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Applying to university and been asked for a CV? Don't panic. A university CV doesn't need a fancy design or pages of information. It simply needs to give the admissions team a clear and accurate picture of your education, employment and experience. For mature students, this is especially important because your work and life experience may be just as relevant as qualifications you completed years ago. Here's what to include. 1. Personal Details Keep this simple: Full name Emai

You've applied to university and now there's one more thing standing between you and your offer: the English test. If English isn't your first language, the thought of being tested can be nerve-racking. And if you haven't studied or taken an exam for years, it can feel even worse. You might be wondering: What will they ask me? How good does my English need to be? What if I freeze during the speaking test? What happens if I don't pass? First, don't try to become fluent in Engl

For many mature students, the personal statement is one of the hardest parts of a university application. Not because you don't have anything to say. Usually, it's the opposite. You may have years of work experience, family responsibilities, qualifications from another country, previous study, career changes and life experience. The difficult part is knowing what the university actually wants to hear about. You might also be wondering: What am I supposed to write? How persona

Practical tips for building confidence, improving academic English and succeeding at university in the UK Starting university can feel intimidating for anyone. But when English isn't your first language, there can be an extra layer of worry. You may understand English well in everyday life but suddenly find yourself wondering: Will I understand the lectures? What if I make mistakes when I speak? How am I supposed to write an academic essay in English? What if I don't understa

Going back to university after years away can feel exciting and terrifying at the same time. You might be thinking: Am I too old? What if I haven't studied for years? What if everyone else is younger than me? Can I manage university alongside work and family? What if I don't have A-levels? These are completely normal questions. People return to education for many reasons. Some want to change careers. Some need a qualification to progress professionally. Others finally have th

Think university isn't an option because you don't have A-levels, have been out of education for years or studied outside the UK? A Foundation Year could be one route into higher education. Foundation Years are designed to prepare students for degree-level study. They can be particularly useful for mature students, career changers and people whose existing qualifications don't meet the requirements for direct entry to Year 1. But what exactly is a Foundation Year? Is it an ex

Northreach Education - Updated: June 2026 Starting or returning to education as a mature student can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding student finance. You might wonder if you qualify for support, what types of funding are available, and how repayment works. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about mature student finance in England, including eligibility, immigration status requirements, payment structures, and common myths. By the e