TU/e acknowledges that the NS strikes can cause uncertainty. However, exams will still take place as scheduled next week, even if train staff decide to go on strike again. “It’s your own responsibility to ensure that you arrive on time,” states an email sent out on Thursday by the student administration office ESA. The email advises students to “plan their trip carefully” by arranging alternative transport or considering an overnight stay near campus.

Some students feel that is asking a bit too much, as is evident from the responses to Cursor’s Question. They believe that TU/e could be a bit more accommodating, even though the strikes are announced in advance. For example, by offering a second resit or reimbursement for an overnight stay near campus when alternative transport is not available. Still, one of the students expresses understanding for the decision. “It’s a lot of hassle to organize an extra resit.”

Heated debate

A heated debate broke out at Utrecht University earlier this month: students, academics, and the University Council all felt that the university’s policy on exams during public transport strikes was “too strict”. It has since become clear that Utrecht students can invoke force majeure in the event of a strike, but this was not clear in the original communication.

Many universities and universities of applied sciences offer students a resit if they do not pass an exam on the first attempt. But what about students who are unable to make use of this first attempt at all due to rail strikes? Do they have to make do with only the second attempt, or are they offered an extra chance due to force majeure?

According to the University of Twente, that second attempt exists “precisely for all kinds of unforeseen circumstances, such as illness. Strikes could fall under that category as well.” If necessary, a student can take their case to the Examination Committee, says the spokesperson. The committee will then assess whether a student is still entitled to an extra resit. The same policy applies to students at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.

Announced in advance

Not all higher education institutions have a special arrangement in place. TU/e, Tilburg University, the University of Amsterdam, and Breda University of Applied Sciences, for example, do not. According to these institutions, students should be able to plan around the strike. In principle, those who are unable to come to the institution do not get an extra resit.

“Our decision is based on the fact that the rail strike was announced in advance, giving students the opportunity to plan accordingly,” says TU/e spokesperson Ivo Jongsma.