Exeter University offers students without guaranteed housing option to defer studies

The University of Exeter says it is unable to offer university accommodation to some students this year, due to exceptionally high demand for housing across the city, and is contacting those affected directly.

A University of Exeter spokesperson said the university had seen "exceptionally strong demand from students wishing to study at Exeter this year, alongside very high demand for accommodation across the city."

The university said it is meeting its accommodation commitments to students covered by its Accommodation Guarantee. However, it said demand this year means it is unable to offer university accommodation to some students who fall outside that guarantee.

"We recognise how disappointing this will be, and we are contacting affected students directly so they understand the position as early as possible and have time to consider the options available to them," the spokesperson said.

What options are affected students being offered?

The university said it is supporting affected students to explore private accommodation in Exeter through its accommodation services, and stressed that students living in private accommodation remain "fully part of the Exeter community," with the same access to teaching, student support, Welcome Week and Students' Guild activities as those in university housing.

Students also have the option to defer their studies to the next academic year.

It is understood that the option to defer has been offered specifically because of the shortage of available accommodation, rather than because courses themselves are oversubscribed.

The university said it is "looking forward to welcoming our new students in September" and will continue to provide practical support to those affected as they prepare to join.