Mature-age students are people over 21 who decide to attend university. Whether looking for a career change, upskilling, or personal development, there are flexible alternatives for those without a recent ATAR or school qualifications.
Here, we'll examine the mature age entry process, eligibility requirements, admission pathways, credit for prior learning, and the support services available to students embarking on their university journey later in life. If you're returning to study, this guide will help.
What Is Mature Age University Entry?
While early entry is when Year 12 students are accepted onto a university course before they get an ATAR, mature-age university entry is the pathway through which individuals over the age of 21 can access higher education without a recent ATAR or secondary school qualifications.
When considering university admission, these pathways typically recognise life experience, work history, and prior learning over recent academic achievements.
A mature-age university entry pathway is ideal for those who:
- Did not complete Year 12 or achieve a competitive ATAR.
- Are seeking a career change or professional advancement.
- Have work experience but lack formal qualifications.
- Want to return to university study after a break.
So why do universities offer this pathway?
This creates equitable access for students with diverse educational backgrounds. Rather than simply looking at a student's ATAR, genuine skills, knowledge, and experience gained outside of school are also considered.
As a way outside of the traditional academic path, mature age entry makes higher education more accessible for:
- Working professionals seeking new qualifications.
- Parents returning to study after family commitments.
- International students with non-standard education pathways.
A construction manager with over 10 years of experience but no formal degree could apply for a Bachelor of Construction Management using their industry experience instead of an ATAR.
Mature-age entry ensures that all students, regardless of their educational history, can pursue undergraduate degrees, bachelor programs, and professional qualifications.
Who Qualifies for Mature Age Entry?
While the terminology may indicate that mature-age entry is for older students than those who've just left secondary school, other eligibility criteria exist for mature-age access to university courses.
Eligibility Requirements for Mature Age Entry
To qualify for mature age entry, applicants typically need to:
- Be 21 years or older at the time of applying.
- Not have completed a recent ATAR-based secondary school qualification.
- Have relevant work experience, life skills, or prior learning.
Some universities may require basic literacy and numeracy assessments or additional entry tests like the STAT (Special Tertiary Admissions Test).
Common Backgrounds for Mature Age Applicants
While every mature age student is different, there are often common factors. Do any of these apply to you?
- Career Changers: Professionals seeking a shift into a new industry or role.
- Parents Returning to Study: Individuals re-entering education after raising a family.
- Skilled Workers: Tradespeople, technicians, or workers with on-the-job experience.
- International Students: Non-Australian residents with work history or foreign qualifications.
- Returning Learners: Those with a study gap but wish to complete a degree.
A nursing assistant applying for a Bachelor of Nursing through work experience after years in the healthcare industry.
International Student Considerations
International students can also be considered for the mature age entry pathway. Still, there are usually some extra requirements they need to meet.
- Provide evidence of English language proficiency.
- Have qualifications equivalent to Australian secondary education.
- Submit additional documents like work experience portfolios.
All in all, mature age entry means that more people can access university courses by recognising skills and prior learning in the same way as academic achievements.
Pathways for Mature Age University Entry
Mature-age university entry is one pathway into university. Did you know there are several different mature-age entry pathways?
Here are some of the pathways for gaining entry into university courses without a standard ATAR.
1. Direct Entry Without an ATAR
Some universities offer direct entry for mature-age students based on the following:
- Age eligibility (21 years or older).
- Completion of a university application form.
- Evidence of relevant work experience or prior study.
Best For
- Applicants with work experience but no formal academic results.
2. Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT)
The STAT is a standardised test assessing:
- Verbal reasoning
- Numeracy skills
- Written communication
Key Details
- Accepted by most Australian universities, including the University of Sydney and Deakin University.
- Suitable for those without formal academic qualifications.
Best For
- Mature age students needing to demonstrate academic readiness.
3. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) evaluates a student’s professional experience, skills, and qualifications.
How RPL Works
Applicants submit documents such as:
- Work history
- Industry certifications
- Training records
Some universities may grant credit exemptions for previously completed units.
Best For
- Applicants with relevant work history seeking credit recognition.
4. TAFE and Vocational Education (VET) Pathways
TAFE and VET qualifications can be a direct route into university, especially with:
- Certificate IV
- Diploma
- Advanced Diploma
How It Works
- Many TAFE diplomas offer credit transfer into bachelor degrees.
- Example: A Diploma of Business → Bachelor of Business Administration.
Best For
- Students with VET qualifications seeking university entry.
5. Bridging and Foundation Courses
These preparation programs are designed to help students develop academic skills before starting a degree.
Examples
- Open Foundation Program (Newcastle University)
- University Preparation Program (Griffith University)
Best For
- Applicants returning to study after a long break.
6. Portfolio and Work Experience Entry
- For certain creative degrees or professional fields, universities may accept a portfolio of work or evidence of professional experience instead of standard qualifications.
Common Courses
- Visual Arts
- Design and Architecture
- Media and Communication
Best For
- Creative applicants showcasing work samples.
- Professionals applying for industry-specific degrees.
Benefits of Mature Age Entry
Enrolling in university as a mature age student means you can enjoy the personal, professional, and academic benefits of a university degree.
This also means you can gain formal qualifications, acquire new skills aligned with industry demands, and secure higher-paying roles or leadership positions.
Thanks to part-time, evening, weekend, and online courses, mature-age students, especially parents or those with other work commitments, can complete a bachelor's degree part-time or online.
While at university, you'll also have opportunities to make professional connections with peers, mentors, and industry experts and gain access to internships, work placements, and university career events.
How to Apply for Mature-Age University Entry
Usually, mature-age university entry includes a structured process to recognise work experience, prior learning, and alternative qualifications.
Here's a simplified version of the process.
1. Check the Entry Requirements
Confirm the minimum age requirement.
Identify if you qualify for direct entry, RPL, or need to sit the STAT.
Verify English language proficiency.
2. Choose the Right Entry Pathway
There are various entry pathways. Choose the one that's best for your experience and academic background.
- Direct Entry Without ATAR.
- Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT).
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
- VET and TAFE Pathways.
- Bridging/Foundation Programs.
- Portfolio and Work Experience Entry.
Student advisors can help you determine the most suitable pathway if you're unsure.
3. Gather Required Documents
Without an ATAR, universities will typically require mature-age students to provide other supporting documents.
These may include (but are not limited to):
- Proof of Age (driver’s license, birth certificate).
- Resume/CV highlighting work experience.
- Certificates and Transcripts from prior qualifications.
- RPL Portfolio showcasing professional achievements.
- Letters of Recommendation from employers or mentors.
Ensure documents are up-to-date and clearly demonstrate your skills and experience.
4. Complete the Application Form
Submit your application through the relevant admission centre or directly via the university's portal:
- UAC (Universities Admissions Centre – NSW).
- VTAC (Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre).
- QTAC (Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre).
- Direct Applications via the university’s website.
Some universities may have different deadlines for mature age entry than standard applications.
5. Submit and Track Your Application
Once you submit your application, you can track its process.
- Confirm receipt via the university portal.
- Track your application progress.
- Be prepared for interviews or follow-ups if required.
6. Accept Your Offer and Enroll
If your application is successful, then you can move on to the final steps (before the actual course, that is!):
- Accept your offer through the university portal.
- Complete the enrollment process.
- Arrange course fees through options like FEE-HELP or HECS-HELP.
Applying for mature age entry requires careful planning. Research all the requirements, get the right documents, and pick the best pathway for your academic and professional goals.
It's never too late to go to university, and mature age entry means that anybody can, provided they have the right skills and experience.
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