More than 170,000 current and former students are preparing legal action against 36 universities, claiming they did not receive the full education they paid for during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The move follows a settlement between University College London (UCL) and the Student Claim Group, which is now representing other affected students and graduates.
Legal letters have been sent to the 36 institutions warning that students intend to seek compensation for teaching and services they say were not fully delivered.
At the time of the pandemic, the government said universities were responsible for setting their own fees and were expected to continue providing high-quality education.
UCL has not admitted liability, and the terms of its settlement remain confidential. The case involved about 6,000 students and had been scheduled for a court hearing in March.
The agreement is now seen as opening the door for wider legal action across the university sector under consumer protection laws.
The claims focus mainly on the difference in value between in-person learning and online classes. Economic analysis comparing the two is expected to form a key part of the new cases.
During the pandemic, most universities shifted to online teaching for extended periods. Many students returned home or remained confined to campus accommodation, while access to libraries, studios and laboratories was restricted.
This caused particular frustration among students whose courses required specialist facilities, especially those studying fine art and other applied arts.
Many students said they felt they missed out on an important life experience, including campus life and social connections. Graduation ceremonies were held virtually or delayed, and many graduates entered a job market still recovering from the pandemic.
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