Could thousands of students win COVID compensation from universities?
Could thousands of students win COVID compensation from universities?
Over 170,000 university students who studied during the pandemic are pursuing financial redress from higher education institutions. The case hinges on the argument that remote learning reduced the quality of services they paid for, creating a discrepancy between expectations and delivery.
Scope of the claim
The Student Group Claim, spearheaded by Harcus Parker and Asserson solicitors, asserts that universities offered a diminished service during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 academic years. By English consumer law, students are entitled to refunds for the value lost when campus facilities and in-person classes were unavailable due to lockdowns.
Initially launched in 2023 with 100,000 participants, the no-win-no-fee initiative has since expanded. Legal notices have been dispatched to 36 institutions, signaling the potential for a broader legal action.
Exclusions from the claim
- Teaching shifted online in 2019-20 due to the pandemic
- Restrictions on campus access during any academic year
- Class cancellations caused by industrial action in any year
Students qualifying for compensation must have accepted offers before April 1, 2020. The focus remains on the transition to digital learning in specific years, excluding earlier disruptions or other service interruptions.
Why the claim gained traction
The settlement by University College London (UCL) in February sparked renewed interest. While UCL admitted no fault, it acknowledged the challenges faced by students during lockdowns. The £21m payout was described as a “test case” by Asserson Law Offices, highlighting the potential for compensation.
“We aren’t criticising universities for following government guidelines, but for charging the same fees as if they had provided a full service,” said Asal Reyhanian, an associate at Asserson Law Offices. “It’s like paying for a five-star holiday and receiving a one-star experience – you deserve compensation.”
With the deadline set for September 2026, the law firms estimate UK residents could receive an average of £5,000 per claim. The amount varies based on individual circumstances, including course fees and the extent of in-person learning lost.
Universities UK’s response
Universities UK emphasized the sector’s adaptability during the pandemic, noting that institutions “had to adjust quickly to a changing environment.” A spokesperson stated: “Some lockdown periods prevented in-person teaching, yet universities ensured students completed their studies through innovative methods.”
As the legal process unfolds, the outcome may redefine how universities account for pandemic-era disruptions in their service provision. Students are advised to review their eligibility and prepare claims accordingly.
