Covid-19 testing

You should continue to take regular Covid tests. The government recommends that students who are on and around campus should get tested every three or four days.

You can pick up free 'lateral flow' test kits from the Hallam Help point in Owen Building or from your local pharmacy. You can also order a test kit from gov.uk.

After your test

Your lateral flow test has three possible outcomes: positive, negative and invalid.

Negative results 

If you test negative, remember that this is only valid at the time of your test. You must still continue to follow current Covid restrictions and guidance.

Positive results

If you receive a positive result, you should take a PCR test to confirm it. Get your PCR test on the same day or as soon as possible afterwards. You can arrange a Covid PCR test on gov.uk. 

You and your household should self-isolate immediately and follow NHS guidance. You must stay in isolation for 10 days, but you can stop isolating if your PCR test result is negative.

Check our self-isolation pages for advice and support from the University.

Invalid results

Invalid test results are rare. If you get one, take another lateral flow test as soon as possible.

If you receive a second invalid result, arrange a PCR Covid test.

Track and trace

Whatever your result, you will need to report it to the NHS via the NHS app. Instructions are included in the home-testing kits.

If you receive a positive result, you will also need to report it to the University.

International travel

If you are returning to Sheffield from overseas, check the FCO travel advice pages and follow the guidance for quarantine and completing a passenger locator form before you return.