When will universities reopen again?

UK COVID-19 Lockdown: Return to University & Financial Support for Students

Current policy on higher education

As the UK government announced on 4 January 2021, we have entered a third national lockdown, with continuing closure of schools, colleges, and universities. The Prime Minister confirmed that there will be no face-to-face learning for the majority of students and pupils until 8 March at the earliest. Since the mass movement of students from the UK and overseas could pose a significant risk for virus transmission, HE providers are asked to restrict students from returning to face-to-face education and to reduce the number of people accessing university facilities.

Who can return to university?

According to the government, the priority is to get students back into face-to-face teaching. Only students on the following courses are permitted to return to campus:

1. Medicine and dentistry

2. Subjects allied to medicine/health

3. Veterinary science

4. Education (initial teacher training)

5. Exceptions: a very limited number of courses requiring Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body (PSRB) assessments or mandatory activity scheduled for January that cannot be rescheduled (although in most cases these will be moved outside the national restrictions period).

However, not all courses within these subject areas will return to in-person teaching. The majority of courses remain online, so students should check directly with their university for up-to-date information.

Financial funds for students

The UK government has announced an additional £50m of financial support for students impacted by Coronavirus. With financial hardship affecting many throughout the pandemic, this funding is intended to support students facing difficulties such as paying additional costs for alternative accommodation, online learning resources, or loss of employment.

The government is also encouraging more universities and accommodation providers to offer refunds and rebates for students who cannot stay at their term-time address. If you are experiencing financial difficulties due to Covid-19, contact your university or higher education provider for assistance.

Who are we?

Hallbookers is the first review site dedicated to student accommodation. Like a TripAdvisor for Students, we collect reviews from students who have already lived in accommodations across the UK. Using these reviews, we help students find the perfect place to live. Our goal is to support every student in finding their ideal accommodation.

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