Under 18 at University

Every year, a proportion of our students who are under the age of 18 join the University. The University is an adult environment, and all students are treated equally. However, the law draws an important line at age 18 and there are a number of issues which we would wish to bring to your attention.

Legal Status

As a general rule under UK law, a minor is unable to enter into a contract. However, our legal advice is that this does not apply in this situation to the provision of education or accommodation, and therefore you will be able to register personally with the University and apply and enter into a legal contract for accommodation in the same way as student aged 18 or over.

University Residential Accommodation

You are entitled to apply for University owned or partnership accommodation. All new undergraduates irrespective of age are guaranteed the offer of accommodation providing that they meet certain conditions. Even where the required conditions are not met, the University will still try to meet any request for University accommodation in the case of students who are under 18. We will also endeavour to ensure that the accommodation offered has easy access to a member of Resident Support or to a 24 hour staffed reception facility.

Accommodation and Campus Services' policy on under 18's

Alcohol

The law in the UK prohibits persons under the age of 18 from buying alcohol in licensed premises, or to have alcohol bought for them by another for consumption in a bar. Bar staff in University licensed premises are encouraged to check proof of age where they are not sure.

Other Special Arrangements

Apart from those arrangements mentioned above, the University assumes that all students being admitted to study here will have a similar level of educational competence and personal maturity, and that those under the age of 18 will not wish to be singled out for special treatment, unless we are advised otherwise.

This University offers a very wide range of excellent support facilities for all its students, and there are many staff members on hand to help should problems arise. If you feel that you may appreciate additional support or if there are any support issues due to age or any other personal circumstance which you would like to bring to our attention, you may notify us in advance by emailing support@sheffield.ac.uk

Data Protection

The 1998 Data Protection Act prohibits the University from disclosing any information about a student´s progress, either academic or social, to parents or anyone else without the student´s express consent. This applies to students of all ages, including under those under the age of 18.

Health Issues

At the age of 16, patients in the UK are able to give consent for most medical/dental treatment without a parent´s knowledge. Treatment is confidential.