Help for Referees
Guidance for referees on submitting references in support of a postgraduate application.
Information on the subjects below are included within this web page:
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How do I access the reference form?
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How can I send an amended reference?
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What are the requirements for a reference?
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What should I do if I am unable to provide the reference by the date requested?
How do I access the reference form?
We do not provide a form for you to fill in online, but ask that you write your reference as a Word document or a PDF file, and upload the document to our Admission system via the link we sent you in the email requesting the reference.
How can I send an amended reference?
If you have already uploaded a reference and need to submit an amended reference, you can email a copy to the Admissions Office. The email address for the Admissions Office can be found on the email you received requesting the reference.
When sending an amended reference to Admissions directly, please ensure you provide the applicant's full name and the programme to which they have applied in the email subject line.
What are the requirements for a reference?
The University requires a dated reference with your name and position clearly stated on letter-headed paper, if uploading the document onto the system. If sending the reference as an email attachment to the Admissions Office, it must be from your e-mail address at the institution or organisation you are representing. More details on the requirements are available within the 'Postgraduate Study: References' page below:
Postgraduate Study: References
What should I do if I am unable to provide the reference by the date requested?
If you are unable to provide the reference by the date we have asked you to submit by, then please contact the relevant Admissions Office to advise them of the date you expect to have the reference.
The email address for the Admissions Office can be found on the email you received requesting the reference.
When emailing the Admissions Office, please ensure you provide the applicant's full name and the programme to which they have applied in the email subject line.
Guidance on providing references for your students
- You do not need the student’s consent to provide a reference. The legal basis is *performance of a contract” as the student wishes to enter into an employment contract. It’s the same for giving references for students making an application for further study. That is also “steps taken towards a contract” so the legal basis is the same.
- You must not provide confidential references, only a reference you would be prepared to share with the student.
- There is a legal obligation to use due care when compiling a reference in order to ensure its accuracy.
- As references involve the sharing, handling and disclosure of personal data, they are subject to the General Data Protection Regulation.
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