or are they often grouped into fewer days?
I’d really appreciate any advice or insights you might have—especially if you’ve been in a similar situation.
Thanks so much for taking the time to read this.
All the best,
David
Hi @Stillwisp
First of all, it's brilliant that you have discovered a course you are passionate about! Secondly, as a fellow mature student with chronic health conditions who applied to study at university aged 30 years old, I know what a brave and rewarding decision that is, so well done!
Have you had a look at the course entry requirements? Usually, if it isn't clear from the website there should be contact details to ask about alternative entry requirements, so it is worth clarifying what is needed to apply for the undergraduate degree and/or a foundation course.
Next in regards to managing financially and your chronic health conditions, it sounds like you may already be receiving some benefits you would be entitled to whilst at university, but the best way to check would be to speak to DWP to find out what would change if anything if you attended university.
You may already be receiving this, but if not it is worth checking your eligibility because some students can claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP). PIP is a payment to help with extra living costs associated with a long-term physical, or mental health condition or disability if you also struggle with everyday tasks or getting around due to your health. Again, if you would like to find out more I have included a link below:
PIP Eligibility
You should be able to apply for student finance, how much you would be entitled to depends on your specific situation. Here is a link to find out more:
Student Finance England
The link below details extra financial support you could be entitled to:
Student Finance England - Extra Help
Student Finance England (SFE) is really helpful in clarifying your entitlement if you contact them directly. You can find their contact details below:
Student Finance England contact details
Then, as already mentioned you might be entitled to something called Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) which can help with study costs related to a long-term health problem, disability, or mental health condition. Your university should also have a Disability and Inclusion team who will able to support you and potentially organise a Reasonable Adjustment Plan to remove any barriers to your learning.
There is a link below to more information about DSA:
Disabled Students Allowance
In regards to the commuting have you tried contacting the university directly to ask about how this would work if you applied to study there?
Do they have any other funds to help with the cost of travel or for those on low incomes? Would you need to make this journey so frequently?
I know that is a lot of information, so please feel free to let me know if you have any questions.
Best of luck with your studies!
Lucy ☺️
(Official Uni of Salford Student Rep)
(edited 1 month ago)
Quick Reply
Related discussions
- Embracing the return to education
- Late application with little qualification
- 3 year nursing degree
- (Very) Mature Vet Student Offering Advice! (Access Courses, Applications, Parent Etc)
- No idea where to start.
- Unsure
- Mature students
- Hello! New mature student seeking art course advice
- Best MA Uni for moving image/photography
- Any VERY mature chemistry (or any science) students here
- Very mature student...... Terrified!!
- Any physiotherapy students here over 40?
- Mature student and fees/costs of living
- Seeking Advice on Starting Education Journey at 39
- Medicine EPQ
- 50-yr-old considering Master's degree - thoughts/advice?
- Mature student (60). Not too late for career change…?
- Unsure who to firm
- Anyone starting uni this year at Dundee university?
- Diagnostic Radiography Personal Statement Tips
Latest
Trending
Last reply 1 day ago
Just finished my LearnDirect course! Does anyone need help? - Access to HEMature Students
15
15
Last reply 1 week ago
(Very) Mature Vet Student Offering Advice! (Access Courses, Applications, Parent Etc)Mature Students
27
68
Last reply 3 weeks ago
Mature student applying to top universities for engineeringMature Students
10
24
Last reply 1 month ago
Would you apply to a Uni who's website didn't have any Mature Students information?
