Studying as a Mature Aged Student: 5 Simple Tips to Help you!
PUBLISHED16 July 2025
WRITTEN BYAllison Roos
Going back to study can feel like a big step, especially if you’ve been out of formal education for a while, are juggling work or family responsibilities, or are considering a career change. But you’re not alone!
A mature aged student is typically someone over 18 who has been out of full-time education for more than a year. Whether you’re switching careers, upskilling, or pursuing a long-held passion, it’s never too late to learn.
To help you make a smooth transition back into study, we’ve compiled 5 simple, practical tips to support your journey.
CHOOSE FLEXIBLE STUDY OPTIONS
Look for a course provider that understands your lifestyle and commitments. Many mature-aged students benefit from online, self-paced courses. These let you learn on your own schedule and potentially complete your course faster.
Bonus Tip: The more flexible your course, the easier it is to maintain work-life-study balance.
Build A Supportive Network
Starting something new can be intimidating, but surrounding yourself with support makes a huge difference. Connect with fellow students, seek advice from trainers, and don’t be afraid to lean on friends and family.
Ask a friend to proofread your assignments or brainstorm ideas with you, and having someone to bounce off can boost your confidence and performance.
MASTER TIME MANAGEMENT
Preparation is key! Use a calendar or planner to map out your study schedule and align it with your personal and work commitments.
Stay ahead by listing key deadlines and setting mini goals along the way. This structure will help you stay focused and avoid last-minute stress.
EMBRACE NEW TECHNOLOGY
Technology can be a huge help in keeping your studies organised – and you don’t need to be tech-savvy to benefit.
Here are a few easy-to-use tools that many students love:
- Google Calendar – to schedule study time and keep track of deadlines
- Google Docs or Microsoft Word – for writing and collaborating on assignments
- Notes apps (like Apple Notes or Evernote) – for jotting down ideas or key points
- To-do lists (like Todoist or even a simple paper checklist!) – to stay on top of tasks
Tip: Your Canvas student portal also includes tools for tracking assessments, communicating with trainers, and accessing resources. Get familiar with it early on to make study smoother!
KNOW YOUR WORTH
As a mature-aged student, you bring valuable life experience, resilience, and transferable skills to your learning journey.
Don’t compare yourself to younger students – your unique perspective and real-world experience are assets that set you apart.
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?
At Kirana Colleges, we support learners of all ages to reach their goals. Whether you’re looking to start a career in aged care, community services, or another rewarding field, our flexible online courses and dedicated trainers are here to help you succeed.
Explore our courses and find your perfect fit today: View Courses
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What support does Kirana Colleges offer students while they study?
Kirana Colleges offers a range of support services to help students feel confident throughout their learning journey. Through AccessEAP, students can access a 24/7 counselling hotline and up to three complimentary counselling sessions. You’ll also have support from the student support team for help with course navigation, study advice, and general questions.Q: How many hours a week should I expect to study online?
If you’re studying full-time, a good guide is around 15-20 hours per week for coursework and assessments. Setting aside regular study time each week can help you stay on track and make steady progress towards your qualification.Q: I’m a mature-aged student. Can I study with Kirana Colleges?
Absolutely. Kirana Colleges supports mature-aged students with flexible online study options that make it easier to balance learning with work, family, and other commitments. You can study at times that suit your schedule and progress at a pace that works for you.Q: Do I need basic computer skills to study online?
Yes. You’ll need basic computer skills to study online, such as using email, browsing the internet, and navigating an online learning platform. If you need help getting started, the Kirana Colleges team can support you with setup and general guidance.Speak to one of our Course and Careers Advisors
if you have any further questions!
Schedule a Time
Pick a time: lunchtime, after the kids are in bed, anytime. We’ll call you back.
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