Frequently asked questions

We have put the below guidance together to answer any questions you may have about the start of term. We will be adding to these topics as more decisions are made throughout the summer.

You can contact us directly for any questions left unanswered.

My application Start of term Accommodation Facilities Health and wellbeing Fees and finance Teaching and learning International Parents General queries Face coverings

If you are an applicant, the below information will help understand any changes which may affect the application process.

What if I don’t get the grades I need?
Don’t worry, we will do everything we can to find a suitable course for you here at Herts. We assess each application case by case. We may also be able to offer you a Foundation or Initial Year course at one of our partner colleges that will allow you to progress on to the degree course that you have applied for, upon successful completion. If you are feeling a bit worried, sign up for information about Clearing so that you can be prepared just in case.
I was resitting English/Maths GCSE and couldn’t finish the year – what should I do?
Like other qualifications this year, GCSEs will also be awarded with a calculated grade by teachers.
I am sitting my exam as a private candidate; how can I get a calculated grade?
Ofqual has released some information for candidates in your position. You should contact your assessment centre to assess your options, but you may not receive a grade this summer and will have to sit an examination as soon as it becomes possible to do so. We are agreeing how we fairly review applicants in a similar situation and will update this page when we have further information.
When do I need to make my university decisions by?
UCAS have extended this deadline to 18 June to give applicants the time they need to make their decision about their preferred university.
What if I don't want to join this year, can I defer my place?
Some applicants consider taking a year out before starting their studies (deferring). You must have accepted your offer and met all offer conditions in order to request this. We'll give your request all due consideration but can't promise that we'll be able to agree.
How do you defer?
If you do choose to defer your place, please contact the Admissions team to request the deferral by emailing ask@herts.ac.uk.
Date in October by which time you must defer – can you try before you buy?
Once you are a registered student you would need to make any request directly to your School of study, who will advise on your options.
How to self-release through UCAS?
From 6 July, if you are holding an unconditional firm place, you can release yourself into Clearing by using the ‘decline your place’ button in Track. We do encourage you to take some time to think carefully about changing any decisions as some courses may be full and your decision may not be able to be reversed.
How do I change my response to my offer (e.g. changing insurance to firm)?
As we are on the UCAS ‘pre-approved list’, this means you no longer need to contact us first to ask for this change to be made. You only need to call UCAS, and the other institution involved (if the other institution is not on the pre-approved list, which UCAS will be able to advise). If both institutions have opted-in to be on the pre-approved list, then you will only need to call UCAS, and the change can be made there and then.
I’m confused about which campus I will be attending.
You’ll be based on de Havilland campus if you’re studying subjects like Law, Business, English, Media, Criminology, Sport, Education and Teaching. You’ll be based on College Lane campus if you’re studying subjects like Art, Music, Health and Social Care, Psychology, Computer Science, Engineering, Maths and Astrophysics. You will receive full information in your joining instructions of where and when to go during your first week at uni.

In this section you will find important information regarding the start of term.

What are the exact dates for start of term?
We have two main start dates for our academic year. One for students joining us from within the UK and one for international students. These are:
- UK students and returning International students - 21 September 2020
- New International students - 26 October 2020
Some courses may have an earlier start. We’ll add details once dates are confirmed and you’ll be sent the specific information for your course as part of your joining instructions.
We know that some students may be unable to resume their studies straight away due to health, travel problems and possible quarantine restrictions. We want to give everyone the chance to join us this year so, if you have any extenuating circumstances, we will be offering you the opportunity to re-enrol by Monday 26th October.
If you are unable to join us in September, don’t worry. You will be offered additional support so you can catch up with your studies and you will be sent information in advance so you can prepare as much as possible. You will also have access to our virtual events, online groups to meet other students, as well as wellbeing support if you have any concerns.
Some changes have also been made to the length of our Christmas Vacation and Semester B teaching weeks. View the academic calendar for 2020/21 to see our updated term dates.
If you have any questions, please talk to your Programme Leader.
What should I bring for registration?
Registration usually takes place face to face, on campus at the start of term. This year, we are planning to run an on-line registration. We’re still working on the details, but we will let you know how to prepare and what you need to do as soon as we can.
Who will be on campus when September arrives?
Our campus is still open and we currently have students living in the halls of residence. Come September, many key members of staff will be on campus keeping our students safe and well and we will be welcoming new students to our halls.
When will I receive my timetable?
Timetables for returning students will be published on 7 September.
New students will be able to access their timetables once they have completed their registration
If you are starting your course earlier in the Schools of Health and Social Work, Education or Law, you will be able to view your timetable from 31 August.
Will there be a Freshers’ Fair?
We are hoping to hold a Freshers’ Fair for our new and returning students, we know this is something that all our students look forward to at the start of term. How this will run is very much depend on social distancing rules and Government advice at the time. We are currently looking at all our options and will update this FAQ as soon as we can.
What about the Freshers’ Prom Herts announced earlier in the year?
We’ll all need a big celebration when things get back to normal, we’re looking forward to the Freshers’ Prom as much as you are! How and when this will take place will very much depend on social distancing rules and Government advice as we move through the year. We’ll let you know as soon as we have some details.

Moving into accommodation is an exciting time and we're here to make the process as smooth as possible.

Can I apply for accommodation without an unconditional offer?
Yes, you can apply with a conditional offer. We will hold your application on file until your offer of a place to study progresses to unconditional.
When will I find out about my accommodation application?
If your offer of a place to study is unconditional, we hope to start sending out accommodation offers in June. If your offer is conditional, we will hold your accommodation application on file until your offer of a place to study progresses to unconditional.
How do accommodation contracts work?
You do not need to make any payment until you are sent an offer of accommodation. Once you receive an offer of accommodation you have 7 days in which to pay the deposit of £150 and set up a payment plan or pay in full. The payment plan allows you to pay termly with the due dates being October, January and April. No payments except the deposit are taken before this date.
When will I move in?
Home students are due to move in the weekend of 19 and 20 September.
How long are the accommodation contracts?
We offer various contract lengths to meet your needs. You can apply for accommodation to live on campus for 42 or 50 weeks. Most students will choose the 42-week option as this will give you plenty of time to complete your studies. If you are an international student, a student on an extended course, or want to stay on campus over the summer then apply for a 50-week contract.
If I accept a room and change my mind can I get my money back?
As long as you notify Residential Allocations at accommodation@herts.ac.uk by 1 September if you no longer need your room, we will refund your deposit and cancel any payment plan you have set up.
Is accommodation guaranteed?
Yes, as long as you meet the criteria for eligibility. The guarantee is explained fully here.
Can I meet/get to know my flatmates before start of term?
Join our Facebook groups to get to know your new uni friends and flatmates before you arrive.
What do I need to bring?
Once you have accepted your offer of accommodation, you will be asked to complete an induction process and as part of that we will give you information on items you might like to bring with you. In the meantime, there is lots of useful information in these two booklets that you can have a look through:
- College Lane - A student guide to living on campus
- de Havilland - A student guide to living on campus
Is the launderette open?
Yes, our launderettes are open, with social distancing in place.
Can parents drop me off at start of term?
We’re working on the details for this at the moment. As soon as we have a process in place, we will be sending information to all students allocated a room in Halls nearer to the start of term.
Will I need to practise social distancing in my accommodation or will there be bubbles?
When you move into on campus accommodation, you will form a household bubble with your housemates. You will not need to practise social distancing with those in your household bubble.
Your bubble will consist of those housemates that you share your kitchen and bathroom with. Students who will be living in a studio flats will also form part of a household bubble and we will provide you with more information soon.

We can't wait for you to explore our campus and take advantage of our excellent facilities. Everything you need to know from our cleaning regimes to parking on campus can be found below.

What about parking on campus?
Residential parking on College Lane Campus is very limited. You can apply here and you must fall into the relevant criteria. Residential parking is £171.60 for the year. There is no residential parking in de Havilland Campus.
Commuting students and visitors can either use the Park and Ride, multi-storey car park or use an e-permit. The Park and Ride (AL10 8HS) is available for all students, staff and visitors to use, it is £1 for the day per vehicle to use the shuttle bus that goes to both College Lane and de Havilland campuses. The multi-story car park next to the Forum is available for use using RingGo. It is free for 30 minutes, £3 up to 5 hours and £5 over 5 hours. E-permits are available for qualifying students and staff, these are £3 for the day.
Find out more information about parking.
Can we sign up to a GP on campus?
There is a Medical Centre on College Lane Campus that is solely for staff and students. You can register there as soon as you know the address of your accommodation in Hatfield.
Is the shop well stocked?
We have a number of shops of campus and these are well stocked to provide students with all the essentials you need.
Who will help me find my way round on day one?
We’re making plans for start of term, but don’t worry, you won’t be left alone. We have an app to help you find your way around campus. Download it now to take a look.
How is the university keeping everything clean?
The University is introducing enhanced cleaning regimes across all University buildings, with additional information about hand washing and hand gels available across campus.
What facilities will be open?
Our aim is to open as many of our facilities as possible. The University will follow up to date government guidance including social distancing and hygiene measures, meaning some of our facilities may operate with a limited capacity and with reduced hours. Clear signage will be in place to guide you.
Will the main campus restaurants be open?
We are working to ensure that there is a catering provision on campus from September which will be in accordance with Government guidelines. Our aim is to offer a range of services such as a coffee provision, grab and go items and enhanced services within our shops as and when the guidance permits.

Your health and wellbeing is our priority. Find out what services are in place to support you during the start of term.

What support is available to me for my mental health and wellbeing?
The Student Wellbeing Centre on College Lane Campus is available for all students to use. They provide support with any emotional, mental health, disability and health related issues. More information can be found here.

Your tuition fees are an important part of start of term registration. Find out everything you need to know below.

When are your first fees due? What are you liable for if you start term?

For Undergraduate Tuition Fees, you need to register at your uni or college before Student Finance can make your first payment. You’ll usually do this in the first week of your course, and you may have to take your student finance entitlement letter with you.

Your Tuition Fee Loan is paid directly to your university or college in three instalments during the academic year.

When are payments made to your uni or college?	How much is paid to your uni or college?
At the start of term one	25% of the tuition fee
At the start of term two	25% of the tuition fee
At the start of term three	50% of the tuition fee

For undergraduate students who are self-funded, and for all postgraduate students, the university offers a variety of ways you can pay your Tuition Fees.

Tuition fee payment and liability dates, and what are you liable for, can be found here.

What are the discounts or additional financial support available for students – undergraduate and postgraduate?
We offer a number of non-repayable undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships. Have a look at our page for further details.
We also have a UH Undergraduate non means tested bursary. You could receive £1000 if you meet the eligibility criteria. More details can be found here.
For postgraduate students, a 20% tuition fee discount is available to those who have previously graduated from the University of Hertfordshire and meet the eligibility criteria. More details can be found here.
Do I need a bank account for my student finance?
Any maintenance loan you receive will need to be paid directly into your bank account, that is in your own name. Therefore, apply for and set one up before you apply for student finance
Typically, to open up a bank account you will need the following:
- One or two forms of photo ID: such as a passport or driver's licence
- Proof of address: such as a recent utility bill or bank statement
- Proof of student status: a letter of acceptance from your university, or UCAS offer letter.
Most banks now allow you to apply online for a student bank account, but you will still have to send off supporting documents or take them into your local branch. Documents must be original copies, not photocopies.

Our goal is to provide you with our unique on-campus community experience which puts your health and wellbeing first. Read the important information below to find out what this means for you.

My course has practicals and/or work placements – what will happen?
Many of our programmes are taught through small-group settings such as seminars, laboratory classes and tutorials. We will continue to teach these in person, while following any national safety guidelines in place at the time, to ensure you have every opportunity to engage with our academics and course mates.
What will teaching look like?
As a campus-based University, our emphasis is on face-to-face teaching and this will continue ensuring we are following national safety guidelines to provide a COVID secure environment. Where required, we will also be using technologies to deliver rich and high-quality teaching through guided-learning and live, interactive sessions to give the best possible student experience.
Does the university have good enough wifi if I need to stream my lectures online at my accommodation?
All rooms in our accommodation have fast wi-fi and network connection sufficient for studies and personal use.
Will Uno campus bus services be running?
The intercampus shuttle bus is currently not running but is due to resume service in September 2020. Students can get on any scheduled bus that goes between campuses for free on presentation of their ID card. The park and ride is also closed until further notice.
Please visit the Uno Bus website for the latest timetables and updates on Uno bus services.

If you are an international student, please visit the international pre-arrival page for all of the latest information.

If your child is coming to campus this autumn, find out more below about the support and steps we are taking to ensure their safety.

What support will be available for my child?
During this current period, our Wellbeing services are available 24/7 by contacting Security on +44 (0)1707 281010. Our team will then arrange a secure connection for a video call to provide assistance and reassurance. Students can also access a one-off same-day appointment by emailing deanofstudents@herts.ac.uk.
How are we following government guidelines for when the new university year starts?
We have been and will continue to comply with government guidance and responding to the changing nature of guidance is our top priority.
As a campus-based University, our emphasis is on face-to-face teaching and this will continue ensuring we are following national safety guidelines to provide a COVID secure environment. Where required, we will also be using technologies to deliver rich and high-quality teaching through guided-learning and live, interactive sessions to give the best possible student experience.
As well as the changes to our approach to teaching, we have significantly enhanced our cleaning regimes. This includes the daily cleaning of door handles and additional hand sanitisers and public health information posters have been installed in key areas across the University. All communal PC and phones have also been disinfected.
Every step we are taking is about keeping everyone at Herts safe while offering students the best possible experience.
I've been furloughed and my financial circumstances have changed – what should I do?
If your financial circumstances have changed, and your child/ teenager is applying for student loans, you will need to update the relevant Student Loans Company. Some student finance is based on a student’s household income so the Student Loans Company will need financial details from the parent(s) or partner to calculate how much funding a student can get is needed. However, it is understood that financial circumstances can change and the Student Loans Company have a process in place to help with that.
During the student finance application process, the parent(s)/partner will be asked to provide financial details from a previous tax year. If they’ve lost their job and are not earning as much now as they did then, the Student Loans Company can look at an application based on the ‘Current Year Income (CYI)’.
There are different rules for the CYI process depending on where a student lives in the UK and also the type of student finance they are applying for – to find out the specific rules that apply to your circumstances go to the relevant website:
How does my child get access to the student hardship fund?
Our University Financial Assistance Fund (formerly known as the Hardship Fund), is a scheme to assist Home Students who find themselves in financial difficulty, and is usually non-repayable.Students will need to read through the criteria and complete an online application form.

It's important to stay up to date with the University's plans before coming onto campus in the autumn. Find out important information below.

What is the start date for 2020/2021?
We have two main start dates for our academic year. One for students joining us from within the UK and one for international students. These are:
- UK students and returning International students - 21 September 2020
- New International students - 26 October 2020
Some courses may have an earlier start. We’ll add details once dates are confirmed and you’ll be sent the specific information for your course as part of your joining instructions.
We know that some students may be unable to resume their studies straight away due to health, travel problems and possible quarantine restrictions. We want to give everyone the chance to join us this year so, if you have any extenuating circumstances, we will be offering you the opportunity to re-enrol by Monday 26th October.
If you are unable to join us in September, don’t worry. You will be offered additional support so you can catch up with your studies and you will be sent information in advance so you can prepare as much as possible. You will also have access to our virtual events, online groups to meet other students, as well as wellbeing support if you have any concerns.
Some changes have also been made to the length of our Christmas Vacation and Semester B teaching weeks. View the academic calendar for 2020/21 to see our updated term dates.
If you have any questions, please talk to your Programme Leader.
How will social distancing be managed on the buses, particularly the shuttle?
The University has its own bus company, with discounted tickets available for students.
Uno bus have a number of measures in place to ensure social distancing is observed on their buses and The Shuttle. These include:
- A reduced passenger capacity on each bus
- Areas of seating which are cordoned off
- Signage regarding 2m spacing
- Hand sanitiser dispensers on the door to the bus
How do I keep in touch with the University’s plans?
All our plans will be communicated to you by email. Check our website herts.ac.uk and our social media channels for our latest news and updates.

This guidance will be updated regularly. Please read updates on face coverings via our website, emails to you, and social media.

What is a face covering?

Face coverings are not PPE or Medical Devices and do not protect the wearer. However, they may protect others and help our community to feel safer.

Face masks and medical masks should only be used in medical and clinical settings. See our table below to see the different between face coverings:

Item	About	Protection
Face covering	Can be made at home or bought commercially Usually washable and reusable Not PPE or Medical Devices	No protection for the wearer but may protect others if the wearer is infected but does not have symptoms.
Surgical Face Mask	Disposable Not generally considered PPE outside of healthcare situations	Provide barrier protection against respiratory droplets reaching the mucosa of the mouth and nose.
Face shields (or visors)	Can be reusable or disposable	Provide barrier protection to the facial area (eyes, nose, lips) from respiratory droplets, aerosols and from splashing of secretions (including respiratory secretions), blood, body fluids or excretions.

How do I use a face covering?
- A face covering should cover your mouth and nose while allowing you to breathe comfortably.
- Wash your hands or use hand sanitiser before putting it on and after taking it off.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth and store used face coverings in a plastic bag until you have an opportunity to wash them.
- Do not touch the front of the face covering, or the part of the face covering that has been in contact with your mouth and nose.
- You should wash a face covering regularly. It can go in with other laundry, using your normal detergent.
- When wearing a face covering, take care to tuck away any loose ends.
If you experience light-headedness or shortness of breath when you are wearing your face covering, seek support from your lecturer or tutor. It may be that you need to take regular breaks from wearing your mask throughout the day when appropriate and at a safe distance from others.
Face coverings do not replace social distancing. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 (cough, and/or high temperature, and/or loss of, or change in, your normal sense of smell or taste - anosmia), you and your household must isolate at home: wearing a face covering does not change this. You should arrange to have a test to see if you have COVID-19.
Where do I need to wear a face covering on campus?
Face coverings need to be worn in the following situations:
- If you are less than 2 metres from other individuals for 15 minutes or more
- In all teaching spaces; lectures, tutorials, seminars*
- In shared communal spaces; staff kitchens, staff rooms, social spaces*
- In shared/open plan office spaces*
- In the on-campus shops and catering outlets (from 25 July, in line with government guidelines)
- On the campus shuttle and any other public transport as outlined by the Government
*You do not need to wear a face covering if you are the sole occupant of a room or if you can maintain more than 2 meters apart from others.
If you can, you should also wear a face covering in other enclosed public spaces (such as the LRCs) where social distancing isn’t possible and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet. This is most relevant for short periods indoors in crowded areas.
How long will I be expected to wear a face covering on campus?
We do not know how long this measure will be in place, but we will update you as soon as there are any changes to the use of face coverings on campus. While government guidance on face coverings may change, please check the emails that the University sends you as we are also following our own health and safety precautions to keep you safe.
Where can I get a face covering?
To help us to protect each other, the University will be purchasing:
- 20,000 branded face coverings for our staff and students.
- 1,000 face visors for academic staff
- Medical PPE for areas where essential work requires it
You can also make your own face coverings at home (see how to make your own) or you can purchase them online.
Face coverings will be provided on a first come first served basis. To ensure those who wish to wear a mask can have one, we ask that individuals only obtain one covering for their own use. Should individuals wish to obtain a second mask, these will be available for purchase from the campus shops.
More information about how we will distribute the masks to you will follow.
What if I can’t wear a face covering?
You may not be able to wear a face covering due to:
- Existing physical or mental health condition
- Learning or communication needs
This is not an exhaustive list and we are here to support you whatever your circumstance.
If you are unable to wear a face covering, or would be adversely impacted by others wearing a face covering please contact us. We can make recommendations for you and support you to get the most out of your time here.
If you would like to discuss your disability or difficulty, health concern or access on and around campus, please contact StudentWellbeing@herts.ac.uk, we will be able to discuss your needs and make recommendations for adjustments to support you to achieve your potential.
Please also be assured of the other measures the University has in place for September. Read more about them here.
What if I see someone not wearing a face covering? What is the University’s code of conduct?
No disciplinary action will be taken against those who choose not to wear a covering, and it is important to remember that some individuals are unable to wear a face covering due to medical reasons.
We are committed to supporting and promoting the health and wellbeing of our community. It is expected that staff and students will respect the decisions made by members of our community to protect themselves and each other.
All students sign up to abide by the Student Code of Conduct and as part of the Code agree…” to be personally responsible for their actions and behaviour to comply with the University’s Health and Safety policies and regulations… to take reasonable care of their health and safety and not to endanger the health or safety of others”.
The majority of our students abide by this code, however, if a student or staff member has witnessed or experienced an incident, or they feel uncomfortable, they can report these directly to the Office of the Dean of Students. If they are worried about someone else, they can also report this using these forms. These online forms enable students and staff to report anonymously or seek advice from an adviser. Access the forms here.
Will my lecturers/university staff be wearing face coverings?
We will be providing face visors to ensure your lecturers can continue to deliver high-quality and interactive teaching with as little barrier to your learning as possible.
Face coverings are part of a series of measures at the University to keep our community safe. Our teaching spaces are now set up to ensure lecturers will be at least 2m away from students when teaching, so if your lecturer can maintain a 2m distance from you throughout the teaching session, they do not have to wear a face visor.
How is the University promoting the use of face coverings?
There are several measures in place to promote the use of face coverings. Signage has been installed across the University and we will be using the digital screens across both campuses to remind everyone about the safety precautions we should all adopt.
This is a shared responsibility to keep all our community safe, and we encourage you all to educate yourselves and others to spread awareness about the health-positive facts of face coverings.