Exam marking boycott by UK university staff could delay graduations this summer

University and College Union to go ahead with industrial action after members reject offer on pay and working conditions

Students face potential delays in their degree results and graduations this summer after the University and College Union said it would go ahead with industrial action over pay that could result in exams and essays being left unmarked.

While UCU members called a halt to the union’s long-running dispute over pensions, after 85% voted to accept a deal to improve retirement benefits, they also voted to reject an offer on pay and working conditions, triggering the marking boycott starting on Thursday.