Last updated: 20 March 2026
We are aware that the recent and ongoing conflict in the Middle East may be causing you concern and distress.
If you are feeling affected, you do not have to manage it on your own – support is available.
We are monitoring developments in the Middle East closely and we will continue to update this guidance as needed.
Advice on travelling outside the UK
You are expected to follow the latest UK Government guidance, that recommends avoiding travel to a number of countries in the Middle East. Read the latest Foreign Office travel information.
If you decide to leave the UK, and you are unable to return to Leeds, this could:
- Impact your Student Visa, because you may lose your visa status if you cannot return.
- Affect your academic progress, because you cannot engage with your degree.
- Incur significant financial costs.
Remember that travel disruption could increase because airlines may need to adjust routes and timings with no advance warning, and demand for flights will be very high.
Before you travel, contact the Student Information Service.
We understand how challenging this can be when you want to be back with family and friends – emotional and mental health support is available if you need it.
Support if you are overseas and can’t attend classes
If you are stranded outside of the UK and can’t attend classes, please let us know by:
- Contacting the Student Information Service.
- Completing an online absence notification on Minerva.
Your school will then contact you to discuss the individual support available for your studies until the Easter break.
Postgraduate researchers
If you are a postgraduate researcher (PGR), the process you need to follow is different. Read the support for PGRs affected by current events in the Middle East page for details.
Support if you are in the UK and your ability to study is affected
If you are in the UK but feel that your ability to study is being affected by the current situation, contact the Student Information Service who will be able to provide guidance on the support services available.
Postgraduate researchers
If you are a postgraduate researcher (PGR) and your ability to study is affected, read the support for PGRs affected by current events in the Middle East page.
Financial support
The University’s Financial Assistance Fund is available to eligible students and postgraduate researchers, including those on study abroad or placement.
If you feel it would be useful to talk through your situation, the Financial Wellbeing team is here to help.
You can email the Financial Wellbeing team at financialwellbeing@leeds.ac.uk or book an appointment where they can offer financial guidance, including guidance around the Financial Assistance Fund, if you need to submit an application.
Emotional and mental health support
We recognise that current events can affect people in different ways, and you may be feeling a range of emotions. If you are finding things difficult, or just want to have a chat, support is available.
Our Chaplaincy team is here to listen and support you, whether you follow a faith or not. Our Counselling and Wellbeing teams can also provide professional support.
You may find The Student Grief Network’s article on coping with global events while studying helpful. Student Minds also offers guidance and resources to help students manage their wellbeing when dealing with the impact of global events.
Guidance for postgraduate researchers
If you are a postgraduate researcher (PGR), read the support for PGRs affected by current events in the Middle East page for specific information around processes and the support available.