The university think-tank million+ and the National Union of Students (NUS) have launched a new study into mature students to ensure that universities and student unions are supporting those who enter university for the first time later in life. The study will investigate the realities of life as a mature student and conclude with the publication of a best practice guide in May 2012.

The first stage of the project will be research into the experience of mature students undertaking their first degree in higher education in a survey that will run until early December.

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NUS and Million+ will also work with students' unions and institutions to identify best practice in supporting, involving and representing mature students.

Usman Ali, NUS Vice President (Higher Education) said:
“There are unique challenges and pressures for students thinking about applying to university after some time out of education and at a tumultuous time it is vital that those tensions are properly understood.

“Every prospective student is being forced to think hard about whether they are able to take on the financial strains associated with higher education and unless mature students are an active part of the thought process they risk being permanently shut out of education.”