UNIVERSITY students are being encouraged to make sure they have purchased their TV licence, with many set to be spending more time indoors due to the coronavirus crisis.

As universities prepares to welcome thousands of students, Covid-19 looks set to impact both lectures and lifestyle on campuses across the nation.

Despite the changing picture, around 2 million students will be planning to relocate to halls of residence and house-shares.

It is thought that many will be swapping their dancing shoes for slippers, as nights in-front of the TV will replace nights out this fresher’s week due to lockdown restrictions.

In preparation for bonding over binge watching, TV Licensing is encouraging young people to make sure they are correctly licensed.

Nathan Chaplow, an incoming student at Durham University, said: “I’m excited to be going to university this month, even though the freshers’ experience will be a bit different this year.

“It looks like many of the usual student haunts are going to be closed during my first few weeks of term, but I’m still looking forward to getting to know my new housemates by watching the latest series on TV and bonding over our favourite shows.”

Tim Downs, a spokesperson for TV Licensing said: “While the freshers’ week experience will be very different this year, we know that young people love the shared experience of television and that it’s a great way to bond with new friends.”

“We don’t want students to miss out, nor do we want them to risk prosecution and a fine. Whether they are living in halls or a house-share, students can visit tvlicensing.co.uk/uni for more information.”

The law still applies to students living away from home in halls or shared accommodation, regardless of the device they use, and a TV licence is required to watch programmes.