TV Licensing

When you need a TV Licence

The law says you need to be covered by a TV Licence to:

• watch or record programmes as they’re being shown on TV, on any channel
• watch or stream programmes live on an online TV service (such as ITV Hub, All 4, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Now TV, Sky Go, etc.)
• download or watch any BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer.

This applies to any device you use, including a TV, desktop computer, laptop, mobile phone, tablet, games console, digital box or DVD/VHS recorder.

How much does a Student TV Licence cost?

Am I already covered?

A university halls communal licence won’t cover your room. But you may be covered by your parents’ licence. If you think you are, please check that all of the following are true before telling us you don’t need one:

• Your out-of-term address (parents’ address) is covered by a TV Licence
• AND you only use TV receiving equipment that is powered solely by its own internal batteries
• AND you have not connected it to an aerial or plugged it into the mains.

• If you have a separate tenancy agreement for your room, you’ll need your own TV Licence too.
• If you have a joint tenancy agreement for an entire house or flat, you’ll probably need one licence to cover the whole property.

What if I don't need a TV Licence?

Before you tell us you don’t need a TV Licence, it’s worth checking carefully. We do make visits to confirm that a licence isn’t needed. If you are sure, tell us you don’t need a TV Licence.

What happens if I don’t buy a licence?

You could be prosecuted if we find that you have been watching or recording live TV programmes on any channel or device, or downloading or watching BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer, without being covered by a licence. The maximum penalty is a £1,000* fine plus any legal costs and/or compensation you may be ordered to pay.

*The maximum fine is £2,000 in Guernsey

 

Pay for a TV Licence

Still have questions?

Do students receive a discount?

There is no separate student TV Licence or a student discount. But if you don’t need your licence for the full 12 months, you can apply for a refund for any unused months.

How do I ask for a refund?

If you are going home for the summer – and won’t need the licence you bought to cover you in term time – you may be able to get a refund. Please note, you may need to provide evidence that supports your request, like the confirmation of attendance at college/university and the term dates. See if you’re eligible for a refund.

What if I move?

Your licence won’t automatically move with you. Once you know where you’re moving to, and when, update your details to stay covered.

More help and advice about moving house.

What support do you offer halls managers?

Our collection of resources for halls managers includes imagery in handy formats to print and display in communal areas or for use in your emails, websites or social media.

I let to students. What do I need to know?

We offer detailed information and advice for residential landlords.