It's never too late!

Not everyone comes to UVic directly from secondary school. Whether it's been 12 months or twelve years since you were last in a classroom, we can help you meet your educational goals. There is a broad range of options open to the mature student. You can choose credit or non-credit study. If you can't commit to full-time study in a degree program you can explore diploma, certificate, professional specialization certificates, professional development and career-related accreditations, as well as workshops, seminars, individual courses and lectures. There are many courses available through distance online learning.

If you have already made a choice to apply to a full-time degree program but you're over 23 years of age, follow the standard application process - you will automatically be considered for special access.

To explore the many options for part-time study at UVic please visit the Division of Continuing Studies.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the definition of a mature student?
• What is the admission process for a mature student?
• Am I ready for university level study?
• Do you recognize work experience?
• Do you have childcare facilities?
• Would it cost too much?
• I have a disability, will I be able to cope?
• Am I too old?
• I'm not very good at computer work, how will I cope?

What is the definition of a mature student?
A mature student is anyone over the age of 23 (and therefore not eligible for standard admission). A mature student is often someone who wants access to further education after a significant gap in order to achieve an academic goal or gain additional qualifications to help their career. Age is no barrier to participation in UVic's programs - many retired people find that returning to some form of academic study satisfies a need for intellectual and social stimulation.

What is the admission process for a mature student?
A good place for any mature student to start is with the Division of Continuing Studies. Its role is to provide the community with access to the intellectual wealth of UVic through its varied and flexible part-time programs. You may find it helpful to sample a single course, workshop or seminar - there are many interesting choices with no prerequisites - simply register and pay the fee. If your desire to pursue education is related to your work but you're unsure what direction to follow, you may wish to try one of the life/career planning workshops. You can also register for these through Continuing Studies. Once you have determined where your main focus should be, the division's knowledgeable program staff will be there to help you navigate the system.

Am I ready for university level study?
It's important to take the time to establish some goals. This will help you to take on course work at a manageable and enjoyable pace. Those of us who have been away from education for quite a while may not give ourselves enough credit for what we already know and our ability to take on new challenges. If you are studying something that truly interests you, the learning process will be a rewarding experience. UVic is a very supportive learning environment and you will also find that your fellow students are an important part of that support system. The Humanities Diploma program is a good introduction to university study for people new to higher education.

Do you recognize work experience?
Certainly, but the amount and type of recognition may vary from program to program. When investigating any of the programs that interest you, ask about 'Prior Learning Assessment or Advanced Standing.' Continuing Studies, for instance, has certificate programs that recognize a student's combination of work experience and education in the application process.

Do you have childcare facilities?
UVic's Childcare Services operates the Harry Lou-Poy Centre, which accommodates the children (infants to three-year-olds) of students, faculty and staff. Parents who are students are required to be enrolled as a full-time UVic student to be eligible for childcare. There is a waiting list for spaces.

Would it cost too much?
Mature students are often not able to commit to long periods of full-time study. The flexible part-time study options available through Continuing Studies are designed with this kind of learner in mind. It's possible to pay as you go, one course at a time and to structure your time in the program and your tuition expenses to suit your needs. And don't forget - many courses and programs offered by Continuing Studies at the University of Victoria qualify for non-refundable tax credits. Additional help is also available through various bursaries and scholarships.

I have a disability; will I be able to cope?
A range of services is available to all new students at UVic through the Resource Centre for Students with a Disability, including Adaptive Technology, arranging accommodations and alternate exams, note-taking assistance and special parking permits. All major buildings are equipped with wheelchair ramps, elevators and washrooms designed to accommodate wheelchair users. Keys to operate all electric lifts on campus are available from the Resource Centre. Most classroom and office doors are marked in Braille to assist students with vision loss. Tactile maps of the campus and of most buildings are also available.

Am I too old?
Never. At Convocation ceremonies we have seen people in their eighties proudly accept their certificates, diplomas or degrees. People of all ages and from all walks of life can access many forms of educational opportunities through the University of Victoria.

I'm not very good at computer work, how will I cope?
Many students use traditional note taking methods (a pen and paper) when attending lectures and classes. If your chosen program of study includes specific use of technology you will be able to assess your appropriate entry level when you apply. If you need to use computers to do research, you will find the help you need (and the equipment) at the UVic library. It's not necessary to carry a laptop around with you! A great course for people starting to use computers for the first time is 'Management Computing,' also available through Continuing Studies.