TV Licensing

TV Licensing reveals new student research

New research* commissioned by TV Licensing has found students may be unaware of the law for watching live TV online.

More than a quarter (28%) of new students heading off to university for the first time wrongly believe they do not need a TV Licence when watching or streaming live TV on their laptop. With more than 420,000 students** around the UK starting this autumn, that percentage equates to more than 100,000.

The new findings also reveal almost a third of students (31%) think they do not need a TV Licence when streaming or watching live TV on a mobile device. Students are now leading the take up of mobile devices – with 86% possessing an internet-enabled phone - so it’s crucial they understand the law when it comes to watching live TV, however they watch it.

Students who watch live programmes as they are being shown on TV, without a TV Licence, risk prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.

Glen Morris, spokesperson for TV Licensing, said:

Our new research shows how important it is for students to understand the law when it comes to watching live TV. We’re working with universities around the UK to ensure students who want to watch live TV can do so legally and with the peace of mind they are on the right side of the law. A TV Licence, at £145.50, can be bought online in minutes.

In addition, students who buy a TV Licence at the start of the academic year could benefit from a refund if moving home for three full months over the summer.

Nik Taylor, editor of student community website The Student Room, said:

Buying a TV licence is a hot topic for students at this time of year. We see many conversations on The Student Room among people who don’t know whether they need one for their halls or shared houses.

TV Licensing and The Student Room are keen to help students watch the TV they want, legally and anyone with questions about their TV Licence can get a clear, simple answer on the TV Licensing website. Students put off by the cost of paying in full can always opt to pay in instalments.

A TV Licence can be purchased online at www.tvlicensing.co.uk/studentinfo or by calling 0300 790 6113.

To arrange an interview with a TV Licensing spokesperson, or for more information please contact the TV Licensing Press Office at media.enquiries@tvlicensing.co.uk or call 0208 752 6606.

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Notes to Editors

*The new student researched was commissioned by TV Licensing and implemented by Harris Interactive, August 2012.
**UCAS acceptance figures as of 23 August 2012.

This study was conducted by Harris Interactive among a total of 220 students who had a conditional/firm offer accepted to start university in September 2012. The interviews were spread across cities in the UK between 16th – 30th August 2012.