Going back to school after some time away can be tricky, but Sheridan works hard to make expanding your education easy and accessible. Here's how.
What is a "mature student"?
You can apply to Sheridan's certificate, diploma, and advanced diploma programs as a "mature student" if you:
- Are at least 19 years old, and
- Do not have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent)
You don't need to self-identify as "mature" to be a mature student!
Why go back to school as a mature student?
There are as many reasons to go back to school as there are programs of study at Sheridan — probably more. Here are a few of the most common reasons mature students return to study:
- Career change: Looking to shake up your career? A certificate or diploma might be just what you need to change your career path.
- Keeping up with technology: Even if you love your current job, you might find the pace of technological change moving faster and faster! Higher education might help you keep up.
- Setting an example: If you have kids yourself, you may want to set an example for them by pursuing new challenges.
- Personal fulfillment: Sometimes you just want to pursue a challenge or opportunity just for the thrill and satisfaction of overcoming it! Education for education's sake is a noble goal.
Applying to study as a mature student at Sheridan
Mature students can apply to Sheridan through OntarioColleges.ca. Sheridan staff will review your application, and let you know about any tests you might need to complete (see below).
Admission requirements for mature students
Mature students must meet the same admission requirements as any other student, so be sure to explore your program options carefully to find out what's required.
At Sheridan, mature students are welcome to apply for the following program types:
If you're interested in a bachelor's degree program instead, you'll first need to complete at least two semesters of post-secondary, in a certificate or diploma, before applying to your degree of choice.
Admission tests and academic upgrading
If you lack some of the high school required credits to apply for a certificate or diploma, you may need to complete a test of your skills in English, math, and/or science: the Mature Student Assessment.
Sheridan staff will let you know about any required tests after you apply to your program of interest. The fee for the Mature Student Assessment is $35 CAD, and can typically be done in-person at any Sheridan campus, or online.
Happily, Sheridan provides a PDF document with info on the Assessment, as well as sample questions and helpful resources.
Sheridan also offers academic upgrading: no grade 12? No problem! Academic Upgrading is a tuition-free program that provides you with the admission requirements needed for undergraduate certificate, diploma, or advanced diploma college programs or workplace skills needed for employment.
Have questions? Sheridan's here for you
Sheridan staff are happy to help you with any questions or concerns you might have as a prospective mature student. Give Sheridan a call at either of these numbers, and select Option 4 after the prompt:
- 905-845-9430 (Oakville/Mississauga)
- 905-459-7533 (Brampton)
Not a phone person? We get it! Sheridan hosts weekly career advising workshops that leverage the (super cool) Idea Generator to help you plan your next move. Reach out — Sheridan staff are here to help!
The first step for any student, mature or otherwise, is to research your program options. If you get stuck, reach us by phone at the numbers above, or by email. We look forward to meeting you.
Explore programs at Sheridan