Responses to EU referendum

Students and staff from the European Union are an intrinsic part of our international community.

The outcome of the referendum is now known. While UCL did not take a formal position during the referendum campaign, I have given my personal view and you will have heard many other voices from the UCL community. The loss of EU membership will have a clear impact on universities such as UCL, particularly around the mobility of students and funding of research.

Today, more than ever, I want to reaffirm that UCL remains a global university through our outlook, people and enduring international partnerships. I also want in particular to address UCL’s staff and students from all countries of the European Union. We value you enormously – your contribution to UCL life is intrinsic to what the university stands for.

This morning, I have reassured UCL staff and students that, barring unilateral action from the UK government, the vote to leave the European Union does not mean there will be any immediate material change to the immigration status of current and prospective EU students and staff, nor to the UK university sector’s participation in EU programmes such as Horizon 2020 and Erasmus+. Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty foresees a two-year negotiation process between the UK and other member states, during which time the terms of the UK’s exit from the European Union will be decided.

There will be many questions from many people in the UCL community and beyond about what this vote means for UCL. We will address these as a matter of priority as the details become clear.

Universities UK have provided some early guidance to answer some common staff and student questions. Please find this below.

UCL President & Provost, Professor Michael Arthur

EU referendum advice: frequently asked questions

Please follow the link to frequently asked questions and answers about the EU referendum and its potential impact on UCL research, staff, students and prospective students, as well as links to further information. These will be updated as new information arises. 

In addition, all UCL students and staff are warmly invited to attend a meeting on Tuesday 12 July, at which President & Provost, Professor Michael Arthur and a panel of the university's senior leaders will discuss what Brexit may mean for UCL. For details and to book a place, please see the ‘What will Brexit mean for UCL: a forum for the UCL community’ booking page.If you are unable to attend the event, it will be streamed live via the UCL website.