Returning to Study as a Mature-Age Student

Returning to study as a mature-age student is a stellar opportunity to advance your career. Whether you’re returning after having kids, seeking a career change, or upskilling your talents to aim for a promotion, studying remains an enriching experience regardless of age.

However, there’s a good chance you’re feeling a sense of trepidation, especially if you’re returning to study after a long break. Now that you’re older, you likely have other responsibilities – like a job or a family – to balance with your new studies.

Plus, you might feel uncertain about the technology needed to complete the curriculum. While these concerns are valid, returning to study as a mature student is easier than you might think.

Monarch Institute offers highly flexible, online courses designed for students irrespective of age. With us, you’ll benefit from ongoing support and exceptional courses led by industry experts that prepare students for their career’s next role.

Deciding to return to study as a mature-age student

Returning to study after a long break isn’t always a straightforward decision, with older students worried about their age, the enrolment process and whether they’re making the right move for their future. Below, we’ve addressed these common concerns to help mature-age students overcome their uncertainties.

Is it too late to return to study?

You’re never too old to learn something new. If you want to make a change from your current career or wish to return to the workforce after a long break, enrolling in an in-depth course is a great way to streamline your journey.

Being older can also be an advantage when studying. You might have a greater understanding of your life’s priorities or have gathered a wealth of useful skills over the years that can inform your newfound direction.

Why do older people return to study?

There’s no shortage of reasons for returning to study as a mature student. You might have taken a break from your career to raise your children, but now you have the time to return to work. Perhaps your existing career just isn’t as satisfying as it once was.

Returning to study is also a great way to increase the speed of your career progression, as you can learn skills that complement your talents. For some, deciding to return to study is simply about exploring their passion for self-improvement.

What do mature students need to qualify?

Monarch Institute’s courses are open to mature-age students who are Australian citizens, permanent residents of Australia, or New Zealand citizens. While many of our qualifications have no formal prerequisites, others have entry requirements used to assess applicants.

If you don’t meet these requirements, our talented course consultants can help create a pathway that enables your enrolment in the future. Meanwhile, we ask students to fulfil some basic requirements, like having access to the internet and a working computer.

Tips for returning to study as a mature-age student

Ready to study again? Doing so as a mature-age student is much simpler with a little preparation. Here, we’ve covered a few tips that ease your return to the books and help you complete your qualification with confidence.

Create a study schedule

As an older student, there’s a good chance your schedule is more jam-packed than most. You might have kids to care for or work a full-time job on top of your studies. Rather than spontaneously hitting the books when you have a spare moment, creating a detailed study schedule can help you focus and navigate your other commitments.

To begin, think about how many hours you have per week to study. Then, consider the time of the day when you can usually focus on yourself, such as after the kids have gone to bed. It’s important to remain realistic throughout this process, especially if your schedule is prone to change on short notice.

Get the right technology

Studying online allows for great flexibility. However, you can’t expect to maximise what you get from your course if you don’t have the right technology to assist your learning. This means having a reliable computer alongside a suitable internet connection will help avoid frustration. While you shouldn’t spend a fortune, upgrading where necessary could be wise.

Some qualifications might also require students to have access to certain software, which you might be unfamiliar with. If you don’t consider yourself particularly tech-savvy, getting up to speed with these tools will make your life much easier. Ask our trainers what you need to know ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss out when taking your course.

Connect with your cohort

Making the most of your studies goes beyond just learning the course material. It’s also about connecting with students and tutors, people who can help when you get stuck or even shape your future in the industry. Even when you study online, getting to know your cohort is a rewarding experience.

When you study at Monarch Institute, you’ll receive ongoing support from our course trainers who are more than happy to jump on a Zoom call whenever necessary. Plus, we provide access to student Facebook groups where you can discuss course material and stay in touch during and after your studies.

Study as a mature-age student at Monarch Institute today

There’s never a bad time to increase your knowledge and talent. Enrol in a course at Monarch Institute today and benefit from flexible, online qualifications taught by industry-leading figures. Speak to one of our friendly course consultants to discover everything you need to know.

Related resources

If you’re ready to return to studying after a long break, enrolling in a course at Monarch Institute is a stellar move for your future. Head to our blog to discover insightful advice that informs your success.

FAQs

Do mature-age students need an ATAR?

Mature students don’t have to worry about having an ATAR when enrolling in courses at Monarch Institute. However, some more advanced qualifications may have other entry requirements, such as relevant workplace experience or a certification in a related field.

Can mature-age students access government funding?

Yes, mature-age students may be able to access government funding depending on the course, the location and the specific situation. If you’re not eligible for government funding, concessional prices may be available to Health or Pension Card holders.