If global events have impacted your studies or results

Will my application still be considered if my studies have been disrupted?

Yes. Applications will still be considered if your studies have been disrupted. If this applies to you, please contact the Admissions team as soon as possible. Each case will be reviewed individually and considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

Will my offer still stand if my results are affected?

If your results are affected by events outside of your control, Admissions will review your application on a case‑by‑case basis and aim to be as flexible as possible.

My exams have been cancelled. What happens now?

The examination board will state if they are putting contingency arrangements in place, such as using Teacher assessments or portfolios. Provided the grades are formally awarded and verifiable, we will accept the results fully and fairly and you will not be penalised because of exam cancellations beyond your control. You don’t need to contact us about this.

What can I do if I can’t meet my English Language conditions?

Please contact the Admissions team as soon as possible if you believe you may not be able to meet your English language condition. The Admissions team will be able to provide guidance on the alternative tests available to you.

What if my results are delayed?

Please contact the Admissions team as soon as possible if your results are delayed. The Admissions team will be able to provide guidance on possible late arrivals and, where results are delayed for an extended period, advise on alternative options such as deferring your year of entry.

Do you treat A Levels and International A Levels as the same qualification?

We are aware that at times, UK exam boards such as Pearson, AQA/OxfordAQA, Cambridge International may move students onto International A Levels where exams have been cancelled, to allow for contingency assessments methods. Provided the grades are formally awarded and verifiable, we will accept the results from either.

What counts as disruption to studies or results?

It is difficult to provide a definitive list of what would count as a disruption, as circumstances can vary widely. There may be different types and levels of disruption, and the impact on applicants can differ in each case.

Examples of disruptions may include (but are not limited to):

• Serious acute or chronic illness affecting the applicant
• Serious illness of a close family member or partner
• Bereavement, such as the death of a parent, sibling, or primary carer
• School or college closures, industrial action, or significant teaching disruption
• Travel restrictions or displacement
• Previously undiagnosed disabilities where reasonable adjustments were not in place
• Caring responsibilities, including young carers
• Experiences of bullying, harassment, or abuse
• Domestic violence, homelessness, or unstable housing
• Other significant personal or family circumstances beyond the applicant’s control

How do I tell the university about my situation?

You do not need to contact us about changes to the assessment method unless it will impact your result or delay it. Please contact our admission team using the below contact details regarding your circumstances.

Undergraduate applicants

Please complete our online Extenuating Circumstances form
 
Postgraduate Taught applicants

Please contact our admissions team at pg-ad@exeter.ac.uk
 
Postgraduate Research applicants

Please contact our admissions team at pgrapplicants@exeter.ac.uk

Will I need to provide evidence of disruption?

You will not be required to provide evidence at the time you initially contact Admissions. The Admissions team will contact you if they need more information.

What if I can’t provide my certificates on time?

If you are experiencing any difficulties obtaining your certificates, please contact the Admissions team as soon as possible. They will be able to offer advice and support to help you understand the options available.

What if I experience delays with visas or travel documents?

If delays are likely to prevent you from arriving at the start of your programme, please contact the Admissions team, who will be able to support you.

Can I defer my place if I am experiencing disruption to my studies?

Yes. Applicants wishing to defer their entry must submit their request in writing via our enquiry form. Please ensure you include your Exeter Reference Number, which can be found at the top of your original offer email.

Can I have a deposit deadline extension?

Yes. Please contact the Admissions Office via the Applicant Gateway.

if this is your first deposit deadline extension request you will automatically be able to extend your deposit to your chosen date.

If you don't select a date your new deposit deadline will be July 1st.  If you have previously requested a deposit deadline extension this cycle, please contact Admissions Office via the Applicant Gateway, providing details of the circumstance and advising on a date when the deposit payment would be possible and an extension will be considered.

Will I be refunded my deposit if I defer?

No. Your deposit will be rolled over with your application to the next admissions cycle.

Will my scholarship/studentship still be available if I defer?

Unfortunately, scholarships will be invalidated if an applicant defers their year of entry. In these circumstances, applicants would be required to reapply for a scholarship during the next admissions round.