# Mature students

**Source**: https://study.ed.ac.uk/mature
**Parent**: https://study.ed.ac.uk/undergraduate

## Study options

### Access courses

Access courses offer a route into undergraduate study for those returning to their education.

[Access Programme: the University’s part-time programme](https://col.ed.ac.uk/our-programmes/access-programme2)  

[SWAP: the full-time Scottish Wider Access Programme](https://study.ed.ac.uk/undergraduate/access-edinburgh/adult-learners/scottish-wider-access-programme-swap)

### [Undergraduate study](https://study.ed.ac.uk/undergraduate)

We accept a range of qualifications, including Highers, access courses and Higher Nationals, to gain a place on one of our over 300 undergraduate degree programmes.

### [Postgraduate study](https://study.ed.ac.uk/postgraduate)

To study at postgraduate level, you must normally hold a degree, but we may also accept equivalent qualifications or work experience.

### [Flexible study options](https://study.ed.ac.uk/flexible-study)

If you’re not looking to study a full degree, we offer short courses, including professional development courses.

## Mature students applying for an undergraduate degree

### [Journeys and motivations of mature students](https://study.ed.ac.uk/mature/journeys-motiviations)

Mature students bring a variety and a wealth of personal and professional experience. No matter your background, you belong here.

### [Choosing a degree](https://study.ed.ac.uk/mature/choosing-degree-applying)

Applying to university starts with thinking about what you're interested in studying. The qualifications you need to apply with will depend on your chosen degree programme.

### [Fees and funding](https://study.ed.ac.uk/mature/fees-funding)

There is support from Government funding bodies and the University to help with the cost of tuition fees, living expenses and, if needed, childcare.

### [Academic life](https://study.ed.ac.uk/mature/academic-life)

Studying at university means being an independent learner. You must be self-motivated to take part in lectures and tutorials, as well as learning and assignments you must do outside the classroom.

### [University life](https://study.ed.ac.uk/mature/university-life)

You will have access to communities and societies dedicated to mature students, as well as a range of health and wellbeing support.

This article was published on
2025-10-07