TV Licence

You need a TV Licence if:

  • you watch or record television programmes as they are being shown on TV - online, on a TV or on any device
  • you live in halls of residence - your hall probably has a licence covering communal areas but you'll also need to be covered for your room
  • you live in a shared house - if there is a joint tenancy for the whole house you may only need one licence. If your accommodation is self-contained you may need your own licence. If you have a separate tenancy agreement you will need your own licence.

You don't need a TV Licence if:

  • you don't watch or recird television programmes as they are being shown on TV - on any device.

Your parents' TV Licence will not cover you while you are away at university unless you only use a device that's powered solely by its own internal batteries. You must not plug it into the mains when using it to receive TV.

Costs

Colour - £145.50
Black and white - £49.00

Paying for a licence

Refunds for students

If you are leaving your student accommodation during the summer and will not use your licence before it expires you can claim a refund for any unused quarter (three consecutive calendar months). For information on how to do this see TV Licensing - Students.

It is against the law not to have a TV licence and it could lead to a court appearance, a fine of £1,000 or even prosecution.