More and more universities have announced their policies for the fall semester.
In the US, over 70% of universities have explicitly stated they will reopen campuses and resume in-person classes for the fall semester; 15% have not yet made a decision; 5% are considering multiple contingency plans; 5% will adopt a hybrid teaching model; and fewer than 2% have decided to move the fall semester entirely online.
Different countries and universities have their own back-to-school policies. Here we provide the latest updates on university reopening plans in the US, UK, and Canada.
Updates on US University Reopening Policies
Brown University
Brown University's president has clearly stated that every effort should be made to open the university in the fall. Although the exact mode of instruction has not been announced, ensuring that classes resume is a serious consideration for many institutions, as an early start can help avoid disruptions in education. A final decision is expected by July 15.
Yale University
Yale University has now confirmed that it will open in the fall. Although the specific date and teaching format are yet to be determined, it will strive to offer more diverse instructional methods so that students can choose flexibly and learn safely. The fall enrollment plan is expected to be announced in July.
Tufts University
Tufts University stated on its official website that regarding the fall semester and new student orientation, the current plan is still to open the campus in the fall, but the specific date has not yet been determined.
Cornell University
All of Cornell University's spring courses have been moved online, but due to the severe pandemic, the university has not yet announced specific plans for the fall. The education authorities have indicated that fall classes are likely to involve a combination of teaching formats to help students complete their studies smoothly. The fall enrollment plan is expected to be announced in June.
University of Miami
The University of Miami initially plans to reopen its campus in the fall. To ensure a smooth opening, the school will use the summer online course period to fully prepare plans to guarantee that faculty and students can teach and learn in a safe environment.
University of California, Davis
The University of California has announced that this fall "every campus will be open and offering instruction."
In response to the pandemic, UC Davis is providing students with the following measures:
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If the pandemic gradually subsides: Students will return to campus for the fall semester starting September 30.
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If the lifting of restrictions is extended: Students will not return to campus, and instruction will continue online.
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For the long haul: The global pandemic may prevent some international students from returning to campus, so the school will offer flexible course options.
Updates on UK University Reopening Policies
University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge has stated that to reduce gatherings, it has fully shifted to online teaching and has clearly indicated that remote teaching will continue for the next academic year.
University of Oxford
The faculty and staff at the University of Oxford are very eager to reopen the university as soon as possible.
However, for now, the university's plan for the summer term (Michaelmas term) is still to continue online.
University of York
According to a notice for new students on the University of York's website, the school still plans to start in September as scheduled, but the specific teaching format and future policies have not yet been decided.
Updates on Canadian University Reopening Policies
University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa is also following health regulations by reducing social gatherings, and has moved to online teaching and held virtual graduation ceremonies. The school is very hopeful about reopening the campus in the fall, but the final decision will depend on the pandemic situation.
University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia in Canada also announced on its website that most fall courses will be delivered online. UBC added that depending on the situation, it may offer a small number of in-person small-group study sessions.
McGill University
McGill University plans to primarily deliver fall courses through remote online teaching. McGill also stated, "Our students should be able to continue their academic careers regardless of the mode of instruction."
McMaster University
McMaster University has notified students via email that except for some courses that must be held in person (such as lab courses), all courses in the fall of 2020 will be conducted online.
University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo issued a statement on its website indicating that the specific teaching model for the fall has not yet been determined. However, faculty and staff will adapt to different pandemic scenarios to help students complete their studies.
Final Words
At this stage, universities are gradually releasing updated enrollment policies. Whatever the decision, it is the result of the schools' considerations from multiple perspectives.
As students, what's most important during this special period is to ensure your health and safety, and to adapt to the new reopening policies as quickly as possible.
At the same time, we also encourage all applicants to actively make use of the valuable summer break for test preparation, remote internships, obtaining recommendation letters, and other background-enhancing activities as well as application material preparation.
Please pay close attention to your school's official website or emails for fall semester announcements. We will continue to update you on the reopening plans of various institutions.
