Coronavirus - information for applicants and offer holders

What’s the UK government guidance on coronavirus?

Please visit the UK government coronavirus (COVID-19) website for more information. Whilst there are no UK government COVID-19 restrictions, your personal safety is our top priority. We are continuing to work hard to ensure that our campus is a safe and welcoming environment, and it’s important that staff and students do all they can to keep each other safe.

If I am an international student, will I be able to get the COVID-19 vaccine in the UK? 

International students who live in the UK and are registered with a GP (general practitioner) will be able to access the COVID-19 vaccination in the UK, just as they are able to access healthcare. 
Visit the UK government's COVID-19 vaccination FAQs for students in Higher Education Institutions webpage for more information.

How will teaching on my course be delivered? 

We want you to have the best possible learning experience at Leeds, where you can actively engage with the people around you. This means that, for all courses taught on campus, you’ll need to be in Leeds for your lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical sessions, as we won’t be offering online versions of the courses we normally teach face to face. Face-to-face learning will be complemented and supported by a variety of digital technologies.

How can I visit campus?

Visiting campus is a great way to learn more about University life. Find out more about opportunities to visit, including Open Days and campus tours.

My university cannot provide me with an official certificate or transcript to meet the academic conditions of my offer due to COVID-19, what should I do?

We will be as flexible as possible and documentation will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. We recommend you submit the most recent transcript and/or confirmation of award you have been provided by your current institution for the admissions team to review. They will contact you if any further information or documentation is required.

I am not able to take an English language test due to COVID-19 restrictions in my country. What should I do?

We have expanded the number of English language tests we accept in light of the challenges faced by our applicants as a result of COVID-19. Please see our entry requirements for the list of accepted qualifications.

I have received an unconditional taught postgraduate offer from the University and a request to pay a deposit to receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). Do I have to pay it now?  

Your tuition fee deposit confirms your commitment to the University of Leeds and we will not be able to issue a CAS for your visa application until we have received your payment (or evidence that you are fully funded by a University-recognised sponsor). However, we understand that you may wish to wait before making your final decision about your study plans, so please be assured that there is currently no deadline to pay, unless you will be studying a Leeds University Business School course or taking a summer pre-sessional English course at our Language Centre. For more information, please see the tuition fee deposits guidance page and either the Business School website or the Language Centre website.

When will I receive my Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)? 

You will be contacted by email once your CAS is ready, or if any further information is needed, so you do not need to take any action to request a CAS. The earliest that your CAS can be issued is six months before your course begins. 

In order to be eligible for a CAS, you must have accepted an unconditional (firm) offer, supplied all necessary information, such as valid passport details, and, for taught postgraduate students only, either paid a £1,500 tuition fee deposit or provided evidence that you are fully funded by a University-recognised sponsor. You do not need to send proof that you have paid your deposit to be issued a CAS. 

What facilities will be open on campus when I arrive? 

It’s important to us that you have every opportunity to engage with the student life at Leeds, so you get the most out of your time with us. Our campus facilities such as libraries, sports facilities, the students’ union, cafés and other social spaces will all be open for you to enjoy when you arrive in Leeds. 

I’m an international student. Where can I find more information about arriving on campus? 

You can access experienced help and support before and after you arrive in Leeds. Our friendly staff can help you with anything, from fees and funding to visas and helping you plan your arrival in the UK. Once you’re here, you’ll also be invited to lots of international welcome activities and events to help you settle in. They’re a great way to introduce you to life at Leeds and help you make new friends. Please visit our Prepare for Leeds website ​​​​​for more information.

You can also talk to some of our current international students about life in Leeds on the Link to Leeds site. 

Do I need to have a COVID-19 vaccine before I arrive?

The University doesn’t require students to have been vaccinated against COVID-19. However, specific courses may have their own requirements, which will be detailed in your offer letter. You can find information about required health documents in our preparation guidance. Please also continue to check travel guidance in your country and UK government requirements.

I am not sure if I can arrive in time for the start of term. Is it possible for me to arrive later?

Please contact the student support team in your academic school if you will not be able to arrive in time for your course.