University needn’t be a decision you make once, at eighteen. An interest can develop later. Work can suggest a new direction. Or you might simply want to find out what studying would feel like now.
You don’t have to begin with a degree application. Some universities offer short programmes where adults can try different subjects, meet other learners and get practical advice. Others provide online resources you can explore from home.
Start with a university talk
A public talk can give you a first feel for university life: exploring a subject, hearing from researchers and joining a community of people who are interested in learning.
Attend in person and you may meet students or lecturers — perhaps even people you could one day study alongside. Join online and you can experience a university talk from home. Either can help you imagine yourself as a student, whether you’re returning to education or considering it for the first time.
University study takes different forms. Depending on the course, you may be able to learn on campus, fully online or through a blend of both. As you explore, ask universities what’s available and how it could fit around your life.
Discover free university talks on Campus Croc →
You don’t need to be applying to university to attend. Choose something that interests you and see where it leads.
Try university learning
These opportunities offer different ways to begin. Some are designed for adults who have never been to university; others help people explore returning to education. Check each provider’s eligibility and current dates.
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University of Leeds · JumpStart
A taste of campus learning
Explore different subjects and build study skills alongside other adult learners. JumpStart combines evening classes with two Saturday sessions, giving you time to discover what interests you and consider your next step.
Free · In person · Eight weeks · Runs twice a year
Explore Leeds’ JumpStart course ↗University of Bristol · Building Up to Higher Education
Get comfortable with academic study
Try seminar discussions, academic writing and ways of working with evidence in a small, supportive group. Designed for local adults with little or no previous experience of university study in the UK.
Free · In person · Eligibility applies · The 2026 intake is closed
Explore Bristol’s course and future opportunities ↗University of Sheffield · Discover
Discover subjects through discussion
Subject tasters, museum activities and conversations with mature-student ambassadors offer a flavour of university learning. There is also guidance on applying and financing your studies, with no written assignments.
For adults aged 21+ without a degree · Register interest for future dates · Check costs with the provider
Explore Sheffield’s Discover course ↗University of York · Returning to Education as a Mature Student
Think through a return to education
An introductory online course about routes back into learning, the experience you bring and the support you might need. A useful starting point if you’re considering university after time away from education.
Online · Two weeks · Around four hours weekly · Free access for two weeks; upgrades cost extra
Explore York’s online course ↗The Open University · University Ready
Prepare at your own pace
Browse short activities, videos and guidance on study skills, applications and student life. Resources also explore balancing learning with work and family responsibilities.
Free online resources · Explore from home
Browse University Ready ↗University of Exeter · Mature Access Pathway
Connect college learning with university
For Access to Higher Education Diploma students at participating South West colleges, this programme brings together workshops, university experiences and support from staff and mature-student mentors.
Through participating colleges · Eligibility applies
Find out about Exeter’s Mature Access Pathway ↗Support with your next step
You may want to ask about qualifications, part-time study or how learning could fit around your existing commitments. A conversation with an adult-learning or mature-student team can help before you decide to apply.
The Office for Students’ adult learners guide ↗ explains the support universities and colleges can offer.
For individual guidance, Leeds’ Lifelong Learning Centre ↗ provides free advice on courses, applications and financial support. The University of East London ↗ also offers free, impartial advice for adults returning to education or applying without traditional qualifications.
Understanding the costs
A free taster gives you a chance to explore. If you decide to take a qualification, check course fees, living costs and the support available for your circumstances.
Funding depends on where you normally live, what you study, previous study and when your course begins. England’s arrangements are changing for most courses starting from January 2027.
- Student finance for mature students — England ↗: guidance on funding and additional support.
- England: courses starting from January 2027 ↗: the new Lifelong Learning Entitlement arrangements.
- Funding information across the UK ↗: links to the relevant national funding bodies.
Ask your chosen university about bursaries and practical support too. Its funding team can help you understand what may apply to you.