UCL President Dr Michael Spence said the pandemic caused widespread disruption.
Indian Students Join 36 UK Universities COVID Compensation Class Action
Around 500 students based in India are among over 20,000 international applicants seeking compensation from 36 UK universities through a class action lawsuit for not receiving the level of education they paid for during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Student Group Claim, representing about 170,000 potential claimants, stated that a pre-action letter containing information about the proposed case has been sent to all 36 institutions. Represented by the law firms Asserson and Harcus Parker, the group argued that students deserve compensation for the education they were promised but did not receive.
Students paid for in-person teaching and access to facilities such as libraries and studios, but their courses were moved online, and access to facilities was restricted for long periods. Shimon Goldwater, partner at Asserson, said the firm is helping students demand compensation for the education they were promised.
Online courses usually cost 25-50 per cent less than in-person degrees, and the legal team said universities should pay the difference in value. Adam Zoubir, partner at Harcus Parker, added that students incurred high debts for a diminished educational experience and are now seeking fair compensation through the courts.
University College London (UCL) reached a confidential settlement with some students while admitting no liability and stating that government guidance had been followed. UCL President Dr Michael Spence said the pandemic caused widespread disruption but that students had access to processes for redress. The Student Group Claim continues to pursue compensation from other universities, inviting students affected in the 2020-21 academic year to submit claims before the September 2026 deadline under UK law.
Source: The Tribune
