Mature students are historically under-represented across the sector, especially at competitive Russell Group universities. They are more likely than their 18-year-old counterparts to have additional concerns linked to caring responsibilities, past educational disruption or leaving education early, and additional needs linked to mental health, neurodivergence or learning disability.

The Office for Students identifies increasing the number of mature students in higher education as a key objective, and it forms a key tenet of the University of Exeter’s Access and Participation Plan (APP).

MAP is a free, longitudinal programme designed to build knowledge and understanding of university processes, from admissions to choosing optional modules, and build transferable life, study and social skills to help participants become confident, successful undergraduates. Students who complete the programme are given special contextual offers (equivalent to the maximum reduced offer available for their qualification for the course to which they apply).

Beyond this, MAP participants also gain access to a range of bespoke support, including the University of Exeter’s enhanced induction programme, support from current student mentors, bookable 1:1 sessions with a specialist admissions staff member, and the Mature Students’ Bursary. The bespoke contextual offer and tailored, specific activity sessions – which are designed in response to specific, identified questions and concerns for mature students, as well as providing universal information, advice, and guidance – are distinct in the sector, as there exist very few longitudinal access programmes just for mature applicants.

MAP was first launched in partnership with Exeter College in 2022, joined by Truro and Penwith College and the 10-week self-directed Mature Access Pathway Online, in 2023. A third college partner, Yeovil College, will be joining the programme as part of the 2024-25 cohort.