Studying in the UK and the Coronavirus (COVID-19): FAQ

Studying in the UK and the Coronavirus (COVID-19): FAQ

Students moving abroad for their studies always have questions, but this has never been more the case than during the coronavirus pandemic. In this blog post we have collected our students’ most frequently asked questions and the corresponding answers to assure you that the United Kingdom remains an excellent and safe choice for your studies.

What will the 2021-2022 academic year look like?

Universities are ready to deliver excellent tuition this upcoming academic year. Many universities will adopt a hybrid approach which means that some classes will be taught in-person while others will remain online.

How do I get vaccinated as an international student?

Getting vaccinated as an international student in the UK is a very easy process. Everyone aged 18 and over is eligible to receive the coronavirus vaccination for free. The easiest way to get vaccinated is by registering with your local GP, however, you can still access NHS vaccination services if you are not registered. You can do this by booking a Covid-19 vaccination appointment as an unregistered patient through a local GP practice, by visiting the covid vaccination website or by calling 119.

Who needs to quarantine in government hotels?

Students and all other passengers coming from “red-list countries” need to quarantine in government hotels. These countries are as follows:

Afghanistan, Angola, Argentina, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bolivia, Botswana, Brazil, Burundi, Cape Verde, Chile, Colombia, Congo (Democratic Republic), Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Egypt, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, French Guiana, Guyana, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Maldives, Mongolia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Qatar, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Uganda, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Uruguay, Venezuela, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Will universities cover the cost of quarantining?

Some universities have decided to help cover the cost of accommodation and testing in managed hotel quarantine sites. Currently, the cost of quarantining in a government designated hotel is £1750 and £150 for the required tests. The amount of financial aid you may receive is dependent on the university and/or your financial means.

These universities are offering an extensive COVID-19 support package to their students:

• University of Bristol
• Cranfield University
• Aston University
• University of York
• Regent’s University London
• University of Leeds
• Oxford Brookes University
• University of Lincoln
• Royal Holloway University of London
• Queen Mary University of London

This list is by no means exhaustive, so do get in contact with us for more information or if you are unsure if your university provides any assistance.

Is there any financial aid available for international students?

Many universities and colleges have student hardship funds, and the UK government has increased the amount of funding available to universities to support students experiencing difficulties as a result of COVID-19. In many cases, this funding is available to international and EU students.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need support – your university is there to help you.

What COVID-19 related documents do I need to enter the UK?

You will need proof of a negative corona test taken in the last 72 hours prior to departure. It is also a good idea to bring proof of any coronavirus vaccinations you may have had in your home country. 

What should I do if I think I have COVID-19?

If you are feeling very ill seek prompt medical attention by calling 999. However, if it is not an emergency contact NHS 111 online or call 111.

Get a test as soon as possible if you have any symptoms of coronavirus or if you have been in contact with anyone who has tested positive.

The symptoms are:

• A high temperature
• A new, continuous cough
• A loss or change to your sense of smell or taste.

Don’t forget to inform any people that you have been in close contact with that you have coronavirus symptoms. Lastly, don’t worry! The NHS is a world-renowned health service, and you are in great hands if you become ill.

 

If you have any more concerns or questions regarding the UK or studying abroad there, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Book your free initial consultation today!