Mature Student 101
Admission requirements, resources and getting involved at York University as a mature student.
York University is home to more than 6,000 mature students. You can be one of them!
You may have many questions about the application process, transition to university life, creating a work-life balance, and more. York University understands these concerns and is here to assist mature students successfully navigate their university life.
What is a mature student?
Many applicants mistakenly believe that the "mature student" category is a substitute for a poor academic record. This is not true. To be considered a mature student you must:
- Be at least 20 years old by the end of the calendar year of admission to the University;
- Have been out of full-time high school studies for at least two years or have returned to upgrade after a two-year absence;
- Have attempted less than one full year of studies at an accredited university or college;
- Have a favourable academic record; and
- Have demonstrated potential for success through academic, professional, or volunteer activities and other accomplishments.
Note: If you have attended previous post-secondary studies at another college or university, you will be considered a transfer student.
Senior citizens who wish to be admitted to the University (as candidates in a degree program or as visiting students) are evaluated as mature students unless they have completed previous post-secondary studies.
Applying to York University as a mature student
You can find general information, like program options and admissions requirements, on our Mature Students webpage. When you're ready, you can apply here.
The Mature Student Guide is a super helpful resource that will help you through your entire application and onboarding process.
The Atkinson Centre for Mature and Part-time Students
The Atkinson Centre for Mature and Part-time Students (ACMAPS) offers a wide range of student supports, including annual Orientation events, the Mature Student First-Year Experience Program, peer-to-peer mentoring, and various student success workshops. ACMAPS places a high value on mentorship as a means of supporting student transition and student success. To that end, Mature Student Mentors are available to all mature and part-time students to offer guidance and advice throughout the year.
The Mature Student Blog also provides unique perspective from other Mature Students, university-related information, and tons of tips on how to be successful at university.
Resources and support for mature students
Apart from ACMAPS, mature students also have access to the following support services at York:
York University Mature Student Organization
York University Mature Student Organization (YUMSO) is an all-volunteer student club founded in 2004 for mature students at York with around 400 members, including student-parents. YUMSO's goal is to help and serve York's community of mature students. YUMSO provides an opportunity for those who have life experience beyond the lecture hall to mingle with students in similar situations. Working closely with ACMAPS, it aims to connect members with mentors who can support and guide them through the challenges, concerns, and obstacles that they may face as mature university students.
Have questions about applying to York as a mature student? Connect with us on Facebook or Twitter. We look forward to seeing you next year!
Check out the Atkinson Centre for Mature and Part-time Students
