Student guide to harassment and sexual misconduct

Every student should be protected from harassment and sexual misconduct.

This guide will help you understand:

• what you can expect from your university or college
• what to do if those expectations are not met
• what you can do if you have experienced harassment or sexual misconduct
• where you can get independent help and advice.

New regulations

We are strengthening our regulation in this area because we know it is something that has a big impact on students.

These new regulations will come into effect on 1 August 2025.

They will make sure that universities and colleges have effective policies to prevent harassment and sexual misconduct, robust procedures to address it if it occurs, and support for students who experience it.

As well as this guide, we have also published the full text of the requirements universities and colleges must meet from 1 August 2025 with technical guidance. 

From 1 September 2024 non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) will be banned where they cover allegations of harassment or sexual misconduct.

Which universities and colleges does this cover

Our regulations apply to all universities and colleges that are registered with the OfS. 

To find out if a university or college is registered, search our Register. 

We act in the interests of all students at the universities and colleges that we regulate, regardless of how you study and what stage you are at in your education.