Today, the entire world suffers from a global shutdown because of the spread of Covid-19 and the education sector has definitely taken a hit. As this virus continues to shape our life and future ahead, it also continues to shape the landscape of admissions worldwide, including that of the United Kingdom.
Impact of Covid-19 on UK University Admissions
Admissions in general is a very testing time for the student, and there is no doubt, that the current scenario has added to the pressure. Students, especially international students, are now worried about the status of their application in UK universities this year. While some experts argue that keeping the health and safety of students in mind, it is best to postpone the admissions for the year, others argue that UK admissions 2020 process will not undergo any massive change and students can continue with their applications as before.
But light at the end of the tunnel still seems a little dull for international students. Countries across the globe are facing a major lockdown situation, therefore, centres for IELTS and TOEFL and visa applications have been temporarily closed. Schools and universities have postponed or canceled their examinations which has led to a considerable fear among students and parents alike. The biggest headache amidst all this are the momentary restrictions imposed on travelling abroad which has led to students grappling on the question of whether or not their dream of studying in UK will ever come true.
Post Covid-19 UK University Admission
There is no way of knowing how long the world will be stuck in the current situation and what the ‘new normal’ is going to look like. Top notch universities like the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, are awaiting further instructions for the government regarding information on domestic and international admissions and are yet to come up with their stance on the whole situation. University of Edinburgh has cancelled its Undergraduate Open Day for its prospective students which was otherwise scheduled to happen on June 15th. They have urged international students to continuously check the Student Immigration Service portal to discuss their options in case they are having difficulties in applying for a visa.
On the brighter side, University of Sussex has announced that inspite of all adversities, they are looking forward to the autumn applications and while they believe that the situation will come under control by September this year, they are urging perspective students to keep an eye for alteration in the government policies. Similarly, UCL has assured everyone that international applications will be accepted for this year, irrespective of the country they belong to, which has definitely come in as a fresh breather for everyone.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Advice and Guidance for Applicants
While being caught up in this web of uncertainty regarding UK university admissions process, here is something that will instantly bring a smile to your faces. United Kingdom government has assured that the applications for the year 2020 is under no pressure and while there has been a ‘conditional’ pause to the whole process, most of the universities will be accepting applications are usual.
In this current situation, the last thing anybody wants is for the students to come under stress and make uncalled assumptions. There is no denying that the world around us is getting scarier but making rash decisions can hamper their future.
Instead, they should take this time off to browse through their applications and through college websites while keeping themselves updated with all the changes. This is the time to brush up on skills and re-align thoughts and actions.