Could thousands of students win COVID compensation from universities?
Could thousands of students win COVID compensation from universities?
Nearly 200,000 students who attended university during the pandemic are pursuing financial redress. The initiative, led by the Student Group Claim, contends that the shift to online learning reduced the value of services students paid for, triggering legal action under English consumer law.
Scope of the Legal Claim
Initiated in 2023, the claim initially garnered 100,000 signatories, but its reach has expanded to 170,000. Legal notices have been dispatched to 36 universities, detailing the proposed compensation case. The focus of the claim now specifically targets the 2020-21 and 2021-22 academic years, when teaching moved online due to the pandemic.
Students must have accepted an offer before 1 April 2020 to qualify. However, certain scenarios are excluded, such as:
- Online instruction during the 2019-20 academic year
- Restrictions on campus access across all years
- Cancellations of classes due to industrial action
Reasons for the Claim
The Student Group Claim, spearheaded by Harcus Parker and Asserson solicitors, argues that universities failed to deliver the in-person education and resources students paid for. This discrepancy, they claim, entitles students to compensation.
“We aren’t blaming universities for following government guidelines, but for charging the same fees for a significantly less valuable service,” explained Asal Reyhanian, an associate at Asserson Law Offices.
The claim gained traction after University College London (UCL) settled for £21m in February, acknowledging the pandemic’s impact despite no formal admission of liability. Reyhanian called the settlement a “strong precedent,” noting it inspired 50,000 additional signatories. The legal team emphasized that students were essentially paying for a “five-star experience” but receiving “one-star service.”
Participating Institutions
Following UCL’s settlement, 36 universities have received legal correspondence outlining the case. Universities UK, representing over 140 institutions, acknowledged the pandemic as an “unprecedented challenge” and noted the sector’s efforts to adapt to changing circumstances.
Estimated Compensation
The compensation amount varies depending on the institution, fees, and the extent of disruption. The Student Group Claim estimates that UK-based undergraduates could receive an average of £5,000. Courses requiring more in-person interaction and facility use might qualify for higher payouts.
The deadline for submitting claims is set for September 2026, giving students time to seek resolution. Legal action remains ongoing as the case continues to grow in scope and support.
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Law Firms Involved
The case is being managed by Harcus Parker and Asserson solicitors, who are working to establish the validity of the claim across English and Welsh universities.
