Returning to study as a mature learner can feel daunting, but if it’s the right decision for you, it can be one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. Many adults transition into study to advance their career, pivot into a new industry or pursue life-long dreams. Whether you’re taking time away from the workforce or you’ve been raising a family, let this guide help you navigate your next steps.
Benefits to returning to study
You would be joining a community of learners investing in their future through education. Adults bring a wealth of life experience and a clear sense of purpose to the classroom. Experience in managing and refining routines, setting goals and building resilience can give you a unique advantage - helping you stay focused, organised and driven.
Recent data from the Learners Summary report shows that over 400,000 people enrolled in tertiary education in 2024 in New Zealand, and more than 210,000 of those learners were aged 25 years or older. You could be one of them, taking the next step toward your goals.
Overcoming common challenges
Balancing study with work, family, and finances are common pressures for learners returning to study. And so are worries about fitting in and keeping up with technology. These challenges are real, but they can be overcome with the right support.
Flexible learning gives you the option to study full-time, part-time, or online to fit around your life. If committing to full-time study feels overwhelming, short courses are available ranging from half-day workshops to 12-week programmes.
Tertiary providers offer a range of support services, including academic, disability, pastoral, and financial support. They do a great job of understanding your situation and your way of studying. Connecting with these services and understanding what they offer is valuable information before starting.
Students are at the heart of student life. From orientation to graduation, you’ll find a welcoming community of learners who come from various backgrounds, to help you feel confident and connected on campus.
Tips for studying later in life
The most important consideration is understanding if studying is right for you. Differing perspectives from family and friends can be invaluable during this process. Talk with your support systems, let them know the study options you’re considering, and ensure they have your best interests at hand.
Career resources like our study search tool and Tahātu Career Navigator can help you map out what your study path and future career could look like.
You can also use our time calculator to understand how study might fit around your existing commitments. These tools are a great starting point and can help you feel more confident about your next steps.
Opening doors to new opportunities
There are a multitude of learners who are living examples of how further learning or a career change has benefitted their journey.
After working at Air New Zealand during the height of COVID-19, Gareth Woods was made redundant. He made the decision to study Health and Wellbeing. After graduating, he built a career working as a mental health support worker serving communities.
“I decided it was time to start a new journey to a more rewarding and fulfilling career, and I’ve never looked back since.” Hear more from Gareth →
After switching out his extensive trades background for the IT industry, Information Technology graduate Josh Clements is living his dream career as a digital adoption specialist.
“A lot of people around my age don’t think they can change careers, but it can be done.” Read Josh’s full story →
Like Gareth and Josh, the decision to study can open doors to more opportunities and growth in your journey.
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