Discrimination at University

Experiencing discrimination at university can be unsettling, isolating and deeply stressful. Many students are unsure where to turn or how raising concerns might affect their studies or future career.

Your rights under the Equality Act

The Equality Act protects students in higher education from discrimination, harassment and victimisation. Universities must treat students fairly in admissions, teaching, assessments, pastoral support and access to facilities. They also have a legal duty to promote equality and foster positive relations across their communities.

The law protects students with the following characteristics:

• Age
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage and civil partnership
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race
• Religion or belief
• Sex
• Sexual orientation.

Types of discrimination at university

Direct discrimination

This occurs when a student is treated less favourably because of a protected characteristic. For example, a student may receive unfair treatment because of their race, sex, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation or gender reassignment.

Indirect discrimination

Indirect discrimination happens when a rule or practice applies to all students but places those with a protected characteristic at a disadvantage. For example, a policy that impacts disabled students more than others may be open to challenge.

Discrimination arising from disability

This occurs when a student is treated unfavourably because of something connected to their disability. A common example is unfair treatment arising from disability related absence.

Harassment

Harassment includes unwanted behaviour that creates an intimidating or distressing environment. In a university setting, this might involve offensive remarks, exclusion, mocking or inappropriate conduct related to a protected characteristic. Sexual harassment is also unlawful.

Victimisation

Victimisation occurs when someone is treated unfavourably because they have made or supported a complaint under the Equality Act. For example, a student might face negative consequences after raising concerns about discriminatory behaviour.

Failure to make reasonable adjustments

Universities must make reasonable adjustments to remove substantial disadvantage for disabled students. This may involve adjustments to teaching methods, assessments or access to facilities. We can advise you if these duties to make adjustments have been met.

Can you take legal action against a university?

It is possible to bring a discrimination claim against a university under the Equality Act. This is usually a final step after internal complaints and alternative resolution methods have been explored. Claims for student university discrimination must be brought within six months of the discriminatory act.

We can advise you on the strength of your potential claim, the evidence needed and the options available to achieve a positive outcome.

How can we support you?

We provide clear and practical guidance so that you can make informed decisions and protect your position with confidence.

We have extensive experience helping students who have faced discrimination at university. We act for students and their parents across a wide range of matters, including:

• Direct discrimination
• Indirect discrimination
• Discrimination that arises from disability
• Harassment
• Victimisation
• Failure to make reasonable adjustments for disability
• Associative discrimination.

We deliver clear guidance and practical steps so you understand what to expect, what evidence you may need, and the options available to resolve your situation as swiftly and constructively as possible.

Fixed fee consultation

If you believe you have been discriminated against at university, early legal advice can make a significant difference.

We offer students a fixed fee consultation with a specialist university discrimination solicitor. This gives you, the student, the chance to discuss your concerns in detail, understand your legal options and receive tailored advice about the best way forward.