Mature students events and support
If you're over 21 and thinking about applying to Sussex or are interested in university, join us for events specifically for mature students.
On this page:
In-person events
Take a look at our in-person events available to attend on campus.
Preparing for Sussex: the Widening Participation team
Date: Wednesday 23 June 2027
Location: University of Sussex
The Widening Participation team will be a running an event for contextual and mature offer holders. The day is designed to equip you with the necessary skills to thrive at university.
The team are still finalising plans for the day but the event will focus on the following areas and you can select the elements you are most interested in, such as:
- academic and critical skills, getting you ready for university-level study
- preparing for student jobs, include accessing the careers lab and building a CV
- signposting to practical financial skills and support at university
- mature student breakout group
- an introduction to Sussex support teams
- getting to know the library and preparing for research
- meeting current students who have experience of transition to Sussex.
The booking form will open in December 2026.
Get Started at Sussex: mature students
Date: September 2027
Location: University of Sussex
A separate one-day transition event for new undergraduate and foundation year students starting at Sussex aged 21+ (mature students).
This is aimed at increasing students’ confidence to return to education after a break or later in life, with tailored interactive workshops. You’ll meet other mature students and staff and learn more about study skills and what’s on offer on campus.
Further information will be provided in Spring 2027.
Visit our campus
For mature offer holders we can offer bespoke, individual campus experiences. All experiences will include a tailored campus tour with a current student.
We can also provide personal statement support, information, advise and guidance on applying, funding and offer holder support, with a member of our access team.
Depending on availability, we may be able to visit the department you hope to study and match you with a student who studies in that area.
To enquire about a visit email inspires@sussex.ac.uk.
Attend an Open Day
Our Open Days give you a taste of life at Sussex. Learn more about our courses, chat to current students, attend talks led by mature students and tour campus with our ambassadors.
Campus tours
If you’d like to visit campus but cannot attend either of these events, take a look at our campus tour dates or email inspires@sussex.ac.uk.
Online events
Discover the virtual events you can join.
Book an information session
Get an insight into the rewards and challenges of returning to education as a mature student through our informal online information sessions. You can sign up to join as many events as you want.
Each session will be delivered by University staff and a mature student ambassador.
Twilight webinars
Life as a mature student (including personal statement guidance)
Date: 6pm-7pm, Thursday 29 October 2026
Location: Online
Learn more about the support we offer to mature students. We'll provide you with:
- finances and welfare
- guidance on your personal statement
- information on DSA (disabled students allowance)
You'll also hear from one of our current mature students, delivering a talk on student life with a Q&A session.
Student finance
Date: 6pm-7pm, Wednesday 17 February 2027
Location: Online
Learn more about student finance including:
- when to apply and how to apply
- Bursaries
- information on DSA (disabled students allowance)
One-to-one UCAS personal statement support
Book a one-to-one appointment with a member of our Widening Participation team to get support and advice on your personal statement.
We’re offering 20 minute one-to-one ssessions for mature students looking to apply to Sussex. During your appointment, you can ask questions and get guidance on the structure and content of your personal statement.
You’ll need to bring a draft written copy of your personal statement to this session.
Book a personal statement appointment
How to apply for courses
Find out how to apply for undergraduate courses as a mature student, including what types of qualifications we accept along with experience.
Register for event updates
Contact us
If you'd like more information on applying to Sussex as a mature student, email inspires@sussex.ac.uk.