COVID-19 - FAQs

Your September start

The health, safety and wellbeing of our students, staff and visitors is always our primary concern.

Our absolute priorities are your health and wellbeing, and the student experience.

The commitment of our University community is to ensure a fulfilling, fun and safe experience is provided for all new and returning students. We're working hard to ensure that you'll receive excellent teaching and support, and that your life as a student or as a member of staff will be as normal as it can be.

We can now confirm details of how we will learn, live, work and socialise on our campus from 14 September.

Frequently asked questions

Accommodation and campus services Health advice Students Staff Post-graduate research students Applicants Businesses and partners

Can I return to my University campus accommodation when it is safe to do so?

Yes, campus and accommodation is open to all students. As we prepare to start the new academic year, the way we learn and come together may have changed. But we promise to give you the best teaching and learning, the best experiences and the best opportunities as best we can, while keeping you safe in these extraordinary times.

Is the Multi Faith Facility and Chapel closed?

The Muslim Prayer Room and Chapel both closed on 17 March. We are currently working on plans to re-open both these facilities safely as soon as possible.

In the meantime, we’re advising students and University colleagues to get in touch with their faith’s facilities in the community.

You can also visit the official UK websites for your faith and denomination and follow links to their social media accounts to receive notifications of any announcements and updates.

Is the Hull Sport Park and Allam Sport Centre open?

Yes - All Hull Sport Park on campus sport facilities are now open operating in a COVID-19 Secure manner.

This means things are working slightly differently for the gym, as you need to book in to sessions. Occupancy levels for sport facilities are reduced in line with national governing body guidance.

Check out our Facebook page for up to date guidance or have a look through our website. Please direct any questions to sport@hull.ac.uk

Accessing ICT Services at home

You can now find a tile on the Support Portal home page called “Coronavirus – Using ICT Services at Home” where you can find key service information and the most common knowledge items to help you stay connected whilst studying away from campus.

The quickest way to receive help or advice from ICT is to use the search bar at the top of the Support Portal to find the information you require.

If you cannot find what you are looking for using the search bar, go to the service page that your issue or request relates to and complete the relevant attached form. This will mean your call is automatically directed to the appropriate specialist team rather than sitting in a queue waiting to be allocated manually, resulting in a faster response.

You can also go to the "Can't find an answer?" tile on the home page, where you will find links to contact various departments.

For more information on using the Support Portal go to the “Using the support portal and logging calls” tile on the home page.

Protect yourself from coronavirus phishing scams

We are currently seeing a number of phishing scams targeting from fraudsters claiming to be from companies offering information about the coronavirus.

Please be vigilant. If you are not sure if an email is genuine, do not click on any links or open any attachments as a single click can compromise your account or device. All you have to do is forward the email to phishing@hull.ac.uk and then delete it.

For more advice on spotting a phishing scam, please visit the Support Portal and search “phishing”.

How will you ensure the campus is clean?

We are ensuring that there is regular, thorough cleaning in all high-touch points, teaching and social areas.There are hand sanitiser stations available in high footfall areas and social distancing will be managed by signage across campus, including one-way and two-way systems.

Each student attending campus will receive two face coverings each. Information will be provided on where and when you can collect these. We also have cleaners who come regularly to accomodation.

They’ll clean all the public areas and high contact surfaces including corridors, lifts, kitchens, handrails and door handles.

Please do keep your household tidy, and empty your rubbish into the waste bins in your block or the ones outside. We also recommend washing your hands for 20 seconds when you come in and whenyou leave. You can also use our hand sanitiser stations at the entrance.

Staying alert and safe (social distancing)

On May 13, the Government introduced new measures in its response to COVID-19. Full details are available here.

What to do if you have symptoms

Please refer to the NHS guidance for the latest Stay at Home guidance. Please be aware this information changes regularly you should actively check for the latest updates.

If you need medical help

If you need medical help please refer to www.nhs.uk/coronavirus

How can I avoid catching or spreading diseases like Coronavirus, including social distancing

Everyone should do what they can to stop coronavirus spreading.
It is particularly important for people who:

have had an organ transplant
are having certain types of cancer treatment
have blood or bone marrow cancer, such as leukaemia
have a severe lung condition, such as cystic fibrosis or severe asthma
have a condition that makes you much more likely to get infections
are taking medicine that weakens your immune system
are pregnant and have a serious heart condition

wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
stay 2 metres (3 steps) away from other people, if you need to go outside for any of the reasons outlined by Government.

Don’t

Don't touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean

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The following advice is also in place:

If you have symptoms of coronavirus, you'll need to stay at home for 7 days
If you live with someone who has symptoms, you'll need to stay at home for 14 days from the day the first person in the home started having symptoms
If you live with someone who is 70 or over, has a long-term condition, is pregnant or has a weakened immune system, try to find somewhere else for them to stay for 14 days.
If you have to stay at home together, try to keep away from each other as much as possible.

Please continue to check the NHS website for most up to date guidance.

Someone in my household has a suspected/confirmed case of Coronavirus. Should I stay away from the University?

Please follow Government stay at home guidance for households with possible Coronavirus (COVID-19) infection.

What happens if there is a confirmed case of Coronavirus at the University – either a member of staff or student?

Please be assured that the University will follow guidance from Public Health England on any actions that need to be taken to reduce any risk to colleagues and students on campus.

Both staff and students who are required to self-isolate will be fully supported, which includes the provision of food and temporary accommodation for students.

I have a weakened immune system or underlying health condition and am worried about the coronavirus. Who can I speak to?

If you have any specific cause for concern due to an underlying health condition which you feel puts you at additional risk please initially contact your GP for advice. Colleagues should discuss their concern with their line manager, and students should raise their concern with the Student Services team. You can contact Student Services Monday to Friday 9 - 5 pm, call 01482 462222, or Visit myHull Portal to raise an enquiry or speak directly to one of our advisors through live chat.

2020/21 Academic year

Will the next academic year start as planned in September?

Yes, teaching will commence on September 28, with Welcome Fortnight beginning September 14. We're working hard to ensure we can deliver teaching and learning, research, student services and campus facilities, while following guidance from the Government and Public Health England around COVID-19.

Colleagues from each programme have spent time reviewing courses for September to ensure we can continue to provide you with an engaging and inspiring teaching experience, whilst prioritising your safety.

Are all students expected to return to campus in September?

We are looking forward to welcoming all new and returning students onto campus in September. It is the expectation that students, in Hull, are able to start or recommence their studies from the appropriate date when induction and teaching starts, which for many is 28 September.

We do appreciate that this may not be possible for some students, for example, those who are shielding, and we are here to support you in undertaking your studies and enjoying a wider student experience whatever your circumstances. Students with concerns should contact their Personal Supervisor in the first instance.

How much of my teaching will take place online?

From September, we are offering a blended learning experience to students. This will consist of a mixture of face-to-face activity on-campus and practical teaching sessions in our specialist facilities, complemented by online delivery for our lectures and elements of directed learning online. We are carefully considering how to balance our commitment to providing you with the best possible learning experience, while ensuring your safety and wellbeing. Details for Undergraduate students on how your course will be taught in September and any changes can now be found on our changes to courses page.

Will accommodation be open in September?

For those students choosing to live with us this year, we are pleased to say that our on-campus accommodation is ready for your arrival from 10 September. We have worked hard to make sure that it fully complies with health and safety best practice and the latest social distancing guidelines. To ensure your wellbeing, our accommodation will have increased safety measures, hand sanitiser stations in high footfall areas and will be based on a household model of around 8 people. All students who have opted to live on-site should have received an email with more information.

Should I continue to live in Hull?

From September, we will offer an on-campus teaching and learning experience for all students, as well as reactivating as many on-campus facilities as possible, in line with Government guidelines. We are confident that we can safely offer our students a quality on-campus student experience, whilst continuing to prioritise your health and safety at all times.

What does this mean for the campus facilities?

We know that being at university is about a wider student experience, as much as it is about getting your degree. Our campus-based accommodation, library facilities and student services play an important part in this and we are committed to continuing to offer these safely and securely. We know, too, that the social aspects of university life are really important – sports, societies, and meeting up with friends. There will be a range of outdoor seating and social spaces available from 14 September for Welcomefest events and activities, and many of our cafes and restaurants are working to being open soon, if they are not already.

Non-academic support services

How do I access student services?

Our Student Services team remains committed to providing you with their full support.

You can contact Student Services Monday to Friday 9 - 5 pm, call 01482 462222, or Visit myHull Portal to raise an enquiry or speak directly to one of our advisors through live chat.

Our services include:

Mental Health Support - more information about the support available, how you can access some useful resources, and advice on dealing with the current situation is available here.
The Student Life team are offering support and advice relating to academic issues, including assessment and engagement. They can also help with any worries and concerns regarding your University accommodation (for external private landlords, please see the HUU Advice Centre, or your landlord) and can support you if you are worried or concerned about the current situation.
Learning Support helps students with specific learning differences, such as dyslexia and dyspraxia.
Disability Inclusion support students with a disability and physical health concerns, both temporary and permanent.
The Financial Support team provide guidance to students who may find themselves in financial hardship.
The Immigration and Visa Compliance team support study-related immigration and Tier 4 sponsorship queries.
Careers and Employability support students to decide what to do next after University and help you to develop and fulfil your career potential. More information about the support available can be found here.
We have specialist staff available to support you with using our Assistive Technology equipment.
The Occupational Health team can be contacted for students support on occupationalhealth@hull.ac.uk or 01482 466010.

Urgent and 24 Hour Support

If you require urgent support around any of the issues below, please utilise your local emergency and NHS contacts. We are asking you to do this, as our priority is to make sure that you are safe and receive the most appropriate support quickly.

If you live in Hull or the East Riding and have an urgent mental health need, please contact NHS – Mental Health Response Team 01482 301701, in the first instance. For those not currently residing in the Hull/East Riding area, your GP can help direct you to your local equivalent service
For any urgent support with regards to sexual violence, please contact the police (999 in an emergency or 101, if there is no immediate danger) and Blue Door can also help
For urgent support with regards to domestic abuse, please contact the police and Women’s Aid
If you have been a victim of crime please contact the police
There are some additional specialist services, such as Samaritans and shout who you can reach out to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week which can be found here.

If you need Student Services support out of hours, please contact our campus Security team in the first instance.

Emergency: 01482 465555
Non-emergency: 01482 466868

Accessing Students’ Union services

The HUU Advice Centre continues to work remotely, and is answering calls from its general advice line on 01482 466263. Alternatively, you can email huu-advice-centre@hull.ac.uk.
Term-time working hours for the Advice Centre are 9.30am-3.00pm Monday-Friday, with more information available at hulluniunion.com/support/advice-centre.
The Student President Team will continue to represent students on all issues. Contact details can be found here.

How can I get in touch with my Faculty Student Hub?

Faculty of Science and Engineering Student Hub
Email: science-hub@hull.ac.uk
Telephone: 01482 466340

Faculty of Arts, Cultures and Education Student Hub
Visit: MyHull
Telephone: 01482 465020

Faculty of Business, Law and Politics Student Hub
Email: fblp-hub@hull.ac.uk
Telephone: 01482 463633

Faculty of Health Sciences Student Hub
Location: Allam Medical Building
Email: FHS-Studenthub@hull.ac.uk
Telephone: 01482 463342

The Doctoral College

For postgraduate research enquiries, please contact The Doctoral School on doctoralcollege@hull.ac.uk or 01482 466844.

How do I access library resources?

On Monday 7 September, the Library re-opened from 08.30 – 20.00 pm Monday to Friday and weekends 09.00 -1730, for current University staff and students only, as a safe personal study environment.

Numbers are limited to individual study spaces and available on the Ground, 1st and 6th Floors. Each space needs to be booked through the online booking system, which is available via the Library website. Once a place is booked it will remain available to you throughout the day, although we do look to ensure maximum usage by re-allocating spaces if bookings are not taken up.

At this point, we are not able to offer browsing access to our print materials, but we are able to retrieve up to 10 items per person once per visit, for collection once you are in the Library.

We are also offering a welcome service from the South entrance, to meet and direct you to your study space. You can reserve books for collection using the library search. Whilst in the Library you can request assistance by emailing libhelp@hull.ac.uk our team are there to help you.

Skills workshops, webinars and personal appointments are continuing, but being delivered online. The Skills Team will continues to help you develop academic and digital skills to support and enhance your studies and research. The team cover study, writing, referencing, resource discovery, analysis, presentation and ICT skills.

All of this can be accessed through the Skills website. New skills guide to help you learn remotely. See the new and returning students webpage.

How do I access the careers service?

Our Student Futures team are available Monday to Friday offering online support via telephone, video conferencing and email. It is important to us that we provide students with the help and advice that they need and that we continue to deliver our support in ways that work best for each individual.

With this in mind, we are also inviting students to complete this form to let us know how we can help them further. Following the completion of the form, the Adviser for the relevant subject area will be in touch to provide support.

In addition, students can also contact us on 01482 462222 or by raising an enquiry via their MyHull portal. Guidance on how you raise an enquiry can be found here.

Accessing ICT Services at home

Accessing ICT Services at home. The best place to find information on how to access University ICT services from home is the Support Portal. You can log into the Support Portal using your University userID and password to access key service information 24/7, explore the Knowledge Base for handy tips, users guides and answers to frequently asked questions and if you cannot find what you are looking for in the Knowledge Base you can log and track your requests online.

On the home page of the Support Portal you will see a tile for a “New and returning students” page where you can find useful links to key ICT service information to help you get started. ICT help and advice. The quickest way to receive help or advice from ICT is to use the search bar at the top of the Support Portal to find the information you require.

You can also go to the "Can't find an answer?" tile on the home page, where you will find links to contact various departments. For more information on using the Support Portal go to the “Using the support portal and logging calls” tile on the home page.

Protect yourself from phishing scams

We are currently seeing a number of phishing scams targeting University students claiming to be from companies offering information about the coronavirus, as well as fraudulent emails trying to obtain bank and personal details by offering bogus grants, awards, and bursaries.

Please be vigilant. If you are not sure an email is genuine, do not click on any links or open any attachments as a single click can compromise your account or device, and do not give away any of your personal details. Instead, forward the email to phishing@hull.ac.uk and then delete it.

For more advice on spotting a phishing scam as well as keeping safe online, go to the “Staying Cyber Secure” page on the Support Portal.

Teaching

New tools to help you learn remotely

Library support for online and remote learning. We have developed new induction videos to introduce the library, learning at university, academic skills and safety and security. If you haven’t already seen these videos as part of induction, you can find them on our webpage for new and returning students. We have a brand new Library Search, designed to help you find electronic resources including books and journals.

Need Library or ICT Support?

We can be reached via Library Live Chat or the Support Portal. The Library Skills Team has lots of useful SkillsGuides to help you make the most of your studies. Remote learning SkillsGuide. Microsoft (Office) 365 SkillsGuide. The Digital Student. Skills for Study

The Library Skills Team will have an interactive workshop programme covering core university skills. Workshops start in November and will be available for booking before. The University has introduced new tools to help you develop your learning and connect with other students in your studies.

All students have access to Microsoft Office. Get started at 365.hull.ac.uk. Microsoft Teams is available to all students at the University of Hull. Immersive Reading is available for Canvas pages and throughout the Microsoft Office suite.

Immersive Reader can read text aloud, translate into different languages, highlight specific lines of text and visualise word meanings through illustrations. It is a great tool that can help you access the material in the course in a smart and efficient way. We do hope that you find it useful.

Should I come on campus for my lectures?

If your lectures are due to be on campus then yes, if you can, you should. We understand that some of you may not be able to attend to on-campus lectures. If this is the case then please contact your Personal Supervisor in the first instance.

Students should have received their timetables in the week beginning 7 September which will explain what is expected from them initially.

If you haven't received this then please get in touch with your student hub. For a breakdown of what your course's teaching model will look like, please see our changes to courses page.

Graduation

Will this affect plans for Graduation ceremonies?

Unfortunately, our 2020 summer graduation ceremonies were sadly postponed this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, therefore, physical graduation ceremonies will now take place in 2021.

Along with next year’s official graduation ceremony, we wanted to be able to celebrate our student's brilliant achievements now and therefore held a series of pre-recorded celebration events on the 8 and 9 September.

For those students who were completing their studies with us in August, we would like to reassure you that you will still have the opportunity to graduate alongside your friends and peers.

You will receive an invite during September/October to join our next virtual celebration events which are taking place later in the year.

As a result, it became clear that it would be challenging for all our final year students to have met their Programme Learning Outcomes, have their work marked, moderated and hold the Exam Boards before the July graduation ceremonies date, w/c 20 July.

Of course, there is the added uncertainty as to whether it is even going to be safe or appropriate to hold a large public gathering at that time.

It is important to note that there is a difference between graduating (that is being awarded your degree) and the graduation ceremony (the celebration event).

You will still graduate when the Board of Examiners awards your degree, satisfied that you have met the Programme Learning Outcomes, and we expect the majority of students to graduate over the summer period. We will be able to issue degree certificates.

We know that your graduation ceremony is an important celebration of your achievements, marking the pinnacle of your degree and it is a highlight in our calendar too. Therefore, we are rescheduling it.

Travel

What are the travel restrictions for staff and students?

As of 26 March, Government have advised that students remaining at university in England should now stay where they are and not attempt to travel. This includes student is living in halls, or private rented accommodation, and they should remain there while current restrictions are in force.

All overseas University travel is suspended until further notice for both colleagues and students. This situation will be kept under review as it may become necessary to extend the suspension. This suspension includes any overseas travel for conferences, field trips, placements, study abroad programs or any other related activities.

Staff and student personal travel

For the latest Government travel guidance, please visit gov.uk/coronavirus.

I’m returning to the UK from overseas, what should I do?

Please refer to Government guidance, in particular, the ‘How to return’ section.

If you are returning to the UK (either on University business or personal travel), from any country please do NOT return to the campus, even if you have no symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), until it has been 7 days since you returned to the UK.

Additional advice for colleagues

All staff who can work from home should be doing so now and should not be returning to campus unless it is essential. If you feel that this poses exceptional challenges for you, please speak to your line manager, Dean or Director.

Additional advice for students

Students should not be returning to campus. If you feel this poses an exceptional challenge for you, please contact Student Services, call 01482 462222, or visit myHull Portal to raise an enquiry or speak directly to one of our advisors through live chat (Monday to Friday 9 am - 5 pm).

Immigration advice

New Students

If you have been issued with a Tier 4 General visa but unable to travel in time for the start of your programme:

You need to arrive in the UK within the period of your entry clearance vignette (sticker in your passport) validity.*

You can enrol and start your studies remotely while waiting to arrive here. Please send a copy of your entry clearance vignette (sticker in your passport) or your UKVI decision letter to us as soon as you can. You can do so by logging in to the MyHull portal and sending the document to the International Engagement and Compliance Team (IECT).

When you receive your enrolment email, please log into the MyHull portal and complete your online enrolment as soon as possible. If you are not going to be able to enrol before the latest start date, please contact the International Engagement and Compliance Team (IECT).

If you are unable to do so, please contact the International Engagement and Compliance Team (IECT) as soon as possible.

If you submitted your Tier 4 General visa application but unlikely to receive your visa in time for the start of your programme:

You can enrol and start your studies remotely while waiting for your visa and travel here. Please send a copy of your visa application or document checklist to us as soon as you can. You can do so by logging in to the MyHull portal and sending the document to the International Engagement and Compliance Team (IECT).

If you are unable to apply for your Tier 4 General visa in time for the start of your programme:

Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to enrol and start your studies remotely while waiting to make your visa application. Please let us know the reasons for the delay as soon as possible by logging in to the MyHull portal and sending the message to the International Engagement and Compliance Team (IECT).

Current Students

Tier 4 students have already been asked by the International Engagement and Compliance Team to notify the University of their travel plans by completing this form. If any Tier 4 students have not completed the form, please do so as soon as possible.

The University will not curtail sponsorship for Tier 4 students who have left the UK, or have remained in Hull and are self-isolating due to the COVD-19 situation. In this situation, the University does not need to notify the UKVI of a student changing their study location. The UKVI will not consider it a breach of sponsor duties to offer distance learning to existing Tier 4 students in the UK or those who have returned overseas but wish to continue their current studies.

On campus Visa support

If students have any questions relating to visa restrictions or general immigration advice, the International Engagement and Compliance Team can be contacted in the following ways:

Phone: +44 (0) 1482 462222
MyHull Portal: please log my.hull.ac.uk > talk to us > ask a question

If you are not familiar with the MyHull portal, we have created a helpful video.

This outlines all you need to know about how to raise an enquiry.

Email: IECT@hull.ac.uk if you do not have a six digit user ID and/or experience problems with accessing MyHull portal.

Arriving in the UK

Keeping us informed

The University would like to help make your arrival in the UK as smooth as possible, and would like to be prepared for your arrival. Please complete the following form, to let us know when you intend to travel to the UK.

Contact details and self-isolation

Whether or not you choose University’s accommodation, it is advisable to you arrange at least few weeks of accommodation prior to your arrival in the UK as you may need to self-isolate when you arrive and will need to provide UK Border Control with your contact details https://www.gov.uk/provide-journey-contact-details-before-travel-uk.

Useful Links

Are all programmes expected to deliver on campus teaching from September?

We are reactivating as much teaching and learning, research, services and facilities as we can safely on campus. This will comprise online synchronous (those sessions where students are engaged in learning at the same time) and asynchronous (not real time) learning activities, face-to-face activity on campus, practical teaching sessions in our specialist facilities and a supportive and engaging learning environment, complemented by online delivery for our lectures. Further information is available in the Tuition and Timetabling Protocol on Sharepoint.

Will all colleagues be returning to campus ready for September?

For some groups of colleagues who are not teaching, using specialist research facilities or providing services which can only be delivered face-to-face, and where they can continue to work effectively remotely, we envisage you will continue to work at home for the foreseeable future. This will enable us to better control the number of people on campus, and we will continue to look for ways to improve your homeworking experience.

How is the University supporting colleagues who are unable to return to campus (for example they are shielding)?

As we work reactivate as much teaching and learning, research, services and facilities on campus as possible, we are continuously mindful of the need to provide a healthy and safe environment for all our staff at all times. We are working with managers to understand individual circumstances where staff continue to need to be at home either for personal health reasons or because of responsibilities for others.

I am worried about the impact on my workload, my team and our students if I am absent from work due to illness or self-isolation?

Many people may find this a difficult situation causing them to feel anxious about the impact of absence from work due to illness or self-isolation and disruption to planned activity.

Please be assured that our main priority is protecting the health and welfare of our students and staff and will mitigate the impact as far is possible and practical in this difficult situation.

If any colleague feels uncomfortable or anxious for any reason, please speak to your line manager in the first instance.

What do I do if I have IT problems at home?

You can find more information and submit a support request online.

Key updates

Updated information for postgraduate research students can be found here.

International travel, fieldwork and archival work

The University of Hull has suspended all international travel for all its staff and students. If you are a Postgraduate Research Student who is currently overseas, you will have been contacted directly to discuss your return to the UK. Should this not be the case, please contact your supervisors and Faculty/Institute PGR support immediately.

Post-Graduate Research Students based overseas

If you are based overseas please follow the advice of authorities given nationally, regionally and locally. If you are affiliated with a local university, please follow their advice. If you have any concerns or questions, please contact your Hull Faculty/Institute PGR support or the Doctoral College at Hull.

UK travel, fieldwork and archival work

There will be no (PGR) research related travel until 7 June 2020 in the first instance unless it has been risk-assessed, is deemed research critical and has been formally signed off by the Associate Dean for Research or Institute Director. The risk assessment form can be found here.

Industry placements

All (industry) placements will be re-assessed for risks by PGR supervisors who will discuss the new risk assessment with the Departmental Director of Postgraduate Studies, Graduate Research Director or Institute Director. Post-Graduate Researchers on placements must follow the advice given locally.

Facilities on campus and affiliated sites

Access to Hull Campus facilities, services and buildings has been significantly reduced or suspended. The duration of the reduced services or suspension will be reviewed periodically, and the University community will be informed about any changes.

Facility managers will inform users about any actions you may need to take and timescales pertaining to safely shutting down activities and experiments.

Any delays to PGRs’ experiments or projects caused by the reduced service provision or suspension will be taken account in the form of extensions and intercalations.

Supervision arrangements

All supervisory meetings are held remotely using video conferencing, telephony, or team applications. If none of these are available, you may use email. All formal supervisory meetings are to be documented in the usual fashion. Information on using ICT services at home is available here. When you speak to your lead supervisor about the action plan, you should also make arrangements for remote supervision.

Impact on progress

Restrictions on travel, lab work, access to campus facilities and possibly (industry) placements may have an impact on the progress of your research. This will be taken into account in progress monitoring.

Formal progress review meetings are to go ahead via video conferencing or a conference call on the telephone. The outcomes are documented in the normal way.

Please bear in mind that there are many other activities beneficial to your progress you can undertake such as literature reviews, keeping up to date with new literature, or drafting and editing of chapters. Please ensure that you have access to library resources and data storage remotely so that you can work off campus. Your individual action plan at the bottom of the document will record what you will do while access to services and facilities on campus is reduced.

Please see link for information on using ICT services at home.

Any applications for extensions will be handled by your supervisors and the Doctoral College after the end of disruptions. In cases where disruption halts progress on your research entirely you will need to apply for an intercalation immediately using the normal process. Intercalation may have an impact on funding and maintenance grants. It is therefore advisable to seek guidance from sponsors and funders before applying for an intercalation.

If you have any questions or concerns please raise them with your supervisors or Departmental Director of Postgraduate Studies/Institute Director /Graduate Research Director, the Associate Dean for Research or the Doctoral College.

Visa compliance

Although access to campus is restricted, international PGR on Tier 4 visa are advised to stay in touch with their supervisors electronically. Should international PGR on Tier 4 visa, who are overseas, become unable to travel to the UK, they should contact the Visa Compliance team as soon as possible so that their record can be updated: vct@hull.ac.uk.

PGTS modules

There may be some disruption to credited PGTS modules. The team at the Doctoral College are currently working on detailed contingency plans to facilitate more online learning & teaching. Please contact Dr Janine Hatter in the Doctoral College if you have any questions: J.Hatter@hull.ac.uk.

Submission of theses

If your thesis is already printed for submission and examination, please submit it to the Doctoral College at your earliest convenience. Submission will take place by appointment. Please email doctoralcollege@hull.ac.uk to make an appointment. If your thesis is not yet printed, please submit your thesis in electronic format. The Doctoral College team will give you advice on process.

Viva-voce exams

We will use video conferencing to conduct future viva-voce exams where technically feasible. Candidates joining their viva-voce exam via video conferencing need to be in the presence of an independent observer appointed by the University of Hull. This observer would normally be an employee of a local University who has no private, business or supervisory relationship with the candidate. Alternatively, a person of good standing in the community such as a teacher, local councillor or cleric may act as the independent observer. Independent observers are nominated jointly by the candidate and the supervisors using the examiner nomination form and process. On the form the nominee is marked as ‘external observer’. The University will pay independent observers a small fee.

Arrangements in Faculties and Institutes

Further detailed and discipline-specific advice is available in your Faculty or Institute. Arrangements may vary slightly from the guidance given above to address specific circumstances. If you have any questions or concerns please raise them with your Departmental Director of Postgraduate Studies/ Graduate Research Director/Institute Director, the Associate Dean for Research or the Doctoral College.

2020-21 Academic year

Can I apply for 2020?

Yes, clearing is open now and ends early October. Find out more here.

Feel free to contact us on admissions@hull.ac.uk or on 01482 466100 with any questions or to see what we can offer you.

I have accepted my offer from Hull; what if my Centre Assessed Grades are lower than the Algorithm Applied Grades? Will my original offer still apply?

The Government has confirmed that if a student’s Algorithm Applied Grades are higher; these will be your final results rather than the Centre Assessed Grades.

Whether the Centre Assessed Grades or Algorithm Applied Grades are used for your final grades for A-level or BTec qualifications, if you have received an offer from Hull it will still apply.

We are looking forward to welcoming you in September.

I have accepted an offer from Hull but currently, with my Algorithm Applied Grades I am not eligible for a scholarship. If my Centre Assessed Grades are higher and appear to make me eligible for a scholarship, will I then receive one after I enrol?

We will award our scholarships automatically based on the higher set of results received from UCAS.

The timing for receiving the final set of grades based on your Centre Assessed Grades will be confirmed with applicants, parents and universities shortly by UCAS.

Do I need to wait until UCAS release the Centre Assessed Grades before I get in touch?

No. If your School or College can provide confirmation of your Centre Assessed Grades (CAGs), we can look to make you an offer now (subject to meeting the requirements of the course and/or if places remain available).

I didn’t meet the entry requirements for my course based on the Algorithm Applied Grades, if my Centre Assessed Grades are higher, will I now be able to secure a place at Hull in September?

We have been working to contact those students who were unable to secure a place with us based on the original grades we received last week to see if we can now confirm and make offers against CAGs. If you haven’t heard from us, please get in touch on 01482 466100.

I have received my Centre Assessed Grades but I still don’t feel they reflect my work, can I appeal?

UCAS have confirmed there will still be an appeals process for centre assessed grades. Further information will be shared via UCAS shortly.

Will my course begin in September 2020?

Yes. We are looking forward to welcoming all new and returning students onto campus in September.

Are all students expected to be on campus in September?

We are looking forward to welcoming all new and returning students onto campus in September. It is the expectation that students should be available, in Hull, to be able to start or recommence their studies from the appropriate date when induction and teaching starts. We do appreciate that this may not be possible for some students, for example, those who are shielding, and we are here to support you in undertaking your studies and enjoying a wider student experience whatever your circumstances. If you have any concerns, you can reach us on 01482 466100, Monday to Friday, or send us a message on our messenger chat.

How will my course be delivered?

You can find out more information about your specific course and details of any changes here. If you decide to join us, we will send you your timetable on 7 September. This will include more specific information on each of your classes and how they will be taught.

In general, teaching over the 2020/21 academic year will be delivered through a blend of online and face-to-face learning, where you will join a supportive and inspirational learning community of leading academics and fellow students.

You will have both timetabled activity with your class, and directed learning in your own time, on a weekly basis through Canvas, our virtual learning environment (VLE).

Blended learning offers you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, to review material when you want to and to personalise your learning to some extent.

Can I defer my application to September 2021?

Yes. You will need to submit a written request to admissions@hull.ac.uk . The entry requirements applicable on your offer will still apply to any deferral request.

There is no deadline for deferrals, so if you are unsure about deferring your place due to the current COVID-19 situation, please keep an eye out for further information and updates from us, and get in touch to talk about any questions you may have. If you would still like to defer you can do this at any time by contacting us before the start of your chosen programme.

What does this mean for accommodation and campus facilities?

For those students choosing to live with us next year, we are pleased to say that our on-campus accommodation will be ready for your arrival from the 12 September. We will make sure that it fully complies with health and safety best practice and the latest physical distancing guidelines.

We know, too, that the social aspects of university life are really important – sports, societies, and meeting up with friends. We have been working closely with Hull University Students’ Union to rethink and reimagine how we can facilitate a strong wider student experience in the presence of COVID-19 measures, and are working with our students on how we can achieve this.

The Brynmor Jones Library will be open and accessible. It is a superb learning space with collaborative study spaces, open-access PCs, over a million books, and panoramic views of the city from the seventh floor observatory.

You will also have access to your department's specialist learning facilities, such as labs and studios.

Our sports centre will be open from 14 September, and you will be able to take part in some on-campus sport and activities. You will also be able to join a wide range of sports clubs, societies and activities through Hull University Students’ Union.

Some indoor spaces will be open, including our canteen in Canham Turner, coffee bars, Sanctuary (bar, snacks and pub food), Eats (pizzeria, deli and snack bar) and Spar mini-supermarket in the Student Central building, plus even more outdoor social spaces and eateries.

I’ve got an Unconditional offer, is it still valid?

Yes, your offer is still valid.

Can I apply for 2021 entry?

Yes, you can now register with UCAS and start researching and compiling your application for 2021. From 8 September, you will be able to submit your UCAS application to your chosen higher education institutions.

Can I speak to a student about life at Hull?

There's nobody better placed to tell you about what life is like in Hull than one of our students. Our friendly team of ambassadors are here to answer your questions about what it's like to study and live here. You can contact them here.

I have an offer for a healthcare programme which also requires a DBS check and an occupational health check. How will these be carried out this year, as they are a condition for entry to the programme?

We carry out the DBS check online with ID verification through attending your local Post Office that offers this service. For your occupational health check, you will be emailed a health questionnaire to complete and return. Once this is completed, applicants will be invited to make a telephone appointment with our Occupational Health staff in place of a face-to-face assessment.

I am holding an offer to enter a degree programme through the Foundation Year programme. If my confirmed grades are better than I was originally predicted, could I join the degree programme directly without having to do the Foundation Year?

When the University receives confirmed grades from examination boards, we will always check to see if a Foundation Year applicant could also be eligible for entering directly onto the degree programme. Where this is the case, we will write to give the applicant this choice on results day, 13 August.

I have an offer for a programme which includes a year abroad. How likely is it the year abroad will be available to me?

Your health, safety and well-being is our priority and we will always make decisions based on this and in line with the current government guidelines. Please rest assured we are exploring every option possible for our Study Abroad students.

UK applicants

What does this mean for my application?

We would like to reassure you that there is no change to your application or offer to study with us. If you have any enquiries please do not hesitate to contact us on admissions@hull.ac.uk.

When will I get a chance to visit?

We know you'll have a lot of questions, and that nothing beats the moment you step on to our campus for the first time and see us in person. You can visit us daily between 13 - 28 August.

Secure your place now.

Can I still apply for Student Finance?

New and existing full-time undergraduate students can continue to apply online for student finance. We’d advise applying early to ensure your student finance is ready at the start of term.

The Student Loans Company is updating their guidance for both prospective and current students regularly. Postgraduate and part-time undergraduate student finance applications for academic year 2020 to 2021 have also opened.

International applicants

Are you still considering new applications?

Yes, we are still accepting and processing new applications from all countries.

Can conditional offers be issued without sight of official transcripts/certificates?

Yes, we can make conditional offers without sight of official transcripts or certificates. Copies of the originals will need to be received by Admissions before we can make your offer unconditional. Applicants will be expected to provide the originals prior to enrolment, as per our normal process.

I’ve received my unconditional offer but am worried about getting my visa in time. What should I do?

We have dedicated immigration staff who would be very happy to assist, they can be contacted on immigration@hull.ac.uk.

My exams may be delayed. What should I do?

We understand the issues in relation to test delays and are doing everything we can in order to assist those affected. In relation to IELTS and TOEFL tests, please see their websites for updates. These providers do have free practice tests available for all of those who wish to continue practising at home.

I have already taken my English Language test for my Tier 4 visa but I have not received the results, what should I do?

If you have taken an IELTs but have not yet received the results, please do not worry, we are still able to verify your scores with your TRF number.

I am required to take an English Language Test for admission to my degree programme. What if I can’t take the test?

We are aware that many English test centres are not able to offer testing at this time. We recommend that you view their websites for up-to-date information.

In relation to IELTS and TOEFL test, the University of Hull have added the IELTS Indicator and TOEFL online tests to its list of acceptable English language qualifications for 2020/21 entry. We are also able to accept other English Language qualifications for entry onto our degree courses, further details can be found here.

Alternatively, The University is delivering is Pre-Sessional English Language Programme online this year. Find out more here.

My offer letter start date for 2020 entry is 21 September but other communications state 14 September, which is the correct start date?

Due to the current situation, our start date will now be 14 September to allow more time for you to take part in welcome activities, to help you get the best possible start to your time here at Hull.

I need more time to decide whether I want to take up my place at Hull in September 2020. Is there a deadline for accepting my offer?

We are making efforts to be as flexible as possible for students who are applying to the University. We are not imposing any deadlines for students to accept offers, although students should take into consideration the time required to apply for and be issued a visa to study in the UK. For guidance on Undergraduate courses, please refer to the UCAS website.

I am due to start my studies in September, will you be delaying the start of term? What’s the latest date I can start my course?

We are planning to start the next academic year on 28 September 2020. Our normal latest start date policy remains unchanged. This is 26 days after the start date of your programme. If you are not going to able to arrive in time for your programme start in September, please email tier4_applicants@hull.ac.uk

Is there a Hull Online English test?

A Hull online English Language test is available to students who wish to start their studies in 2020/21 but have been unable to take an IELTS test. This test will allow applicants to receive an offer for a degree programme if they meet our minimum English Language requirements and only after attending an online interview via Skype or Zoom. For further information, applicants are asked to request access to the online test during their application process. Alternatively, the University has now approved the IELTS Indicator and TOEFL Home online language tests for 2020/21. Please see the University website for more information.

Will scholarships be carried over to next year if students cannot attend in September?

The University offers a number of financial awards to international students each year. Students should check the University website to find out what scholarships and fee discounts are available in the year they wish to enrol at the University. No scholarships will be awarded where an applicant indicates that he/she wishes to defer entry beyond the 2020/21 academic year.

Will students receive a refund on their deposit if they were unable to come in September due to COVID-19?

Postgraduate applicants who have paid a £2,000 deposit towards their tuition fees already and need to withdraw their application for COVID-19 reasons will have their deposit returned in full.

Will I need an ATAS certificate if my course is being delivered online?

A valid ATAS certificate remains a requirement for UK Tier 4 Visa application purposes in line with UKVI requirements for those students intending to study in the UK. If you are required to start your course remotely, and will not be entering the UK to do so, then you should not submit an ATAS application until it is required.

I am unable to obtain an academic reference from my University - will you still consider my application without one?

Normally, we ask all our applicants to provide an academic reference in support of their application to study with the University. If undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate taught (PGT) applicants are struggling to do so at this time due to COVID-19 related reasons, they should include evidence of this in their personal statement and the University will be happy to waive this. Please note that this does not apply to UG students who have applied through UCAS or Postgraduate Research (PGR) applicants.

I am unable to obtain a transcript to demonstrate prior academic achievement - will you still consider my application without one?

If you are a Postgraduate Masters student, we will accept an academic reference instead of your transcript, as long as it includes details of your academic achievement (result). Please note that the University reserves the right to contact your referee directly should any further verification be required. For all other students, a transcript must be provided with your application before it's submitted. For applicants applying from overseas, this also remains a requirement to be eligible to apply for a Tier 4 visa.

If you've completed your studies: You need to provide copies of your degree certificates and formal transcripts of your academic record. This should include full details of the degrees, classifications, grades you've obtained and the modules/units you have taken.

If you have taken a qualification in a non-English-speaking country you must provide the documents in their original language, accompanied by a formally certified translation into English.

If you've not yet finished your studies: If you're still registered for your current course, or your undergraduate or postgraduate results are still pending, a draft transcript may be provided if available. Any offer to study will be conditional and subject to submitting a final transcript to demonstrate appropriate academic level of prior study has been achieved.

Will I have to quarantine on arrival?

The Government guidance regarding quarantine is available here.

The University is currently reviewing how this will be managed for those students in University accommodation.

If I take an online English language test, will I have to sit another test when I am in the UK?

Current University policy is that you will not be required to take an additional language test. If this poicy changes and we ask you to take a test it will only be to help identify what additional language support you may need during your studies

How long will the English language test be valid for if I take an online test?

If you take the online English test that which are approved for entry by the University of Hull i.e IELTS Indicator or TOEFL home, then they will be valid for two years from the date the test is taken.

Can I study a Pre-Sessional English language programme at the University?

This year the University is offering is English Language Pre-sessional Summer Programme online.This a full-time English language course designed specifically for students who do not currently meet the English language requirements for their University of Hull degree. We are offering a 10, 8 or 4 week programme, depending on your current level of English. Full details of the programme, including entry requirements, course dates, structure and fees, can be found here.

Will I be eligible to apply for a Post Study Work Visa is I start my course online?

The UK government has confirmed that students studying by distance/blended learning will be eligible to apply for the Graduate route provided they are in the UK by 6 April 2021. The decision is part of the temporary measures taken by the UK government in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

We are here for you

During this unprecedented time, the University of Hull is here to help you.

The health and wellbeing of our University community is our number one priority. Where possible, our business support teams continue to work from home, and can be reached as usual via telephone, email, video call and other digital platforms. Our staff have been working hard to prepare contingency plans and manage precautions as the situation evolves. We're closely following the latest advice and guidance issued by the UK government and Public Health England. We will continue to take all appropriate and necessary steps, as required by the official advice, to keep our community safe.

The University has undertaken comprehensive COVID-19 risk assessments across our campus to protect the health and safety of staff and partners. Many of our buildings, labs and facilities have been certified as COVID-secure and have now reopened and are available for use by researchers and businesses. These include our facilities and meeting spaces at the Aura Innovation Centre on Bridgehead Business Park in Hessle.

We offer a range of opportunities and networks for you to take advantage of, whether you are looking to invest in innovation and staff development or simply need help with sustaining your business during this period of uncertainty. Working closely with our business partners, we are ensuring we continue to progress new research and enterprise projects.

We’re already making a difference and playing a vital role in the fight against COVID-19, and we will continue to support new and existing partners in whatever way we can. See more information on our contribution to the COVID-19 crisis below.

We’ve put together a useful list of FAQs below. If you have further questions, you can contact us by emailing business@hull.ac.uk and we will do our best to assist you. We’re here to help you, and will respond to your requirements.

Can my business continue to engage with the University on consultancy projects and contract research?

Yes. While many of our academics and professional services staff are working remotely at the moment, they are still on hand to discuss new and ongoing projects. Those involved in active projects should speak to their existing point of contact, while those with new enquiries should email business@hull.ac.uk.

I am currently collaborating with the University on a project. How will I be affected?

A representative from the University will have been in touch to discuss your individual circumstances but our aim is to continue as planned where possible. Some funders have given us extensions, allowing the project timetable to extend but not the overall budget, which may cause some challenges if activities cannot be reprioritised. For any additional queries, please email collaborate@hull.ac.uk

My business may be able to provide a solution to the impact of COVID-19 and would benefit from academic advice and funding. Would this be possible?

Yes. Staff across the University welcome opportunities to discuss product development, innovation, and business solutions, including those relating to the Coronavirus outbreak. We would value your insights and can facilitate discussions with the relevant academics.

We are also in regular conversation with numerous funding bodies, including Innovate UK, and will be able to advise as to whether your solution is eligible to receive funding. For more information, please email rifo@hull.ac.uk.

I am interested in the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) scheme. Is it still available?

Yes. Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) submission dates are still available throughout the year and Innovate UK is committed to supporting the programme. For more information, please email business@hull.ac.uk.

I am a University of Hull student or graduate seeking to start a business. Will the Enterprise Service be able to support me at this time?

Our Enterprise team remains on hand to discuss self-employment opportunities and start-up support for students and graduates. Please email enterprise@hull.ac.uk to discuss your proposed business venture and they will be happy to advise you on next steps.

Is the Careers team available to discuss recruitment opportunities?

Yes. While many of our staff continue to work remotely, we have adapted the way we work to ensure we can continue to support you and react to your business needs. If you'd like to speak to a member of the Careers team, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by emailing careershull@hull.ac.uk.

Will there be any placement opportunities for your students?

The University is actively encouraging businesses to continue offering placement opportunities for our students. We will work within a business’s own health and safety policies as well as our own, ensuring the safest possible experience for both business and student. We are also working with employers to offer virtual placements. If you’d like to find out more, please contact careershull@hull.ac.uk.

How the University of Hull is contributing to the fight against coronavirus

The University has been able to adapt quickly to make valuable and long-lasting contributions to help during this COVID crisis. Here’s just a snapshot of our contribution to the fight against COVID-19.

We have come together with our local health partners in order to make services work where national provision has failed. For example, we led a collaboration to produce face shields to support the NHS and other healthcare organisations, raising more than £100,000.
University of Hull experts tested a batch of COVID-19 face masks, to ensure they met the standard required before they were distributed to frontline NHS staff in the Humber region.
Staff from across all disciplines within health sciences were able to provide vital training for former NHS staff who re-joined the workforce to help fight the pandemic.
We have made several donations of clinical equipment to our local health trusts, and have offered around 200 rooms for use by NHS staff requiring residential accommodation.
The University has donated food supplies to help homeless adults and young people in need in our region.
Clinical academics have been released from academic duties to full time clinical practice to support front-line services.
As the UK continues to react to the Coronavirus pandemic, national newspapers and broadcasters alike have turned to the expertise of a University of Hull critical care expert. Nicki Credland, Head of Paramedical, Perioperative and Advanced Practice at the University, has provided invaluable insight into how NHS frontline services are coping with Coronavirus, and also was appointed Education Lead for the Nightingale Harrogate Hospital.
Prof Joe Cook (project lead) and Dr Fiona Walkley (CI) were successful in an application for funding to the UKRI Covid19 Rapid response which looks at how best to mobilise volunteers.
Prof Thomas Phillips (Mental Health) has supported NHS England & improvement in the development of their national guidance for alcohol dependence
Professor Alyn Morice has provided a rapid response to the pandemic – by initiating two international clinical trials for COVID-19.
Professor Fliss Murtagh has contributed to NICE guidelines on symptomatic management of Covid-19 patients
A multi-million-pound high-performance computer owned by the University of Hull is playing a crucial role in global COVID-19 research.
The University Business School has been running a series of virtual events to help advise local businesses during these unprecedented times.

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