One in five students would not enrol in university next year if lectures were online

Today’s blog looks at reporting of a UCU survey on students looking to defer their university place if teaching is to take place online.

The University and College Union have published a survey of students today (21 May) stating one in five students would not enrol in university next year if lectures were online.

The Guardian suggess this will mean a £760m funding gap for institutions.

Universities Minister Michelle Donelan said:

I understand that this an incredibly difficult time for students, so it is vital that universities are clear to students about how courses will be delivered in the coming year. I would urge students to think carefully about all their options and make informed decisions that best serve their futures.

I want to reassure students that we are working with the sector to ensure all reasonable efforts are being made to enable students to continue their studies and we have seen some fantastic and innovative examples of high-quality online learning delivered across the country.

We have introduced a package of measures to support universities with the pressures they are facing at this uncertain time. This includes confirming access to Government financial support schemes worth an estimated £700m, and bringing forward £2.6bn of tuition fee funding.