Charter and Statutes
The University Charter incorporates the University as a legal entity, defining its core tenets, objects, constitution and powers to run itself.
Following the University Council’s approval, amendments to the Charter and Statutes are subject to the approval of the Privy Council.
University of York Charter (PDF 
, 282kb)
University of York Statutes (PDF , 306kb)
Review and revisions
In 2021-22 the Charter was comprehensively reviewed to incorporate several important clauses, integral to the University’s existence for the public good, and in relation to upholding academic freedom and free speech, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). At the same time the University’s Statutes were revised and updated.
Further amendments were approved by the Privy Council in April 2025 and are included in the Charter and Statutes published above
Earlier versions are listed below for information: