The REF team will launch a short sector survey on 30 July 2026 to gather targeted feedback on a small number of policy areas for final development. The survey follows the conclusion of the current round of criteria-setting discussions with expert panels and focuses on a limited number of areas where the funding bodies are seeking additional sector insight before final decisions are taken. The survey will remain open until 4 September 2026.
The survey will include proposals on the submission of outputs across units of assessment; the approach to equality-related unit reductions in a decoupled framework; and arrangements for Strategy, People and Research Environment (SPRE) for institutions submitting to a single Unit of Assessment. We will also share draft assessment criteria for SPRE to seek feedback on the clarity of selected elements before they are finalised.
The survey is not a formal consultation and does not reopen wider REF 2029 policy decisions. Instead, it is intended to test the clarity, robustness and implementation of a small number of proposals that have emerged through the criteria-setting process. Feedback will support publication of final guidance as scheduled in autumn 2026.
The REF team encourages survey responses from higher education institutions, representative bodies, learned societies and other organisations with an interest in research assessment. Further information, including the survey link and supporting materials, will be published on 30 July 2026.
Find out more
To support engagement with the survey, the REF team will host a webinar on Friday, 31 July 2026, 11am to 12pm. This session will provide an overview of the topics included in the survey and an opportunity to ask questions to the REF 2029 team. Details of how to join this session are on our Get involved page.