All U3As are entirely autonomous although their constitutions would declare very similar Aims and Objectives. Some are registered charities.

U3A is an international organisation which began in France in 1972 and in England in 1982. It may be described as a co-operative of older people which enables them, upon retirement from full-time work, to share in a wide range of cultural and social activities and to share expertise and experiences for the purposes of mutual learning and development. Peter Laslett a founder member formulated the Aims & Principles of U3A in 1981. You may care to read this summary.

No qualifications are needed, none given.  What it does require is interest and enthusiasm.  This is an opportunity  to learn by sharing  knowledge, experience in small groups and so promote an active, creative, progressive and fulfilling "Third Age".