Confidentiality

The staff at the University of Birmingham are unable to give any information about a student either applying for a place at the University or a student currently studying at the University, to a third party. This includes parents, spouses, siblings, friends, fellow students, etc.

This is because UK law (the 1998 Data Protection Act) and University policy prohibit the disclosure of an individual’s information. All Universities in the UK follow similar guidelines and are bound by the same legislation.

In an emergency University staff will contact the next of kin (without the student’s permission), if it is deemed appropriate. This will normally only be if, for example, medical personnel advise that it is required. Students have the option to list emergency contacts during Online Registration.

If you are worried about a student, in an emergency you can contact the University 24-hour Security team. Campus security is available 24/7, 365 days a year: +44 (0)121 414 4444. Whilst, for the reasons outlined above, the University is unable to confirm the student’s identity or attendance at the institution, your concerns will be taken seriously and we will respond to them appropriately.