What to do when a student isn't engaging

Advice and support for staff on what to do when a student isn't engaging with with their studies.

Tier 4 Students

If a Tier 4 student fails to engage sufficiently with their studies, they are at risk of not complying with the terms of their visa.  There is a formal escalation procedure in place to address issues on non-engagement for Tier 4 students, and this must be followed.  The procedure also allows for potential pastoral issues to be addressed at an early stage.  Details of the escalation procedures can be found on College SharePoint sites.

Non-Tier 4 Students 

It can be worrying when a student fails to engage, especially if this appears to be contrary to previously sufficient patterns of engagement.  In the first instance, the Student Adviser/Supervisor/Student Support Team or Graduate School should contact the student via their University of Edinburgh email address to remind them that they must attend lectures and submit work, as per University Regulations.  In such emails it can be helpful to set a deadline by which the staff member should expect to hear back from the student.  In the event that such a deadline passes, the staff member should consult with the School or Deanery Senior Tutor or Head of Graduate School as to appropriate next steps, which may include contacting the student at their personal email account and/or phone number,  or escalating beyond the School or Deanery if there are concerns for a student’s wellbeing.

Students are at risk of exclusion of they fail to engage adequately with their studies.