Information for Students
- My Queen's: Information on studying and life at Queen's
- Mitigation measures in place on campus and in teaching spaces
- Social Distancing
- Face Coverings
- Asymptomatic testing
- Vaccinations
- On-Campus Walk-in Covid-19 Vaccination Centre
- If you develop symptoms / are identified as a close contact
- Self-isolation and quarantine
- Travel
- Finance
- Disability and Wellbeing
- Accommodation
- Students' Union
- International Students
- Erasmus and Study or Work Placement Abroad
- Covid-19 Information
- Useful Contacts
My Queen's: Information on studying and life at Queen's
For the latest updates on studying and life at Queen's, including information for new students, your learning environment, all of our support services and advice on how to make the most of your student experience, visit the My Queen's website.
Mitigation measures in place on campus and in teaching spaces
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What mitigation measures are in place on campus?
As always, the safety and wellbeing of our students and staff remains our first priority and all the necessary measures are in place on campus. Students and staff must also adhere to University and public health guidance regarding Covid-19, taking personal responsibility to ensure that transmission is minimised.
A range of mitigation measures and precautions are in place on campus:
- On-campus vaccinations: Vaccination offers the most effective way to protect against serious illness from Covid-19 and we are encouraging all staff and students, who have not already done so, to register for vaccination as soon as possible. Queen's is working with the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust and the Public Health Agency to support and encourage students to get vaccinated against COVID-19. To make this as easy as possible, we have arranged on-campus walk-in vaccination centres for any students who have not yet received their first jab.
- Ventilation: We have a range of ventilation protocols in place on campus. This includes mechanical ventilation, natural ventilation or a combination of mechanical and natural ventilation.
- Social distancing:
- While legal restrictions regarding the requirement to socially distance have been removed and replaced with guidance, the University would encourage everyone to continue to keep their distance as much as possible when moving around campus.
- In some teaching spaces, you will notice that we have signage in place which will only be used if the Public Health Agency asks universities and colleges to implement increased social distancing. We have done this in advance to minimise disruption to your teaching should we have to make this change at short notice. For now, students are free to sit on any seat in teaching spaces and we will advise staff and students if this changes.
- If you are a PhD student using work and laboratory space on campus, your School will advise you on the social distancing requirements in your workspace.
- Face-coverings: Students must wear face coverings as follows:
- While legal restrictions regarding the wearing of face coverings have been removed and replaced with guidance, the University would encourage everyone to continue to wear a face covering in teaching, learning and study spaces, including the library. Face coverings should also be worn when circulating around campus buildings, including corridors and communal spaces. By wearing a face covering, you are showing your support and consideration for others together with playing your part to limit the transmission of the virus. Find out more about face coverings on campus here.
- Hygiene: Hand sanitiser and sanitising wipes are available across the campus. A number of external hand-washing stations are also available. Staff and students are encouraged to make use of these before entry to the building.
- Download the StopCovidNI app.
- Signage and one-way systems: There is no longer a requirement to follow signage displayed regarding one-way systems, priority access, capacity numbers etc. However, in some teaching spaces, you will notice that we have signage in place which will only be used if the Public Health Agency ask universities and colleges to implement increased social distancing. We have done this in advance to minimise disruption to your teaching should we have to make this change at short notice. For now, students are free to sit on any seat in teaching spaces and we will advise staff and students if this changes.
- What mitigation measures are in place in teaching spaces?
In line with current NI Executive guidance, face-to-face teaching will resume with no social distancing requirements in place for teaching spaces.
As always, the safety and wellbeing of our students and staff remains our first priority and all the necessary mitigation measures are in place on campus.
- Vaccination offers the most effective way to protect against serious illness from Covid-19 and we are encouraging all staff and students, who have not already done so, to register for vaccination as soon as possible.
- Face coverings:
- While legal restrictions regarding the wearing of face coverings have been removed and replaced with guidance, the University would encourage all students to continue to wear a face covering during teaching sessions and when circulating around campus buildings including corridors and communal spaces. By wearing a face covering, you are showing your support and consideration for others together with playing your part to limit transmission of the virus.
- Cleaning: An enhanced cleaning regime is in place for teaching spaces.
- Hygiene supplies: Hand sanitiser and wipes are provided in teaching spaces.
- Download the StopCovidNI app.
- Scheduling: For larger teaching sessions, your lecturer or tutor may schedule the beginning and the end of the session to allow time for you to enter and exit in an orderly manner.
- Social distancing:
- While legal restrictions regarding the requirement to socially distance have been removed and replaced with guidance, the University would encourage everyone to continue to keep their distance as much as possible when moving around campus.
- In some teaching spaces, you will notice that we have signage in place which will only be used if the Public Health Agency asks universities and colleges to implement increased social distancing. We have done this in advance to minimise disruption to your teaching should we have to make this change at short notice. For now, students are free to sit on any seat in teaching spaces and we will advise staff and students if this changes.
- If you are a PhD student using work and laboratory space on campus, your School will advise you on the social distancing requirements in your workspace.
- Ventilation: All lecture theatres, teaching spaces and laboratories on the campus are able to be ventilated using mechanical ventilation, natural ventilation or a combination of mechanical and natural ventilation.
To support this, University heating systems will be carefully monitored and configured to help keep ambient temperatures comfortable for students and staff in naturally ventilated spaces during the winter months. When deciding what to wear on campus, we encourage you to consider that spaces will be ventilated.
- If I have symptoms, am awaiting test results or am required to self-isolate, should I attend face-to-face teaching?
No. Do not attend face-to-face teaching if you:
- have symptoms and are waiting for a test result
- have tested positive
- are required to self-isolate
Students or staff experiencing symptoms should isolate and get tested.
- What steps should I be taking to help protect myself and others and reduce the spread of Covid-19?
- Vaccination offers the most effective way to protect against serious illness from COVID-19 and we are encouraging all staff and students, who have not already done so, to register for vaccination as soon as possible.
- Download the StopCovidNI app.
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All students and staff should continue to follow the latest public health and University guidance and continue to adhere to protective measures and sensible precautions to suppress coronavirus (COVID-19).
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It makes sense to practice good hygiene and follow advice published on the PHA website.
- Immediately self-isolate if you develop symptoms / test positive
- There are other steps we should all be taking on a daily basis. Please continue to:
- Wash your hands regularly
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Practice social distancing
- Wear face coverings
- Follow the latest Public Health Agency advice
- Review Queen's FAQs for staff and students
Your wellbeing is the University’s first priority. Please do not let any concerns about your work or studies stop you taking this advice.
- Some teaching spaces have signage indicating social distancing in seating arrangements. Do students need to follow this signage?
No. For now, students are free to sit on any seat in teaching spaces and we will advise staff and students if this changes.
In some teaching spaces, you will notice that we have signage in place which will only be used if the Public Health Agency ask universities and colleges to implement increased social distancing. We have done this in advance to minimise disruption to your teaching should we have to make this change at short notice.
Social Distancing
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Are students required to socially distance?
- While legal restrictions regarding the requirement to socially distance have been removed and replaced with guidance, the University would encourage everyone to continue to keep their distance as much as possible when moving around campus.
- In some teaching spaces, you will notice that we have signage in place which will only be used if the Public Health Agency asks universities and colleges to implement increased social distancing. We have done this in advance to minimise disruption to your teaching should we have to make this change at short notice. For now, students are free to sit on any seat in teaching spaces and we will advise staff and students if this changes.
- If you are a PhD student using work and laboratory space on campus, your School will advise you on the social distancing requirements in your workspace.
- Some teaching spaces have signage indicating social distancing in seating arrangements. Do students need to follow this signage?
No. For now, students are free to sit on any seat in teaching spaces and we will advise staff and students if this changes.
In some teaching spaces, you will notice that we have signage in place which will only be used if the Public Health Authority ask universities and colleges to implement increased social distancing. We have done this in advance to minimise disruption to your teaching should we have to make this change at short notice.
- What are the social distancing requirements for PhD students using work and laboratory space on campus?
PhD students using work and laboratory space on campus will be advised by their School on the social distancing requirements in their work space.
Face Coverings
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Are students required to wear face coverings on campus?
While legal restrictions regarding the wearing of face coverings have been removed and replaced with guidance, the University would encourage all students to continue to wear a face covering during teaching sessions and when circulating around campus buildings including corridors and communal spaces. By wearing a face covering, you are showing your support and consideration for others together with playing your part to limit transmission of the virus.
- What is the guidance for maintaining and disposing of facemasks?
The NI Executive have provided guidance regarding the maintenance and disposal of face coverings here and you are asked to familiarise yourself with this guidance.
Asymptomatic testing
Update on provision of at-home test kits
The distribution of LFD Home Test Kits for asymptomatic testing by staff and students ceased on Friday 15 April.
For further information on asymptomatic testing, please visit the NI Direct website.
Vaccinations
Please be aware that previous COVID-19 infection does not protect against the Omicron variant.
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Where can I find information on the Northern Ireland COVID-19 Vaccination Programme?
We strongly encourage all staff and students to take up the vaccine.
The more of us who are vaccinated the more it helps reduce transmission and the health consequences if you do catch the virus.
Information on the Northern Ireland Covid Vaccination Programme is available on the NI Direct website.
For those unable to attend our on-campus vaccination clinics, you can book your vaccination at: Get Vaccinated | COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Northern Ireland.
Just bring your photographic ID and proof of address (for example, a bill or letter from the University).
Further information
We recommend that for any information on vaccines, including frequently asked questions and myth busters, you look at the sources prepared by the Public Health Agency via the following link:
COVID-19 vaccination campaign resources | HSC Public Health Agency (hscni.net)
- Can international students get a vaccine in Northern Ireland?
We strongly encourage all staff and students to take up the vaccine.
The more of us who are vaccinated the more it helps reduce transmission and the health consequences if you do catch the virus.
For those unable to attend our on-campus vaccination clinics, you can book your vaccination at: Get Vaccinated | COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Northern Ireland.
Just bring your photographic ID and proof of address (for example, a bill or letter from the University).
Information on the Northern Ireland COVID-19 Vaccination Programme is available on the Public Health Agency website.
Registering with a GP
We recommend that, if you have not done so already, you register with a GP.
For information on how to register with a GP please have visit the MyQueen’s site.
- Will I have to be vaccinated before I can return to campus?
While we strongly encourage all staff and students to take up the vaccine, it is not mandatory.
However, the more of us who are vaccinated the more it helps reduce transmission and the health consequences if you do catch the virus. It is therefore important to get vaccinated as soon as possible and before you leave for Queen’s if you can.
- Student Covid-19 Vaccination in Northern Ireland
We strongly encourage all staff and students to take up the vaccine. The more of us who are vaccinated the more it helps reduce transmission and the health consequences if you do catch the virus.
For those unable to attend our on-campus vaccination clinics, you can book your vaccination at: Get Vaccinated | COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Northern Ireland.
Just bring your photographic ID and proof of address (for example, a bill or letter from the University).
- Student Covid-19 Vaccination in England, Scotland or Wales
We strongly encourage all staff and students to take up the vaccine.
Find information on how to arrange an appointment or access a walk-in vaccination centre in England, Scotland or Wales:
On-Campus Walk-in Covid-19 Vaccination Clinics
Queen's is working with the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust and the Public Health Agency to support and encourage students to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
To make this as easy as possible, we have arranged on-campus walk-in vaccination centres for any students who have not yet received their first jab.
No appointment necessary. Just bring your photographic ID and proof of address (for example, a bill or letter from the University).
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What are the opening hours and locations for on-campus walk-in vaccination clinics at Queen's?
View the schedule for on-campus walk-in vaccination clinics at Queen's.
For those unable to attend our on-campus vaccination clinics, you can book your vaccination at: Get Vaccinated | COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Northern Ireland.
If you develop symptoms / are identified as a close contact
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What should I do if I develop COVID-19 symptoms?
It is important that we all monitor our own health and watch out for any of the following symptoms:
- a high temperature – this means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature); OR
- a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours (if you usually have a cough, it may be worse than usual); OR
- a loss of or change in sense of smell or taste.
If you feel unwell with any of these symptoms, you should follow these important steps:
- Self-isolate immediately. If you are on campus when symptoms begin to develop, please put on a face covering straight away and return to your home or accommodation, avoiding public transport if you can. Where required the University can assist you in booking a special COVID-secure taxi to transport you home, please call 028 9097 5098/5099. Please note that there is a cost for the taxi.
- Arrange a test. You can do this online via this link or by calling 119. If you have no access to transport to access a drive through test, the University can help you arrange a special COVID secure taxi, please call 028 9097 5098/5099 for further assistance. Please note that there is a cost for the taxi.
Your health and safety is the University’s first priority so please do not let any concerns about your work or study stop you from following any of these steps or public health advice.
- What should I do if I test positive for COVID-19?
If you receive a positive test, you will be given clear guidance from the health authorities to continue to self-isolate and you should update the StopCOVID NI app.
Your health and safety is the University’s first priority so please do not let any concerns about your work or study stop you from following any of these steps or public health advice.
- If you are identified as a close contact
If you are aware and/or are notified that you are a contact of a confirmed case of COVID-19, you should follow the appropriate guidance. This includes guidance found at NI Direct and any self-isolation advice you are given by the PHA, if required.
You can find out more about contact tracing on the NI Direct website.
Your health and safety is the University's first priority, so please do not let any concerns about your work or study stop you from following any of these steps or public health advice.
During a period of self-isolation, you cannot come on to any part of campus.
Reporting absences from study
You should now follow the normal procedure for reporting sickness absences from study due to COVID-19. Regulations for Students 5.11 states that students must inform the relevant School Office of absence due to illness within three working days of returning to studies. Medical evidence will be required for absence longer than five working days. You can find information on getting an isolation note on the NHS website.
If you are absent from campus due to isolation but well enough to continue with your studies, you do not need to report sickness absence. However, you can get an isolation note using the link above and you should advise your School that you are not able to attend in person. Your School will do what they can to support you with your studies during any period of self-isolation.
As the PHA is carrying out identification of close contacts, the University’s on-campus contact tracing team has been stood down and our self-reporting portal is no longer in operation.
- Reporting absences from study
You should now follow the normal procedure for reporting sickness absences from study due to COVID-19. Regulations for Students 5.11 states that students must inform the relevant School Office of absence due to illness within three working days of returning to studies. Medical evidence will be required for absence longer than five working days. You can find information on getting an isolation note on the NHS website.
If you are absent from campus due to isolation but well enough to continue with your studies, you do not need to report sickness absence. However, you can get an isolation note using the link above and you should advise your School that you are not able to attend in person. Your School will do what they can to support you with your studies during any period of self-isolation.
As the PHA is carrying out identification of close contacts, the University’s on-campus contact tracing team has been stood down and our self-reporting portal is no longer in operation.
Self-isolation and quarantine
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Where can I find advice for students on self-isolation and quarantine, including support available?
Visit the MyQueen's website for information on self-isolation.
During your period of self-isolation, you cannot come on to any part of campus.
- What is the guidance on self-isolation for medical and dental students who are on clinical placement?
Medical and dental students who are on clinical placement must refer to and observe the HSC rules in place at this time.
- Who should self-isolate and for how long?
Advice on self-isolation can been found on the NI Direct Website. https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-self-isolating
- If I isolate but then receive a positive test, how long do I have to isolate for?
Advice on self-isolation can been found on the NI Direct Website.
- Do I have to isolate again if I become a close contact again?
You should continue to follow the appropriate guidance. This includes guidance found at NI Direct and any self-isolation advice you are given by the PHA, if required
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What should I do if I am notified that I am a contact of a confirmed case off-campus or am required to self-isolate?
If you are notified that you are a contact of a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the community, you should follow all of the guidance you are given – including self-isolation if required.
If another member of your household has been traced but they are not displaying symptoms, please check the latest advice here.
Your health and safety is the University's first priority, so please do not let any concerns about your work or study stop you from following any of these steps or public health advice.
Travel
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I intend to travel internationally (outside of the UK). What do I need to do?
You must continue to regularly review and follow official guidance, including:
- Public Health Agency guidance for students, including in relation to travel
- Government guidance in relation to travel
- Travel within the Common Travel Area (United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man and Channel Islands)
If you intend to travel home internationally (outside of the UK) during this academic year, you must check if your destination or airline requires evidence of a negative test before travel.
For entry into some countries, for example, China, an additional type of COVID test is also a requirement prior to travelling.
The correct COVID tests and certificates required for travelling to an international destination may only be obtained in a private clinic and usually involve a cost.
- Can students travel for international study or work placements?
Please see the COVID-19 Erasmus and Study Abroad FAQs on the Careers website for information.
- I intend to travel for a placement or research activity within the the Common Travel Area (CTA) (United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands). What do I need to do?
In line with guidance from NI Executive there are no restrictions or testing requirements if you’re travelling from one region to another within the CTA (UK, Guernsey, Jersey, Isle of Man or the Republic of Ireland).
This includes travelling to Northern Ireland via the Republic of Ireland from overseas. However, you will still need to follow their rules:
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I plan to travel to my home or other residence this semester. Should I have an LFD test in advance of travelling? How do I arrange an LFD test?
We would strongly encourage any students going home (within the Common Travel Area) to take an LFD / asymptomatic test before travelling. More information on testing can be found on the NI Direct website.
You must continue to regularly review and follow official guidance, including:
- Public Health Agency guidance for students, including in relation to travel
- Government guidance in relation to travel
- Travel within the Common Travel Area (United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man and Channel Islands)
Travelling to Queen's University Belfast – What you need to do regarding travel, quarantine and testing
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I'm travelling to Queen's from within the Common Travel Area – what is the guidance in relation to travel, quarantine and testing?
You can find guidance on regarding travel, quarantine and testing at the following link:
When travelling through England, Scotland or the Republic of Ireland (RoI) on their way to Northern Ireland, students will be subject to the Regulations which apply in each jurisdiction. These should be reviewed in making travel arrangements.
If you are arriving into another area within the Common Travel area (United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands) before travelling on to Northern Ireland, you can find guidance regarding travel, quarantine and testing requirements here.
We strongly encourage students travelling on a student visa to travel to Belfast via the UK (for example London, Manchester, Glasgow). However if you are on a student visa and are planning to travel via Dublin please check the International Student Support before you book your flights as you may be required to apply for an Irish visa to enter the UK via Dublin. If it is agreed that it is possible for you to travel into Dublin, the Irish government's rules for international arrivals can be found here.
Students should always refer to NI Direct guidance and other government sources in the first instance for current and comprehensive guidance.
- Is my home country is on the red list?
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Details of countries on the red list can be found on the NI Direct website. Guidance on arriving from non-red list countries is also available on NI Direct.
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- Where can I book / acquire my Day 2 test?
You will need to book your day 2 test manually through the NI Direct website. The page will then direct you to the GOV UK website.
- I returned home for the winter break to a country outside the Common Travel Area - what do I need to do?
- What are the testing requirements?
Please ensure you follow the guidelines for PCR/LFD testing the NI Travel guidance.
If you are not vaccinated or have a recognised vaccination we will deliver and collect your PCR test during your self-isolation period.
We recommend that all students test regularly during their stay to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.
More information on testing can be found on the NI Direct website: NI Direct – Information on Testing.
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What Travel Cover and exclusions apply?
Please be aware that in order for University travel cover to apply, the travel must be approved in line with University procedures (see FAQs), which includes a suitable risk assessment being carried out. Travel cover will provide for Emergency Medical Treatment, including Covid-related treatment while overseas. However, there is no cover for any costs incurred in respect of Covid related issues; for example, cancellation, curtailment, isolation etc, and any such costs will be borne by the home School/Directorate.
If travel is authorised by any School or Directorate, students should notify the University Insurance Section, of the relevant details for the journey, by completing an online travel notification form.
Details can be found on the Queen’s Travel Insurance page.
If you have any queries, please contact insurance@qub.ac.uk.
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Can I book my Post arrival test at Queen’s?
No. LFD tests are unsuitable for post-arrival testing.
Students must box and pay for PCR tests - you will find information on how to do this on the NI Direct official travel guidance.
Finance
For information on fees, student loans and the University's Hardship Fund, please visit: https://www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Feesandfinance/fees-and-funding-faqs/
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Where can international students experiencing financial hardship get support?
This is a challenging and anxious time for students and in some cases, this may be exacerbated further by financial hardship as a result of the pandemic.
International students who find themselves facing significant financial hardship during their studies, due to exceptional or unplanned circumstances can access the University’s own Hardship Fund. The same application and assessment process as the Student Support Fund applies and includes providing copies of 3 months bank statement and evidence of accommodation cost, to demonstrate the financial hardship. If a student meets the criteria, and demonstrates evidence of significant financial hardship, a one off payment will be made.
You can apply to the University Hardship Fund online by logging into your Qsis Student Account at https://qsis.qub.ac.uk/
Disability and Wellbeing
For support and information for students with a disability, please visit: www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/disability/studentinformation/Covid-19-Info/
For general wellbeing and mental health support, including guidance on how to register with a GP or for support if you are concerned about the impact of Covid-19 on your wellbeing, please visit: www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/wellbeing/Covid-19/
Accommodation
For advice on University accommodation, including arrivals, quarantine support and safety measures in place to safeguard your health, please visit: Self-isolation guidance and information for students.
Visit the Queen's Accommodation website.
Students' Union
For information on the services provided by the Students’ Union, including Fresher’s Fair, Clubs and Societies, Enterprise SU and Advice SU, please visit: qubsu.org/
International Student Support
International Student Support provides specialist information and advice in relation to a range of visa and immigration related issues including applying for your visa to come to the UK, extending your visa in the UK, biometric residence permit queries, etc. Find out more: https://www.qub.ac.uk/sites/iss/.
Erasmus and Study or Work Placement Abroad
For further information on international study or work placements (for example, Erasmus), please visit: https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/GlobalOpportunities/Covid19Update/
Covid-19 Information
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Where can I find support, information and updates?
To help keep you up-to-date with the latest support, information and updates, we continue to regularly update the information and support information provided on our COVID-19 (Coronavirus) FAQs website and MyQueen's website so please review these pages regularly.
- Where can I access public health advice in relation to COVID-19 (Coronavirus)?
- I'm anxious about COVID-19 – what support is available?
If you are a student who is concerned as a result of COVID-19, the University’s Student Wellbeing Service can offer support and guidance. Please contact the Student Wellbeing Service by emailing studentwellbeing@qub.ac.uk. A member of staff will get in touch with you directly.
- Where can I find information about current restrictions and what they mean for me?
Find information about current restrictions and what they mean for you on the NI Direct website.
Useful Contacts
If the information you are looking for is not addressed in the University's Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQs, there are a range of contact points for staff and students: