Census 2021 - why all students must be included

We are working in partnership with the Office for National Statistics to ensure that all our students are included in Census 2021. Whether you are in halls, living in a shared house, living with your parents or guardians, or are an international student – all students are an important part of the census and must be included. 

What is the census? 

The census is an important national survey that takes place every 10 years and gives us a picture of all the people and households in England and Wales. The census is unique. There’s simply nothing else that gives so much detail about us and the society we live in.

All kinds of organisations, from local authorities to charities, use the information to help provide the services we all need, including transport, education and healthcare. Without the census, it would be much more difficult to do this. 

Why is it important for you, as a student, to fill in the census? 

By taking part, you’ll be helping make sure you and your student community get the services needed now and in the future. The information you give informs decisions that affect student life, such as university campus bus links and bike lanes, jobs and training. Therefore, it is key that you complete the form for your university address. 

The last census was 2011, so this might be your first time completing the census yourself. Don’t worry – it only takes ten minutes per person and you will complete online. 

Census Day is 21 March, but you can fill in yours in now 

We understand your circumstances may have changed during the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. So, although you might not be living where you normally would be when at University, you must complete the form with your normal university address.  

If you’re currently living at home, you need to be included on your household census questionnaire as well as completing one for your university address. 

Here's more information on how to complete the cenus.   

If you have not received your code, you can request a new code online if you have lost or cannot access your code. Your code will be sent via SMS. 

Request an individual access code

An individual access code lets you answer your census questions separately from the people you live with, so they can’t see your answers.

You can choose to receive your new access code by text or post.

No one in your household will be told that you have requested an individual access code

Your individual answers will take priority over any information submitted about you in the household census.
 
Thank you for taking part in the census.