Information for students

How is the University coordinating its response to the local Leicester lockdown?

Please be assured that we are well prepared. We have the governance and operational teams in place to enable us to act swiftly to protect the health, safety and wellbeing of our community:

• We continually review and monitor advice from Public Health England as well as seeking advice from our own Public Health experts here at the University.
• We have established work streams whose focus is to create a COVID-19 compliant, safe campus, delivering the very best experience for our students.

I have booked a slot to come collect my belongings from accommodation. What should I do?

If you have booked a slot this will no longer be taking place due to the current lockdown restrictions. Please do not travel to campus.

I have booked a slot to collect my post. Will this still be able to go ahead?

No. If you have booked a slot this will no longer be taking place due to the current lockdown restrictions. Please do not travel to campus.

When will the Library reopen?

Although we had been hoping to commence the re-opening of our library from next week with click-and-collect and book return services, this will now be paused as a consequence of the local lockdown in Leicester.

What will happen to research activity during the Leicester Lockdown?

We will be limiting research on campus to essential research that includes COVID-19 and research essential to maintaining our financial and reputational sustainability.

I am a Yr3/Yr4 Medical Student, will my placement be able to go ahead?

We are planning to continue the return of our Year 3 and Year 4 medical students to placements. These students are defined as ‘critical workers’ by HEE, so will be allowed to travel both within and outside of Leicester.

I live in University-managed accommodation, will I still be able to access assistance if I need it?

Our students continue to be supported in University-managed accommodation and if assistance is required they can contact the accommodation team directly or contact welfare@le.ac.uk.

I am currently living in Leicester and think I have symptoms of Corona Virus. What should I do?

For students who live in Leicester there are four test centres and appointments can be booked nationally via nhs.uk/ask-for-a-coronavirus-test or by calling 119. We encourage anyone who has symptoms or if you’ve been in close contact with someone who has had symptoms, to get tested as soon as possible.

If you live in Leicester we encourage you to report any COVID-19 symptoms or self-isolation to us so we can identify the best way to support you - complete the form online.

I have been subject to harassment. What support is available from the University?

The University takes a zero tolerance approach to racial harassment, discrimination and hate incidents, and will not tolerate this behaviour. When such incidents occur, we will take strong, direct and immediate action to address them.

Anyone who experiences or witnesses racial harassment, discrimination or any other form of unacceptable behaviour, on or off campus, is urged to contact the University about this. Please contact report and support.

What is the Safety Net policy?

The Safety Net policy is designed to ensure that you receive at least the degree classification that you were on track to achieve before the COVID-19 situation developed. It uses marks already achieved to calculate a 'benchmark' credit weighted average (CWA) year mark for the 2019/20 academic year.  If the final CWA for this year, determined once all assessments are complete, falls below the benchmark then we will use the benchmark CWA to calculate your degree classification.  For finalists, this will be done at the end of this academic year. For non-finalists, this will take place at the end of your degree.  

The design of the Safety Net means that if your results improve then you will receive the full benefit of the improvement, but if your remaining assessments do not go as well as you hoped because of disruption to your studies then you will not be disadvantaged.

Does the Safety Net policy apply to all programmes?

Whilst the policy will apply to most programmes, there will be some exceptions where external professional accreditations requirements apply. Examples of this include the Leicester Medical School and the School of Allied Health Professions.

How do I access the Safety Net policy?

To access the Safety Net policy in July 2020, you are required to take all your semester two assessments and achieve at minimum a pass for credit mark in each of these modules. Once this requirement is met, the Safety Net policy will be applied automatically. 

What is the purpose of the Benchmark?

The benchmark CWA generates a credit weighted average (CWA) for this academic year based on your achievements in all modules in semester one and, if necessary, from previous years of your degree.  Some programmes may also include additional year-long or semester two modules from this year where they were complete before the COVID-19 pandemic. The benchmark will only be used to set a minimum threshold for your CWA for this year.  Once all your remaining assessments for this year are complete, we will also calculate a CWA based on your results in the usual way. For the purposes of degree classification, we will use whichever CWA is higher.This is illustrated below:

Scenario 1: Calculated benchmark CWA = 67.86%
CWA for this year after all assessments complete = 72.12%
A CWA of 72.12% will be used in determining the classification of your degree.

Scenario 2: Calculated benchmark CWA = 68.56%
CWA for this year after all assessments complete = 64.12%
A CWA of 68.56% will be used in determining the classification of your degree.

The benchmark CWA will not be used to change any marks for assessments or modules and will only be used in the calculation of your final degree classification.  

Your benchmarked CWA will only be confirmed at the time of the summer exam boards and will not be provided before then. The examples given in Appendix 1 (Worked examples of of benchmark calculations PDF 613kb) show in principle how the benchmark will be calculated.

How will the Benchmark be calculated?

General Benchmark Calculation Principles for Undergraduate programmes

Assessment arrangements for Postgraduate Taught (PGT) Programmes

In response to the disruption caused by Covid-19, the University has made a number of changes to the assessment arrangements for our postgraduate taught students. These include amendments to the progression, award and classification regulations and the introduction of a Safety Net Policy. This document provides a summary of these changes with some Frequently Asked Questions.

Designing a Safety Net for our postgraduate programmes is complex because our students are studying full-time and part-time, both on campus and by distance/flexible learning, so disruption has happened at different stages of their studies and sometimes at different times because of where they are located. We have therefore designed the Safety Net to be as flexible as possible whilst maintaining the academic integrity of your award. It will apply to all students who still had outstanding assessments when COVID-19 disrupted their studies.

Safety Net Policy for PGT Programmes

What is the PGT Safety Net Policy?

The PGT Safety Net applies to postgraduate taught programmes affected by Covid-19. This includes full-time and part-time programmes studied on campus or by distance or flexible learning. Its aim is to ensure that, as far as possible, students do not suffer disadvantage due to the Covid-19 pandemic and achieve at least the award they were on track for before the disruption. It uses marks already achieved from taught modules to calculate a 'benchmark' credit weighted average (CWA) year mark for the 2019/20 academic year.

The design of the Safety Net means that if your results improve then you will receive the full benefit of the improvement, but if assessments for your taught modules during the period affected by Covid-19 do not go as well as you hoped, because of disruption to your studies, you will not be disadvantaged.

Does it apply to all programmes?

The policy applies to all students whose studies were still ongoing at the time of the pandemic but not to any programmes where all assessments for modules submitted already prior to the outbreak. Whilst the policy will apply to most programmes, there may be some exceptions where external professional accreditations requirements apply. Where this is the case, your School will advise you.

How do I access the Safety Net?

To access the Safety Net, students are required to have taken all of their remaining taught module assessments and achieve a pass mark in each module from this period (please see Senate Regulation 6, paras 6.31-6.39 for information on the thresholds relating to the number of failed credits at 40-49% permitted for award).

Will the Safety Net apply if I have failed modules?

If you have failed modules during the period affected by Covid-19, you can still access the safety net if you pass the modules following reassessment. We have also amended the progression requirements for this year to allow student to progress and retake up to 90 credits as shown in the table about progression regulations at the end of this document.

What is the benchmark?

We will calculate a benchmark credit weighted average (CWA) for all eligible students and provide this for all Boards of Examiners. We do not provide benchmark calculations to individual students. For the taught modules, the safety net applies at the level of the CWA for module assessment before Covid-19 and in the case of some part-time and distance/flexible learning students, post-Covid-19. The benchmark calculation for individual students will vary. It is dependent on the stage, mode and type of studies (i.e. whether you are studying full-time or part-time, on campus or distance/flexible learning programmes).

The Benchmark CWA is the level below which students’ CWA for the taught component cannot fall for the purposes of the postgraduate degree classification calculation only (including any interim award).

The benchmark for campus-based programmes

For campus-based programmes, we will calculate a Benchmark CWA for all students based on marks achieved in the first semester of this year wherever possible, including marks from the first year of study for part-time students in their second year. Where there are insufficient completed modules to do this, in-module elements from modules spanning semesters one and two may also be included.

The benchmark for distance-learning programmes

For distance/flexible learning programmes a Benchmark CWA will be calculated based on the modules undertaken prior to the University’s response to COVID-19 (and post-COVID-19 where relevant).

How will the benchmark be calculated?

Once assessments affected by Covid-19 have been marked the credit-weighted average (CWA) for the taught component will be calculated, referred to as the Initial CWA.

• If the Initial CWA is lower than the Benchmark CWA then the Benchmark CWA will be used in the postgraduate degree classification calculation.
• If the Initial CWA is higher than the Benchmark CWA, then the Initial CWA will be used in the postgraduate degree classification.

The application of the Safety Net at CWA level means that students’ individual module marks will not change only the degree classification will be affected. Marks that fall below the Benchmark CWA will not be adjusted, but the actual mark obtained will appear on students’ transcripts.

Can I ask for a separate benchmark calculated for me?

The benchmark calculation must apply to the whole cohort on each specific programme, so this is not possible. The relevant Board of Examiners will have details of benchmark calculations for all students at the appropriate time to inform their award and classification decisions. We will not be providing individual benchmarks to students.

Projects and Dissertations

Is my project or dissertation in the Safety Net Calculation?

The benchmark CWA only applies to the taught modules. However, for students whose project or dissertation has been disrupted by Covid-19 the threshold mark required from the dissertation/project for merit and distinction classifications has been reduced by 3% as demonstrated in the table below for a programme with 120 taught credits and a 60 credit dissertation.

Mitigating circumstances

Can I apply for mitigating circumstances if my studies are impacted significantly by Covid-19?

You may submit a claim for mitigating circumstances in the normal way but we have suspended the need to provide evidence to support claims in the current situation. If you find that you are not in a position to study you can consider applying for a suspension of studies, you may find this of particular help if you are a distance-learning student. If you think suspension may be the best option for you, you should discuss options with your School, or where appropriate, the Distance Learning Hub. Colleagues will be able to provide further advice and guidance about when a suspension may be the best course of actions and the implications associated with it.

Amended progression regulations

What can I do to protect myself from contracting coronavirus?

Read the World Health Organisation (WHO) advice on protecting yourself.

Read more about signs and symptoms from the WHO, from Public Health England and the NHS.

University of Leicester Professor Mike Barer, Professor of Clinical Microbiology – who is leading pioneering work on virus detection – has shared his top tips to stay healthy:

1. Wash your hands. If you touch a contaminated surface your hand picks up the virus. Even then you can eliminate the risk of infection if you wash your hands properly. Do this frequently, particularly before eating or after hands may have been contaminated; the Government advice to repeat ‘happy birthday’ twice is a good way to wash for long enough;
2. Alcohol based hand-rubs can substitute when hand washing is not available. Infected people may cough, sneeze or breathe out the virus that can contaminate exposed surfaces and be moved around on our hands;
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. These areas are most vulnerable to infection. As far as we know, infections are only transmitted when the virus contacts the mouth nose or eyes, or is breathed in;
4. When phones are exposed, they can be contaminated. Wiping down any phone you use with an alcohol-based wipe will help eliminate contamination;
5. What about handshakes and masks? As cases of coronavirus grow, avoiding handshakes will reduce your risk – stick to fist or elbow bumps instead. Masks can stop you touching your nose and mouth but have little effect on breathing in virus unless specially designed.

What should I do if I think I may have contracted coronavirus?

 Stay at home for 7 days if you have either:

• a high temperature – you feel hot to touch on your chest or back
• a new, continuous cough – this means you've started coughing repeatedly.

If you have a pre-existing health condition, please contact your GP by phone for advice. If you wish to notify us of concerns or self-isolation (retrospectively or current) please complete this form.

If I choose to self-isolate, but haven’t been advised to do so, is that OK?

We advise that you should only self-isolate if required to in line with current Public Health England (PHE) advice or as directed by medical professionals. 

If you choose to self-isolate when you're not advised to, please email welfare@leicester.ac.uk to let them know.

If you do not meet the criteria for self-isolation, your absence will be marked as unauthorised.

I have a pre-existing health condition that I need medication for, and I am self-isolating.

Please contact your GP for advice, but they are likely to suggest:

• repeat prescriptions can be ordered online if they are already set up. Speak directly with your GP practice for advice;
• acute medications not on repeat prescriptions would need to be discussed with a medical professional so please call to speak with your GP;
• your local GP should be able to advise on how to pick your medication up at your pharmacy, following government guidance and pharmacy guidance. 

What should I do if I need urgent help while on campus? 

As campus is now closed, students should not be on main campus. For students still in University managed accommodation, we encourage you to download SafeZone, the safety app which allows you to alert University Security via your mobile phone if you need urgent assistance, first aid, or if you have an emergency while on campus.

The system is privacy-protected, so will never share your location unless you summon assistance or if you use the check-in function. SafeZone uses high-speed push messaging to allow Security to send you important notifications in the case of an emergency or critical incidents on campus. The check-in function also allows you to let Security know where you are (it does not track your location - you only become visible on the system once you have raised an alert or checked in).

I am worried about the situation, can I talk to someone?

If you are concerned about how coronavirus affects or might affect you, please contact our Student Support Team via welfare@leicester.ac.uk or 0116 223 1185.

What support can students access from the Careers Service?

The Careers Development Service remains operational, but with all services operating remotely as follows.

1-2-1 Appointments
Students can continue to book these online on MyCareers or by emailing the Student Service Centre (studentservices@le.ac.uk). All appointments will now be conducted over Skype or by telephone and we are able to offer our full range of appointment support through these mediums (support with application processes, career coaching and mock interviews/assessments). More information can be found on the Career Development Service website.

Workshops
All of our regular employability workshops are available virtually for students to access whenever they need to. Panopto recordings for all workshops can be downloaded on our website, where they can also find full details about our workshop provision, which covers all stages of an application and recruitment process. Any one-off specialist workshops, e.g. those run by an employer, will continue to be advertised on MyCareers. Searching for placements, internships or graduate jobs: MyCareers is the University’s online job shop where students and graduates can search for job opportunities, whether that be placements, internships or graduate roles. Our team in the Career Development Service are continuing to add job opportunities with employers that are continuing to recruit students and graduates

Submit a query!
Students can ask a quick question by submitting a query on MyCareers. We aim to respond to every query within 1 working day.

Are Support Services still operating?

Yes, your Student Support Services continue to deliver all services remotely, available Monday-Friday 9.00am-5.00pm. For general enquiries please contact us via welfare@le.ac.uk or 0116 223 1185

How can I contact Student Support Services?

The team will be able to access all inboxes: concerned@leicester.ac.uk, accessable@leicester.ac.uk and wellbeing@leicester.ac.uk.

However, our primary point of contact will be the welfare@leicester.ac.uk. All inboxes will be monitored and replies sent during our normal working hours. 

For any student COVID related queries/reports please visit this site.

How do I study more effectively online?

Guidance is available on how to study more effectively online, including managing your time, finding the sources you need, and learning effectively from recorded lectures.

The Academic Skills Centre website is being updated regularly in response to your needs as online learners. We are also advertising online workshops and drop-in sessions.

What happens if I have an existing appointment?

All appointments for students will be converted to remote methods; Zoom or email. This will enable ‘face to face’ and audio contact with students to be maintained, and business as usual activities to be delivered. Please bear with us though as we convert to this way of working.

Can I still use Report and Support during this period?

Report and Support will still be functioning and monitored by the Standing Together team.

Please contact us with any concerns you have about students for COVID-19-related issues, and concerned@leicester.ac.uk for risk-related concerns.

Are other external student support services operating?

All external services provided to students on campus: the Chaplaincy, Choices, Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) and Headspace have been updated about the changes to service delivery and university campus closure.

The chaplaincy will continue to offer a level of service - this may change - so we advise you to contact them directly . Choices, ISVA and Headspace and have suspended their services on campus, but continue to deliver within the wider community at present.

Where can I ask for help with my finances?

The University operates a range of financial hardship funds, and these have been extended to provide more support to students during this time. Funds are available to UK, EU and International students. If you are in need of emergency financial support during these times, please contact welfare@le.ac.uk.

I need help with my assessments

Refer first to the information provided by your School, your tutors and in your Blackboard course sites.

Also note that the Academic Skills Centre is still offering a full appointment service remotely at this time. We will continue to offer the same kind of support as usual through Blackboard Collaborate, email or phone. This includes topics such as; Maths and Statistics help, Academic writing including reports, essays etc., Dissertations, projects and assignments, Preparing for assessment, Referencing and finding information

What services are the academic skills centre offering to students via a remote service now we are no longer on campus?

The Academic Skills Centre is still offering a full appointment service remotely at this time. We will continue to offer the same kind of support as usual through Blackboard Collaborate or email . This includes topics such as;

• Maths and Statistics help,
• Academic writing including reports, essays etc.
• Dissertations, projects and assignments,
• Study skills and preparing for exams,
• Referencing and finding information.

Academic Skills Centre staff are available to chat about some of the specific challenges you may be facing as a result of not being on campus, including;

• Accessing resources and learning materials at home,
• Using remote learning tools such as Blackboard Collaborate,
• Writing, studying and revising in your home environment,
• Planning your time around disruptions to your usual schedule.

This is a great way to get one to one support and talk to someone about how your studies are going at a time when you may have fewer opportunities for interaction. Appointments can be booked from the Centre homepage.

I am a Student Unitemps worker but the work is no longer available becaue of COVID-19, can I benefit from the Government’s furlough scheme?

The University acknowledges that these are unprecedented times of uncertainty and anxiety for all.  Understandably many temporary workers, are finding themselves in financial difficulty as a result of the Covid-19 situation.  We are sure that you can appreciate that the same level of temporary work normally required at this time by the University is not the same.

If you are in need of emergency financial support during these times, please contact welfare@le.ac.uk

The emergency hardship fund has been made available to support students with essential living costs and will provide initial support over a 4 week period. Additional financial assessments will then take place if further support is required.

Support available from the Students' Union

Whether it’s course-related, queries with accommodation or personal problems - we give you invaluable, confidential and impartial advice.

Independent of the University, we will listen, consider your circumstances and advise you on the best route to take. We will talk you through processes and advise you on how to put together the information you need, as well as reviewing it for you before you submit to the University. More information about our advice service can be found on our website.

What do I need to do if I am self-isolating and live in University managed accommodation?

Please contact the accommodation team on 0116 252 2428 or accommodation@le.ac.uk with your name, student ID number and room details, to let us know if you or your flat are self-isolating.You will also need to let your flatmates now as they may also be required to self-isolate. The Accommodation Team will provide more information on what to do when living in halls. University managed accommodation includes.

• Oadby Student Village
• Nixon Court
• Opal Court

You can also let your Student Support Services know by using this link .If you wish to get in touch with our Student Support Services directly, please email welfare@le.ac.uk.

Can I stay in University-managed accommodation?

University-managed accommodation will remain open. 
Some of you may choose to return home, but we know that some of you will not be able to do so, and others may prefer not to at this time.

If you need to remain in our accommodation, we will support you in doing so. However, we may ask you to move into a different hall so that we can best support your wellbeing, enable social distancing and support staff who will remain on campus to ensure the safe running of our accommodation. If you are asked to move to a different location, we will move you to a room which is at least the equivalent of your current room, if not better, and there will be no additional cost to you.

Will I pay for my third term accommodation?

Students who told us before 5 April that they did not want their third term accommodation will not be charged.

If you were unable to fully check out and clear your room you must notify us by emailing the Accommodation Team on accommodation@le.ac.uk and provide them with the details of your situation, together with your name, student number, your hall of residence and room number

What if I have already paid for my third term accommodation?

If you have already paid for your third term accommodation and you notify us that you will be checking out. We will provide a refund to the original account the fees were paid from. Please bear with us as this may take some time due to the current disruption caused by the Covid-19 situation.

I have already left University of Leicester-managed accommodation and can’t return to collect my belongings – do I still have to pay for the third term?

Any student who left University-managed accommodation before 20 March and is genuinely unable (due to current travel restrictions), to return to collect their belongings  will not be charged for the third term. You must have contacted us by 5 April to confirm that you are unable to return. Let us know by emailing the Accommodation Team and providing us with the details of your situation, together with your name, student number, your hall of residence and room number. Someone will then be in touch to discuss.

If you haven’t collected your belongings yet, you can book a slot to do so by following the instructions in the emails we are sending out.

If you haven’t collected your belongings by the end of your contract, you will need to make arrangements for the items to be collected and stored locally at your expense, or for items to be packed up and shipped to you at your expense. Unfortunately we do not have any capacity to store belongings until the start of the new academic year. Therefore if you are able to return to collect your belongings but choose not to, or do not contact us, you will be liable for the third term fees until the end of the contract.

Do I have to move halls if I want to stay?

If you are not living within University-managed accommodation, you may contact Student Support Services via welfare@le.ac.uk for support and advice.

Top Tips

Read the contract

Be absolutely clear about the terms and conditions. It is essential you read through and fully understand all the terms and conditions stated on the contract. This includes any handbook or additional contract sheets you are given. If there is a dispute then the contract is the first point of reference and would be used as the main source of evidence in any court case.

Once a contract has been signed the terms and conditions cannot be altered unless both parties agree.

Get the details

The contract should include the full contact details of the landlord/agent. If you are renting via an agency make sure you also have the landlord's full contact details. You are legally entitled to this information. If you have just a name and telephone number, it could be very difficult to pursue the landlord/agent should a dispute arise.

Know what you have to pay

The contract should also make clear what rent payments are due and when. In addition to this, it should be clear who is responsible for the bills, e.g. water rates. Before you sign a contract, check that the advertised rent is what is stated on the contract. Errors do occur and if you sign the contract, it may be difficult to argue later, especially if you do not have the original advert.

Don’t sign on behalf of someone else

Never sign a contract on behalf of your housemates. Even if their name is on the contract, if they do not sign the agreement and decide not to move in, you could be held liable for the rent of the whole house.

Deposits and Advance Payments

If you have paid a deposit or an advanced payment, but not signed a contract for your accommodation, then you may still be able to change your mind if you no longer want the accommodation. You should read the terms of the deposit or advanced payment to see if this is refundable as you may lose your deposit or advanced payment if you cancel.

Cancelling may still be the best option for you if you have found a better deal elsewhere, take some independent advice to be certain before taking any action.

Record keeping

Keep all correspondence and ask for things in writing, this helps should you get into a dispute with your Landlord.

Above all if something is not clear or you don’t understand the contract take independent professional advice.

Responsibilities

Your Agent/Landlord is responsible for...

• Keeping in repair the structure and exterior of the dwelling house, including drains, gutters and external pipes.
• Keeping in repair and proper working order the installations for the supply of water, gas and electricity and for sanitation (including basins, sinks, baths and sanitary conveniences and for heating rooms and heating water.
• Providing a rent book if statute so requires e.g., where the rent is paid weekly.
• Providing you with the agents/landlords full name and address.
• Providing you with a copy of the valid current Gas Safety Certificate (see Standards).
• Allowing you to "peacefully enjoy" your accommodation (unless there is an emergency).
• Agents/Landlords have the right to enter the property at reasonable times to carry out the repairs for which they are responsible and to inspect the condition and the state of repair of the property. They must give at least 24 hours notice in writing of an inspection. It would be helpful to set out the arrangements for access and procedures for getting repairs done in the tenancy agreement.
• Providing you with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

You are responsible for...

• Acting in a "Tenant-like manner". This means you should perform the smaller tasks around the house such as, unblocking the sink when clogged with waste and cleaning the windows when necessary.
• Not damaging the house, if you do then you and your guests are responsible for the repairs.
• Refuse collection! Remember to find out the collection day from your local council. Put the wheelie bin out - and bring it back in again, it is illegal to leave it on the street.
• Securing the property when you go away, lock all the doors and windows!
• Being reasonable about noise and parties, e.g. let your neighbours know in advance.
• Reporting all repairs needed to the agent/landlord (preferably in writing). The landlord's/agent's responsibility to repair begins only when they are aware of the problem.

Some common problems and questions with private accommodation

Can I give the landlord/agent notice?

You must first check your contract. If there is a clause allowing you to give notice to quit, then, providing proper notice is given, you could move out. If you have signed a fixed term agreement with no such clause then you remain liable for the rent.

I have paid a deposit for next year, and I no longer need the accommodation can I get the deposit back?

You will need to check the terms of the deposit or advanced payment to see if this is refundable. If you have already signed your contract and there is no clause allowing you to give notice then you may still be liable for the term of the contract. Depending on the terms of the deposit or advance payments, it may be possible for you to give up the accommodation contract, but you may still lose the deposit.

We have signed a joint contract but one of our housemates has moved out. The landlord/agent is asking us for the money but we feel the tenant should pay - is this fair?

Fairness does not really come into it, The landlord's/agent's primary concern is to collect the rent. If a joint contract has been signed, the landlord/agent can decide who they want to chase for the rent. If the rent remains unpaid, it can be taken from the collective deposits or if court action is taken, the landlord/agent is likely to issue a summons that names all the tenants. The best option is to try and find a suitable replacement as soon as possible.

I have moved out of a shared house but my former housemates are refusing to accept my replacement tenant. What can I do?

If the contract is joint and several, the remaining household have the right to refuse a replacement tenant. However, they can only refuse on reasonable grounds such as the replacement tenant not being a student (liability for Council Tax). If they continue to refuse suitable replacements, it is important to notify the landlord/agent. They may decide to take action against the tenants if rent remains outstanding.

If you have an individual contract, you do not need to get the permission of others in the house. However, the landlord/agent does need to agree. It is rare that the landlord/agent refuses a replacement tenant and they would have to give good reasons for doing so.

Should I leave the UK to return to my home country?

We are continuing to follow travel advice issued by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), which currently advises British nationals against all but essential international travel. You should follow the advice of your national government, and if you choose to return to your home country and can make travel arrangements to do so, the University advises that you return home and you continue your studies remotely.

The Attendance Monitoring System (AMS) has been switched off and attendance will not be monitored during this time. If you continue to engage remotely with your studies and submit all work and assessments, we do not anticipate an issue with your visa. The Home Office recognises the current situation is exceptional and they are monitoring it closely. They will provide updated guidance to institutions which the University will follow. Please make sure you update MyStudentRecord with your current home address.

If I remain in the UK and it is then not possible to leave the country, what happens if my visa is due to expire? How long can I stay?

The Home Office has updated its guidance for those in the UK whose leave expires between 24 January and 31 July 2020. Your visa will be extended until 31 July 2020 if you cannot leave the UK because of travel restrictions or self-isolation related to coronavirus.

To request an extension you must complete an online form and provide the Coronavirus Immigration Team (CIT) with your personal details and the reason why you are unable to travel back to your home country, e.g. the border has closed.

If you have already used this process and had your visa extended to 31 May 2020 you visa will be extended automatically to 31 July 2020.

The Home Office will inform you when you request is received and when your visa has been extended. You should keep a personal record of any correspondence you receive in case it is required in future, for an immigration application or by a landlord. You must also forward any communications to visas@le.ac.uk so they can update your university record.

If I leave the UK to return to my home country, what happens about my visa?

If you are planning on going home you must notify the Visa team of your intention to leave the UK by emailing visas@le.ac.uk with a copy of your flight ticket/booking. Please also let your School know of your intentions to travel and make sure you update MyStudentRecord with your current home address.

If you can't return to the UK within 60 days, and provided that you continue to engage remotely with your studies and submit all work and assessments, we do not anticipate an issue with your visa.

The Home Office recognises the current situation is exceptional and will not take any action against students who are unable to attend their studies due to the coronavirus outbreak.

They are monitoring the situation closely and will provide updated guidance which the University will follow. We will inform you of any significant changes and what they mean for you.

Can I work full-time on my tier 4 visa whilst the University is closed?

Whilst most University facilities may be closed, teaching has moved online, and the normal term-time working conditions attached to your visa still apply. The UKVI have introduced some exceptions for people working in the NHS and you are advised to contact visas@le.ac.uk for more specific information.

I have submitted an application in the UK to extend my tier 4 visa but I cannot book a biometric appointment. What will this mean for my visa?

Currently UKVCAS Centres in the UK are closed and are not accepting any more bookings. However, provided you submitted your visa application online before your current visa expired your current visa conditions will be extended. This means that you will remain lawfully in the UK, even if your immigration permission comes to an end whilst you are waiting for a decision.

If you have recently submitted a visa application in the UK, please download your Tier 4 checklist and send it to visas@le.ac.uk as evidence of your continuing right to study which they will attach to your record.

If I remain in the UK, can I stay in University accommodation?

Yes, University accommodation will remain open as normal. If your accommodation contract is coming to an end, please contact the Accommodation Team at accommodation@le.ac.uk to get an extension to your contract.

Will there be support for students staying in accommodation?

Students can raise concerns relating to the coronavirus or report self-isolation via this online form.In addition, students can contact welfare@leicester.ac.uk
for any support needs they have or make contact with members of the accommodation team via accommodation@leicester.ac.uk.  
 
The Accommodation Team are continuing to work 24/7 to support students during their stay. Staff are available in Receptions and via video call.

Will there be any campus teams of staff or volunteer students to support international students remaining in University accommodation, with practical needs such as obtaining food or medicines if isolating?

Staff from the accommodation team will remain on site to support students where needed, through remote methods to support social distancing. Guidance on obtaining medicines is available in the Your health and safety section of our FAQs for students.

What should I do if my accommodation contract is finishing and I need to stay on?

I am going home to or am already in China, will I be able to access all the platforms the University uses so that I can continue my studies from China?

Yes, all the University platforms are accessible from China. Any students who experience any difficulties accessing University platforms should contact library@le.ac.uk.

What resources from the University Library will I be able to access from China?

All of the Library’s digital resources are accessible from China. Any students who experience any difficulties accessing University platforms should contact library@le.ac.uk.

If I need to complete timed online assessments from my home country, will they be scheduled to take account of differences in time zones?

Assessments will be adjusted in the light of the changes to teaching. Schools have been asked to consider imminent assessment deadlines as a priority. Physical examinations in May will not take place and will be replaced with alternative online assessments. For any timed online assessments, we will give consideration to differences in time zones in how we schedule these.

I am remaining in the UK but the situation in my home country is causing me to be in financial hardship, how can I seek support?

If you are experiencing financial difficulties you will be able to access support through the University’s International Hardship Fund. You can download the form from our website.

I am currently on a year in industry, what should I do?

Please follow your employer’s policies and procedures if they close due to a coronavirus outbreak. Also, advise your placement supervisor as soon as possible if you are working from home. 
 
If you wish to leave your placement early, you should discuss this with your employer and contact your placement supervisor who will support you with the required steps. This includes requesting authorised absence if you hold a student visa. We do not anticipate any issues for your visa, even if you chose to return home during this period provided you notify visas@le.ac.uk. 
 
If your placement is terminated or ends early due to issues associated with the coronavirus, the University will ensure that you are not negatively affected in terms of your academic studies or your degree title.

I need to update my current Police registration Certificate but the Police Nationality office is closed. What should I do?

Due to current social distancing measure you are currently unable to update your Police Registration Certificate with any changes, e.g. a new address, new visa. You must register any changes with the police once restrictions are lifted.

If you are applying to extend your visa in the UK, you should submit your certificate along with other documents in support of your application as normal.

I have completed my studies but am remaining in accommodation as unable to return home, can I still access support?

Yes, we are still supporting those who have completed their studies but remain in UoL accommodation. If an issue relates to accommodation please contact accommodation@le.ac.uk or welfare@le.ac.uk

Government guidance available in various languages

Government guidance about social distancing and self-isolation are available on its pages in various languages. Please share with anyone who you feel may benefit from it.

Letter from Minister Donelan to International Students

Download letter from Minister Donelan (PDF, 200KB)

Will research activities continue?

If you recently returned to laboratory research, please do not come onto campus unless you have been specifically advised to do so by your College Director of Operations or Dean of Research. Research that does not require on-campus facilities or fieldwork can carry on as normal. You are encouraged to carry out any work that you can at home. If you reside within Leicester you should follow government guidance and adhere to the local restrictions. If you are unable to continue research at home or to make progress towards the completion of your degree, you may wish to consider a suspension of registration. Find more information on suspension of registration guidance or contact: pgresearch@leicester.ac.uk

What is the University advice to PGR students if they feel unwell?

Students can get in touch with student support services by using this link. This is available for all students.

Can I continue to study off-campus?

If you are currently undertaking or planning to return to your home country for a period of off-campus study, you should follow the Foreign Commonwealth Office (FCO) guidance to make an informed decision on whether or not to travel.

What will happen to my stipend during the closure period?

Any stipend administered by the University will continue to be paid during the University closure. If you fall ill, you can take a medical suspension and the stipend will continue to be paid for up to 13 weeks. For details concerning extensions to postgraduate research funding, please see the relevant FAQ.

Will I still submit my thesis?

If you are due to submit your thesis for examination during the University’s full closure, we will accept a PDF version of your thesis. This should be submitted to pgresearch@le.ac.uk. We understand that you may encounter difficulties in completing your thesis due to the extraordinary circumstances of the COVID-19 situation and the Dean of the Doctoral College will give reasonable consideration to requests for extensions to registration.

If you are submitting your thesis following the completion of amendments as confirmed by your internal examiner, this should be sent as a PDF to ethesis@le.ac.uk or follow the file sending instructions here. The David Wilson Library will not be able to accept hardbound copies of your thesis until the University reopens.

Will research activities continue?

Research that does not require on-campus facilities can carry on as normal and you are encouraged to carry out any work that you can at home. If you are unable to continue research at home or to make progress towards the completion of your degree, you may wish to consider a suspension of registration. For more information on suspension of registration see the guidance here or contact pgresearch@leicester.ac.uk

What will happen to my supervisory meetings?

Supervisory meetings must take place remotely, via video conference wherever possible, and arrangements should be agreed with your supervisor. You should continue to meet virtually with your supervisor on a regular basis and meet any attendance monitoring requirements. Full-time students should meet with their supervisory at least monthly and part-time students at least every two months.

What will happen to my probation review meetings?

Probation review meetings will take place remotely and arrangements will be agreed with your school. The probation review is an important opportunity for you to discuss your project and plans with academic staff outside of your supervisory team. Expectations of the panel will be adjusted to account for the disruptions caused by COVID19 and the University campus closure.

What if I am a Tier 4 Sponsored Student?

If you are an international student studying on a Tier 4 visa and wish to return home you may choose to do so, and the University will continue to offer support. This will also be the case if your government requires you to return to your home country.

If, due to the nature of your research, you are able to engage with your studies from home, the University can continue to sponsor you as long as you continue to have remote supervision sessions with your supervisor.

If you do decide to return home please complete a ‘Request for Period of Off-campus Study’ and submit it to the Doctoral College Office. When you leave the UK you must send either your e-ticket, boarding card or flight booking to Student Immigration Advice and Compliance so they can update your record.

What if I am a Tier 4 Sponsored Student and I cannot continue to study?

If you are unable to continue studying and wish to suspend your studies for the time being you should discuss the matter with your Supervisor or department. If you do decide to suspend your studies you will need to submit a ‘Request for Suspension of Programme’ to the Doctoral College Office.

If the suspension is more than 60 days and related to the current Covid Crisis the University can continue to sponsor you as long as you intend to resume your studies. To discuss any specific circumstances regarding your visa, please contact visas@le.ac.uk.

If you leave the UK during your suspension you must send either your e-ticket, boarding card or flight booking to Student Immigration Advice and Compliance so they can update your record.

What will be the arrangement for my viva and/or in-person assessment?

If you are due to have a viva examination, this can go ahead and should be conducted remotely. All arrangements should be with the agreement of yourself and your examiners. Your School Office can make arrangements for it to take place remotely.

Where can I find specific advice for medical students?

Specific advice for medical students regarding aspects of their programme, including assessments, teaching, placements, volunteering and international student advice are published in advice notes on Blackboard for each year cohort under ‘Curriculum Updates’. A full record of all advice notes to students since the commencement of the Covid-19 crisis remains available. Specific enquires may also be directed to the Phase 1 and Phase 2 offices by e-mail as appropriate, or their personal or year tutor. Students are encouraged not to hesitate to come forward with questions and we will do our best to answer them.

I'm a parent and my child's school is closed – what should I do? 

Please contact your University School to let them know. We will be working with Schools to facilitate as much learning as possible whilst you are at home.

It's not easy to study with little ones underfoot, but keep up with online teaching materials where possible. If you are not able to submit any assessments as the result of unforeseeable childcare commitments, please submit a mitigating circumstances claim – you will not be required to provide evidence of school closures.

I have a dependent who has been advised to self-isolate.

If you have a dependent (eg your child, or an adult who you care for) who needs to self-isolate please use this link to let us know. If you wish to get in touch with our student support services, please email welfare@le.ac.uk.

Will graduation be cancelled?

Regrettably, we now have taken the difficult decision to postpone our graduation ceremonies which were due to be held on 14 to 17 July 2020. We know that this will be disappointing news for our final year students but the safety and wellbeing of graduands and guests is our primary concern. We have also taken into account in this decision the ongoing uncertainty around how long restrictions on travel and large gatherings will remain in place, and the impact of this on our ability to prepare for graduation ceremonies and on your ability to plan to attend with your guests. Please be assured that all students will still be given the opportunity to attend a graduation ceremony. These will be held during the 2020/21 academic year.

When will my graduation ceremony take place?

Additional ceremonies are being scheduled for January and July 2021 which will only be for the class of July 2020, so that we can all celebrate the achievements of the class of 2020 in its own right. We do not intend to hold ceremonies where students from 2020 and 2021 graduate together.

We know that many international students have visas that expire during September or October 2020, and we considered whether we could schedule the ceremonies to take place before standard visa expiry dates. However, given the ongoing uncertainty around how long restrictions on travel and large gatherings may remain in place, we felt that it was safest for everyone to postpone the events until next year.

Will I still get a ‘proper’ graduation?

We want to ensure that the class of 2020 have the same graduation experience as other Leicester students, and that includes holding additional ceremonies in De Montfort Hall.

Will I get any financial support towards graduations?

Last year we introduced a bursary scheme to cover the costs of graduation gown hire for students in financial hardship, and we are now developing a scheme to support some students with some other costs of attending graduation, including support for some international students. More details will made available once this scheme is finalised.

Is the University closed?

The University remains closed and semester 2 has now ended. 

If you were unable to return home when the University closed in March, don’t worry - we will continue to look after and support you during this period. The accommodation team and Student Support Services will continue to operate. 

We understand that this situation may affect our students in different ways and you may need practical help, emotional support or expert advice. Help and support is available through Student Support Services via welfare@leicester.ac.uk.

When will the University be re-opening?

The University campus remains closed. We will review this position based on Government advice and we will send regular updates to you via email and through The Citizen when we know more.

Will smaller teaching groups be stopped?

Small group teaching and seminars will be delivered using Blackboard.

Will you stop field trips?

Yes, all student field trips planned until the end of May will no longer take place. Students whose courses involve field trips later in the year will be advised in due course by their School.

What if I have an appointment with Student Support?

If you have a face-to-face appointment booked with counselling, careers, welfare, AccessAbility or visa, you will be contacted via email, by the relevant service to arrange remote means of engagement. Please see the 'Student support' section on this page for more information.

What if I am concerned about the impact of the measures to combat COVID-19 may have on my outcome at the end of the academic year?

We are committed to ensuring you receive the highest quality education, and are working hard to avoid disruption to your studies.

In terms of effect on students’ outcomes at the end of the academic year, please be assured that we are seeking to ensure any impact upon students is minimised, and that account is taken of the impact of any measures such as assessment changes.

You may wish to view the section on the Safety Net policy that the University has introduced, in the section on Examinations and Assessments below.

Is the gym open?

Both University Sports Centres closed as of Wednesday 18 March.

Are catering outlets open?

Catering outlets closed as of Friday 20 March.

If I want to raise a complaint about the COVID-19 pandemic what should I do?

In line with government guidance in response to Covid-19, teaching was moved online from 16 March, campus closed and spring term ended early on 20 March 2020 to ensure the health and safety of all staff and students. During these unprecedented times the University took steps to ensure adequate teaching, learning and assessment continued remotely. The  University continues to follow government guidelines and in line with these will not be offering universal refunds of tuition fees.  

However, the University did offer the opportunity for students to submit a complaint as a result of COVID-19 by 22 May if they had been affected in an exceptional way. As this deadline has passed, we will now only accept late complaints if there was good reason which prevented you from making a complaint by the deadline. For instance that there were significant personal circumstances that impacted upon your ability to meet the deadline of 22 May 2020, supported where possible by evidence. Please note, not being aware of the complaint procedure will not be considered reasonable grounds to accept a complaint at this stage. 

If you feel the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted upon your progression or award you may submit an academic appeal. An appeal is a review of the Board of Examiners’ decision and there are specific grounds that must be met. This should be submitted following the board of examiners notification of your progression or award decision. More information on the academic appeal procedure is available on our complaints and appeals webpage.

You may wish to contact the Advice Service in the Students’ Union for advice regarding these circumstances.  They can be contacted in the Percy Gee Building; or by telephone on 0116 223 1132; or by email at advice@le.ac.uk. Please note that the Advice Service can provide guidance but cannot complete this form on your behalf.

If you wish to submit a complaint, please consider the following points: 

• State  clearly why you believe the University has not fulfilled its responsibilities as a result of COVID-19, taking account of the mitigating actions taken to transfer teaching and assessment online. Please provide details of specific modules affected, indicating those where there was no online provision
• Explain why you feel that the mitigating actions taken by the University have not been adequate during the current pandemic
• Clearly state what action you seek from the University (noting the general statement about tuition fee refunds above)

The form and further details about the complaints procedure can be found on the student feedback and complaints procedure page. The Advice Service (advice@le.ac.uk) in the Students’ Union can offer support with regard to complaints. If you have any queries about the process, please contact the Quality Office at qualoffice@le.ac.uk.

If you have already submitted a complaint in relation to COVID-19, please be advised that we are currently experiencing high volumes of correspondence and are working hard to process these complaints as quickly as possible, whilst working remotely. Please be assured that your complaint is being actively reviewed and as soon as a further update is available, you will receive it. We thank you for your patience at this unprecedented time. 

Will graduation be cancelled?

Regrettably, we now have taken the difficult decision to postpone our graduation ceremonies which were due to be held on 14 to 17 July 2020. We know that this will be disappointing news for our final year students but the safety and wellbeing of graduands and guests is our primary concern. We have also taken into account in this decision the ongoing uncertainty around how long restrictions on travel and large gatherings will remain in place, and the impact of this on our ability to prepare for graduation ceremonies and on your ability to plan to attend with your guests. Please be assured that all students will still be given the opportunity to attend a graduation ceremony. These will be held during the 2020/21 academic year.

When will my graduation ceremony take place?

Additional ceremonies are being scheduled for January and July 2021 which will only be for the class of July 2020, so that we can all celebrate the achievements of the class of 2020 in its own right. We do not intend to hold ceremonies where students from 2020 and 2021 graduate together.

We know that many international students have visas that expire during September or October 2020, and we considered whether we could schedule the ceremonies

Is the library still open? 

The David Wilson Library building remains closed, in line with the government’s lockdown guidance. However, we continue to provide many of our services digitally, including access to eBooks, eJournals and databases. The Library’s email enquiry services remains open and you can book a 1-2-1 virtual support session with a librarian, research consultant or an academic skills advisor.

To find out more email us on library@le.ac.uk, visit library help and follow us on twitter @UoLDWL. Our re-opening plans are under constant review and further updates will be posted here and on the Library website.  .

Do I need to return my books?

All loans will continue to renew automatically. You may receive a recall email but this can be ignored. There will be no fines during this period. If you’ve any questions please email library@le.ac.uk

How can I access online material?

Use Library Search on the Library Homepage to search for and access digital library resources. You will need to use your IT username and password. If you have any problems please email library@le.ac.uk. 

My student account expires soon and my library books won't renew, what should I do?

If you are finishing your course our system will automatically update your account to 'reference rights only' meaning that you wouldn't be able to renew any physical items you have on loan. If your course is continuing past your original end date, please contact Student Registration or your Department as they will need to approve an extension for your studies before we can renew the books for you. If you have any queries regarding your student registration please contact the Student Services Centre at studentservices@le.ac.uk They are responding to emails Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm.

Can I still place holds on physical items?

Continue to place your requests and we will try to find an electronic version which we will supply to you.

Can I still make inter-library loan requests?

Continue to place your requests and we will try to fulfil them electronically where we can obtain them.

How can I get help from library staff?

Our Enquiry Service remains open and is monitored Monday - Friday 9am - 7pm, Saturday 11am - 3pm and Sundays 12pm - 4pm. Please email library@le.ac.uk or visit library help for up to date information.

Can I visit and use other university libraries for my studies/research?

Please check the visiting university’s website for details of their access arrangements.

How can I access my University email off campus?

You can access your University email from any modern web browser. Go to webmail.le.ac.uk.

How can I hold an online meeting?

You can hold online meetings using Microsoft Teams app. Install the app on your mobile phone, laptop or desktop computer. See the Meetings in Teams Microsoft help page.

How can I edit files off campus?

All of Office 365, including online versions of Word, Excel and PowerPoint can be accessed from Office 365. You can store files using OneDrive. Your Personal Z: drive is available through MyFiles

Can I Print a document?

Unfortunately, as all buildings on campus are closed, printing is not currently possible. If you are a PhD student seek advice from your supervisor.

I have a placement arranged in the UK or abroad - will this be cancelled/should I still go?

Given the impact of the current outbreak and associated restrictions on some organisations it may be that placements are not possible. There is restrictions on travel at this time so you should contact your academic school for confirmation of action taken with regard to any placements you were due to undertake as a formal part of your studies. 

Where placements have been organised with third parties and are separate to your studies you should check with the placement provider as to whether it can go ahead.  

Placements that were due to be undertaken as part of modules have been largely cancelled as part of the actions to restrict the potential spread of COVID-19. , and what alternatives will be in place for these modules.

I am unwell and am unable to gain medical evidence.

If you suffer mitigating circumstances for your assessments, you should submit a claim for mitigating circumstances via MyStudentRecord. If your circumstances relate to ill-health you are not required to provide medical evidence, but you will need to highlight which assessments are affected. If you are unable to undertake assessments it may be necessary for you to take alternative assessments at a later date in place of those missed.

I am experiencing mitigating circumstances that are not health related.

For any wider mitigating circumstances affecting assessments you should submit a claim for mitigating circumstances via MyStudentRecord. You will not usually be expected to provide evidence to support your claim during the current pandemic as we recognise that may not be possible.  You should submit your claim with any evidence that you have and your school will contact you if further information is required. 

I am unable to study or undertake assessments remotely as I do not have access to appropriate IT facilities – can I apply for mitigating circumstances?

Please inform your school if you are unable to access IT facilities remotely and we will work with you as far as possible to support you to study and take assessments.

I am unable to take my assessments in May and wish to defer them

Please inform your school if you wish to defer your assessments. You can either defer them until the August re-assessment period, or you can request to defer them to the next academic year. If you do so you will be able to take the assessments without residence, meaning that you do not need to return to Leicester in the interim.

Please speak to your school regarding what option might be best for you.

The deadline for informing the University of your choice is the 8 May.

I am unwell due to a flare up of my long term condition or disability.

If you have experienced a flare up of your long term condition or disability and have missed assessment deadlines, submit a claim for mitigating circumstances via MyStudentRecord.  You will need to highlight which assessments are affected.  If you are unable to undertake assessments at present you may have to take alternative assessments at a later date to replace those missed.  You are not required to provide medical evidence of a flare up in a long term condition or disability if you have already lodged evidence with the AccessAbility Centre or your department.  

If you have not been in touch with the AccessAbility Centre yet, do email accessable@le.ac.uk for support.

I am a Distance Learning Student: I am unwell and am unable to gain medical evidence

If you suffer mitigating circumstances for your assessments, you should submit a claim for mitigating circumstances via MyStudentRecord. If your circumstances relate to ill-health you are not required to provide medical evidence, but you will need to highlight which assessments are affected. If you are unable to undertake assessments it may be necessary for you to take alternative assessments at a later date in place of those missed.

I am a Distance Learning Student: I am experiencing mitigating circumstances that are not health related

For any wider mitigating circumstances affected assessments you should submit a claim for mitigating circumstances via MyStudentRecord. Depending on the nature of the circumstances you may be required to provide evidence to support your claim, but we recognise that may not be possible in all cases. You should submit your claim with any evidence that you have and your school will contact you if further information is required.

I am a Distance Learning Student: What will happen to how I study?

Both academic and professional services staff are working hard to continue to support you and hope that the delivery of flexible and distance learning courses will continue mostly unaffected. We will of course endeavour to ensure that updates are provided should any elements change. 

The Distance Learning Team is available to answer any queries that you may have. Please help us respond to your enquiry efficiently by including your name and student ID number in the email subject title:

• all distance learning courses;
• School of Business courses (specifically).

Will exams for Distance Learning students be cancelled?

Examinations currently scheduled for Distance Learning programmes will not take place at examination venues (neither here in the UK or overseas). The University will continue to review this position.  

You will be contacted with information about how you will be assessed in your modules. In the majority of cases alternative assessments are being devised. Information on how these alternative assessments will take place will be provided in due course.

What about Masterclasses, Residential and Study School events for Distance Learners?

Events are currently being reviewed, and should any changes be forthcoming, these will be clearly communicated to all the relevant students.

When will I receive my Student ID card?

We are not currently able to dispatch student ID cards to our distance learning students. Please accept our apologies, we hope to have this service up and running in due course.

Will exams take place on campus?

There were no campus-based examinations in May or June. All of our planned examinations for the May/June period were moved to forms of assessment which could be undertaken remotely, such online, open book assessments or essay style assessments to ensure timely progression for all of you. 

Have you considered IT access for online assessments?

Online assessments should not have high IT access demands and should be accessible to as many students as possible.

To reduce pressure on internet access for students, we have adopted a minimum 24-hour submission window for all of most online assessment unless there are additional regulatory body requirements in which case your School will notify you. Although you will have at least 24 hours to complete your assignments, they are designed to take much less time to complete than the designated submission window and we do not expect you to work for more than a few hours at a time to complete them. We are also designing assessments that can be accessed and completed without demanding IT access requirements wherever possible.

If your personal situation means that you will be unable to download and upload a particular assessment within the given assessment window, please contact your School or covid19help@le.ac.uk and we will work with you to find the best way to support your studies.

Will first-year and foundation-year students have exams?

Wherever possible we are requiring no further formal exams or assessments of our first-year and foundation-year students, but instead offering the opportunity to take formative assessments for the second semester on which you will receive feedback on your academic progress. 

There are a small number of first- or foundation year programmes where assessment will still take place either because this is required for accreditation reasons or for specific progression purposes.

Where you are required to undertake assessment you will be informed by your academic school.

If you have failed semester one assessments you will be given the opportunity to take these in the August assessment period (17-27 August unless otherwise notified by your School) or to carry the failed assessments into your second year of study and resit/resubmit them in the 2020/21 academic year.

Am I able to defer my end of year assessment?

If you were not in a position to take your summer assessments, and requested a deferral the additional assessment period  it has been confirmed that this will take place from 17-27 August for most degree programmes, there are a few exceptions and your School will notify you if the dates are different for your programme. 

If you have chosen to defer your assessment, your award or progression decision will be delayed. However, it may still possible for you to graduate with your cohort and friends in the 2020 cohort degree ceremonies we are hoping to hold in January or July 2021.