How to apply or renew
Registering your campaign
When starting your campaign for Fairtrade status, send an email with your contact details to university@fairtrade.org.uk. We will add you to our database and send you our enewsletter.
How to apply for status
Download the Fairtrade University and College Action Guide here
Download the application form here
Please submit this form by email. This will help us to process your application more efficiently and allow you to celebrate Fairtrade status sooner.
Send hard copy supporting information (eg press cuttings) to:
Fairtrade Universities and Colleges, The Fairtrade Foundation, 3rd Floor, Ibex House, 42-47 Minories, London, EC3N 1DY
If you have any problems or queries about applying, please email university@fairtrade.org.uk.
Top tips for an effective application
Allow plenty of time for us to process your application (at least 1 month) and please do not plan any declaration date until you know that your application has been successful.
- Goal 1 – make sure you create a personalised policy reflecting your university/college's needs and aspirations for Fairtrade and get it signed by both a university/college representative, and Student Union (or equivalent). A mix of broad top level commitments to Fairtrade and more specific actions you will take is a good place to start.
- Goal 2 - work with all shops, cafes and restaurants to get as many Fairtrade products on campus as possible. You don't have to sell the entire range of Fairtrade products but the bigger the range the more benefit goes back to Fairtrade producers.
- Goal 3 – this is a chance to show your commitment to guaranteeing a better deal for producers on a daily basis, and to enable staff to feel involved. Research shows that employees are inspired by working in a Fairtrade-friendly workplace, so make the most of this goal to spread awareness amongst staff and visitors.
- Goal 4 - this goal has a huge scope for creativity and developing your own campaign personality. From wine tasting events to online campaigns, media stunts and using Fairtrade case studies in the curriculum, we're looking for student engagement with the issues behind Fairtrade - trade justice and sustainable consumption. Keep a record of all your activities and submit a calendar of events.
- Goal 5 - you'll need a well represented and proactive group, meeting at least once a term. Make sure students are well represented in the group to keep your Fairtrade campaign relevant to them. Keep minutes of what's discussed and send in two copies with your application for Fairtrade status and subsequent renewals.
Renewing your status
Download the renewal form here
Becoming a Fairtrade University or College is a great achievement but is only the beginning! You need to continue to increase awareness and availability of Fairtrade products across your campus and ensure that new students and staff are aware of your Fairtrade status.
You will need to renew your status every year – we will send you a reminder. In the meantime, make sure your Steering Group meets regularly and keep a record of events, activities and successes.