Could thousands of students win COVID compensation from universities?
Could thousands of students win COVID compensation from universities?
Nearly 200,000 students who studied during the early years of the pandemic are now pursuing financial reparation from their institutions. This initiative, spearheaded by the Student Group Claim, centers on the argument that online learning reduced the value of the services they paid for, according to English consumer law.
Scope of the Claim
The claim, led by law firms Harcus Parker and Asserson solicitors, initially focused on two areas: the loss of campus access during lockdowns and teaching disruptions from strikes. However, by March, the scope had narrowed to specifically address the shift to online classes in the 2020-21 and 2021-22 academic years at English and Welsh universities. To qualify, students must have accepted an offer before April 1, 2020.
“We aren’t criticizing universities for following government guidelines, but for charging the same fees when they provided a significantly less valuable service,” said Asal Reyhanian, an associate at Asserson Law Offices.
“It’s akin to paying for a five-star holiday and receiving a one-star experience. Students are entitled to compensation for the difference in value,” Reyhanian added.
What’s Covered and Excluded
The claim excludes cases involving: • Teaching disruptions in the 2019-20 academic year • Limitations on campus access during any pandemic period • Cancellations due to industrial action in any academic year
Only the transition to online learning in the 2020-21 and 2021-22 years is included, with the core argument being that online courses cost 25-50% less than in-person classes. Universities are expected to reimburse the difference in value.
Why the Claim Emerged
The movement gained momentum in February 2023 after University College London (UCL) agreed to a £21 million settlement. While UCL acknowledged no direct liability, it noted that the pandemic “created disruption across society” and that its response was “creative” under the circumstances.
Reyhanian described the UCL settlement as a “good test case,” which led to an additional 50,000 students joining the claim. The settlement underscores the broader issue of students paying high fees for reduced educational experiences.
Deadline and Potential Compensation
Students have until September 2026 to file their claims. The Student Group Claim estimates that UK-based undergraduates may receive an average of £5,000 in compensation, depending on their course and the extent of their in-person learning. The exact amount will vary based on individual circumstances and the university’s policies.
Universities Involved
Following UCL’s settlement, 36 other institutions have received pre-action letters. These documents formally outline the claim and request specific responses. Universities UK, representing over 140 schools, emphasized that the pandemic posed an “unprecedented challenge” requiring rapid adaptation.
A spokesperson noted: “During some lockdown periods, universities couldn’t offer in-person teaching as usual. They adjusted quickly to ensure students completed their degrees.” The legal action now aims to address the financial impact of these changes on students’ expectations.
Google users can explore additional resources from their preferred sources—click here to make Sky News your default.
