Could thousands of students win COVID compensation from universities?
Could Thousands of Students Secure Compensation from Universities for Pandemic Impact?
Nearly 200,000 students who studied at universities during the pandemic are pursuing financial reparation through a collective legal action. The initiative, spearheaded by law firms Harcus Parker and Asserson solicitors, contends that educational institutions delivered a diminished service compared to what students paid for, particularly during the initial lockdown phases.
Scope of the Claim
The Student Group Claim outlines that the switch to online learning in the academic years 2020-21 and 2021-22 reduced the value of the educational experience. Under English consumer law, students are allegedly entitled to compensation for this discrepancy. Initially, the claim included disputes over campus facility closures and teaching cancellations due to strikes, but its focus has narrowed to online instruction.
Eligibility requires students to have accepted an offer before April 1, 2020. The legal action now excludes:
- Online teaching initiated in the 2019-20 academic year
- Restrictions on campus access across all years
- Cancellations of classes caused by industrial action
Why the Claim Emerged in 2023
The movement gained momentum after University College London (UCL) settled for £21 million in February. While UCL acknowledged no legal obligation, the settlement signified recognition of pandemic-related challenges. Asal Reyhanian, a legal associate at Asserson Law Offices, called it a “test case” that inspired further participation.
“We aren’t criticizing universities for following government rules, but for charging the same fees when the service provided was significantly less valuable.”
Following the UCL agreement, 36 universities received formal pre-action letters. These documents detail the claim and request specific responses. The deadline for submissions is set for September 2026.
Estimating Compensation
The potential payout varies depending on the institution, fees, and the extent of disruption. On average, UK-based undergraduates may receive around £5,000, according to the Student Group Claim. Courses requiring more in-person interaction or facility use could yield higher amounts.
Universities UK, representing over 140 institutions, emphasized the sector’s adaptation to pandemic conditions. A spokesperson noted: “Universities operated under strict lockdown protocols and swiftly adjusted to ensure continuity of education.”
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The law firms Harcus Parker and Asserson solicitors continue to lead the case, aiming to address perceived unfairness in tuition fees amid the crisis.
