Uni queries still unanswered

Monday 04 May 2020

University students and their parents should find out within weeks what will happen with their courses due to start or continue this Autumn.

So far it is unclear whether universities in the UK will be allowed to reopen next term, as it's suggested physical distancing might be required in the UK for the rest of this year at least.

Guernsey's Committee for Education, Sport and Culture is already working on plans depending on what might happen, with hundreds of young adults due to take up or resume courses in September. 

Ed Ashton, Director of Operations for Education in Guernsey said:

"Like many areas of life at this stage, it is unclear what impact COVID-19 will have on university courses due to begin in the autumn. The hope is that university courses will be able to start as planned and we know universities will be very keen to get students back. We will be making enquiries in the coming weeks to try and establish what universities' Plan B might look like if they can't open in the traditional way from September."

The UK's universities have issued advice to their students and prospective students already, with the University of Birmingham and others among those saying they are closely following guidance issued by the World Health Organisation and the UK government.

"The situation continues to change quickly and we will be working closely with the relevant authorities regarding any potential implications for applicants and new students. When we have updates that are relevant to you we will be in touch, and will update this page with any further updates too," said the University of Birmingham in a statement.

UCAS - the UK's Universities and Colleges Admissions Service - had been given today, 4 May, as a deadline to stop giving students offers for places to study this September. That is because the UK government and UCAS do not want students to accept places in a panic, because of the lack of final exams being sat this year.

"The Government has asked universities and colleges across the UK to stop making unconditional offers or amending existing offers until 4 May (1 May in Wales). This is because they’re worried you’ll feel pressured to accept these offers over others you might be better suited to," said UCAS.

UCAS is working with universities across the country to organise virtual open days while current students are available to 'buddy up' with new ones to give them advice to.

For more information go to UCAS' website HERE.

The grants application process for Bailiwick students is open - but it is not yet open for new students wanting to start their studies in September.

Mr Ashton said the information has been provided to those who can apply now.

"Grant applications are being accepted. Application forms were posted out before lockdown for continuing students and they have been made them available from Student Finance for those set to start university in September. The Student Finance team are primarily working from home although a member of staff is in the office every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The office number is 706560 or parents/students can request a form by emailing studentfinance@gov.gg."