Full-time study & working part-time

[HMC]

I have applied for a place at University this year as a mature student. However, I cannot afford not to work (single with mortgage) and am considering a job-share, 2 days one week, 3 days the next. Obviously this means missing some lectures but I'm not sure how I can survive otherwise.
As I would be applying for my fees to be paid by the government, would the fact that I intend working affect my application?
Thanks for any advice.

 

[Thirsty]

I would strongly suggest you reduce your hours further.

I worked 2 1/2 days a week (mainly to keep my job open & also to pay childcare) whilst attending college 5 days a week (yes you are right that's 7 1/2 days!) which meant that I missed some college stuff and also had no free time at all.

It was very tough (particularly when it came to doing my thesis and my employers were none too keen on my taking holidays to complete it) and to be honest if I had my time over, I'm not sure I'd do it again; even if I had to eat porridge 3 times a day - I'd work as few hours as possible.

 

[Money Bags7]

As far as I know you are entitled to free fees once, so as long as you haven't previously gone to college you should be fine. Free fees are not means tested. Are you applying through CAO aswel as mature student application? You should also be entitled to a grant from your local authority - this is means tested and you should start that process asap. It is not much but every little helps.
I did go to college as a mature student but commuted and lived at home with parents for the first two years anyway - bit of a nightmare but help keep costs down. Asked for reduced working hours but employer didn't want to know. Tried part time work in the early days but was too much along with commute. Worked full time all my holidays, which helped clear debts. Talk to your mortgage provider about flexible options/remortgage especially if you know you are guaranteed a bigger salary when you complete your degree. Try not to miss lectures in first year. Can I ask wat you intend to study?