In September, the UK Science Minister, Sir Lord Vallance, announced a short pause to the REF “to take stock, ensure alignment with government priorities and vision for higher education, and reflect on feedback from the sector.” That pause has now ended, accompanied by a series of updates. The key points are:
Timetable
The schedule will proceed as planned, with submission in autumn 2028. Final versions of the Guidance on Submissions and the Panel Criteria and Working Methods are expected in late 2026.
Strategy, People and Research Environment (SPRE)
The People, Culture and Environment (PCE) component will now be Strategy, People and Research Environment (SPRE). This component will build on the REF 2021 ‘Environment’ and draw on findings from the PCE Pilot.
Weightings
Weightings adjusted as follows:
- Contribution to Knowledge and Understanding (CKU/Outputs) = 55%
- Engagement & Impact (E&I/Impact Case Studies) = 25%
- Strategy, People and Research Environment (SPRE/Statements) = 20% (12% at institutional level and 8% at UOA level)
Output Maximum
A recommended maximum of five outputs per researcher, consistent with REF 2021.
Output and Impact Statements
Disciplinary statements for these components will no longer be required. However, elements will now be included within SPRE.
Impact Case Studies
These will remain broadly the same as REF 2021 cases. The 2* research quality threshold has been removed and the number of cases required will be reduced from REF21.
Small Unit Exemptions
The REF 2021 exemption policy for small units has been retained and expanded.
Code of Practice
Submission windows for institutional REF Codes of Practice have been confirmed as:
- 2 February to midday 6 February for approval by May 2026
- 11 May to midday 15 May for approval by August 2026
Further information is available on the REF website .
Feel free to contact the MSD REF team with any queries ref@medsci.ox.ac.uk.