Marking boycott to leave students “in limbo”

The commencement of the University and College Union (UCU) and Further Education Lecturers Association (EIS-FELA) marking and assessment boycotts from 20th April 2023 have left students across the UK “in limbo”. 

The UCU asked all its members to “cease undertaking all summative marking and associated assessment activities/duties”. The boycott, an action short of a strike (ASOS), also covers assessment-related work such as the processing of marks and exam invigilation.  

UCU action is affecting 145 institutions across the UK. Moreover, the EIS-FELA has advised members to not enter student results into university recording systems.  

As a result of the boycotts, students have had their ability to progress both in education and to the workforce greatly hindered. Finalists, in particular, are affected, as the boycotts mean that they may not have their dissertations marked.  

Quite a lot of jobs you need a certain degree — so many people are in this limbo, whereby they’re potentially not going to find out and it’s really problematic.

–Anonymous Student

Considering that many graduate jobs also have grade requirements, they may find their job prospects impacted too. Those planning on studying abroad in 2023-24 have also been left in the lurch, as they need to meet specific academic criteria in order to progress. 

Concerned students have had little to no clarity on the situation, with them potentially having to face disruptions up till September, or until the dispute is settled. 

Speaking to Sky News, a fourth-year History student at the University of Edinburgh said: “Quite a lot of jobs you need a certain degree — so many people are in this limbo, whereby they’re potentially not going to find out and it’s really problematic.” 

The University of Warwick has advised students “to continue to engage with [their] learning and teaching as usual”. The University has additionally said that they are “committed to ensuring that our final year students who are in good academic standing will graduate on time this summer and are developing robust contingency plans to limit the impact of the UCU’s boycott”.