Covid-19 (Coronavirus) FAQs

We are all facing extraordinary, unprecedented global challenges and having to make decisions about future commitments with an ever changing backdrop of information.  We have put together answers to some of the most frequently asked questions by our international community of students and agents so you can quickly find out what is happening at the University of Brighton.

Current students

Will the University be closing?

Following the Government’s announcements about the closure of our country’s schools, colleges and the cancellation of public exams, the University has now moved to remote working, including remote teaching, learning and assessment for its students. Whilst the University will continue to operate in this remote format, all university buildings (except for halls of residence) closed at 5pm on Friday 20 March until further notice.

Should students who are currently enrolled with UK institutions return to their home countries?

This is entirely the decision of the individual student, their parents /sponsors / supporters. The University will continue to support students who opt to return home to continue with their studies. Any students considering going home for an extended period should notify their course leader on the form provided on our International FAQ page.

Can the student remain in their accommodation over the summer break if they can’t return home safely?

Yes, all students who live in halls will continue to have accommodation provided. Those students in private accommodation should check with their own landlord. We are looking at a range of options for how we can continue to support to EU/International students who may not be able to travel home.

As the UK government has announced that they won’t be testing for those who have mild symptoms, is there any assistance from the university to seek advice if they’ve got the symptoms?

The Department of Health and Social Care and Public Health England are still the best sources for up to date information and advice relating to the virus. Our advice is still to contact NHS 111 or NHS111 online in the first instance they will advise you what to do if you are displaying symptoms.

What will the impact be on visas in relation to students who left their course and the UK this week?

Any international/EU student who wishes to or is required by their sponsor to return home for an extended period will be supported in continuing their studies. Please take a look at our guidance for international students on their visa status.

Are exams being cancelled?

No, exams are not being cancelled; the University will be switching to online assessments rather than holding exams. Please check Student Central for your own individual assessment arrangements.

How will students be assessed at the end of the study period in the absence of formal lectures and group tutorials?

Students should submit coursework assessments as per normal processes. Assessments will continue as planned where possible and alternative arrangements will be put in place on a module by module basis. Any changes to assessments will be communicated through student central so please keep checking.

Returning students

Can I expect the university to start as normal in September?

We are continuously monitoring the situation and liaising closely with Public Health England (PHE). We will know more closer to the time.

What will happen if the student cannot return after Easter due to travel restrictions?

The University will continue to support students with their learning through remote online learning. The student should stick to the timetable they have been issued – this will ensure there are no module clashes. Module tutors will endeavour to use these slots to deliver teaching, respond to student questions or facilitate a discussion forum. For those students who have a time difference which makes this unreasonable these sessions will be recorded in Microsoft Teams so you are able to access the material at a later date.

Can students stay in the UK away from college?

This is entirely the decision of the student themselves. The University will support all students, regardless of their location, to continue their studies through remote online learning.

Applicants

What will happen to the foundation students in regards to degree course applications?

We expect all students completing Foundation or Pre-Masters studies within our University of Brighton International College (UBIC) to be able to progress onto their chosen degree course just as they would in any other year.

Will students receive a refund for the weeks of lessons they miss?

All students have now moved to remote learning and are being fully supported to continue their studies online.

Are we looking at online delivery for courses starting in September 2020?

The University is accepting applications for 2020 entry as normal and will be monitoring the situation closely over the next few months. We will provide further updates in due course.

Can I apply for accommodation now for 2020/21?

Yes, application for university halls is now open. You will receive your invitation to apply very soon. All eligible applicants are guaranteed an offer of a room in halls. We are reviewing our application deadline with a view to extending it, given the degree of upheaval caused by COVID19.

How can I find out more about being a student at Brighton?

There are still loads of ways to find out about studying here. Get in touch with our enquiries team online, by phone and through live chat. Message current students and say hello through the Unibuddy app and book a place on our regular online events. We are updating Twitter and Facebook and keeping the positive vibes growing on Instagram. There are loads of great courses and subject social media channels too. Finally, make sure to read or emails – we will send you helpful reminders and advice on a regular basis.

Find out more about studying with us

We have a series of online events planned where you can chat to staff and students. Find out more here.

You can also ask questions to current students and read blogs they have written through our website.

Our enquiries team deal with the majority of queries key contacts can be found on our website here.