1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files placed on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile phone) when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work efficiently, improve functionality, and provide analytical information to site owners. Cookies cannot execute programs or deliver viruses; they simply allow us to recognise your browser and store certain information to improve your experience.
2. How StudyMerit Uses Cookies
StudyMerit uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience, ensure the Platform functions correctly, and understand how our users interact with the site. We use cookies for the following purposes:
2.1 Strictly Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the Platform to function and cannot be disabled. They are typically set in response to actions you take, such as logging in, filling in forms, or setting privacy preferences.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| session_id | Maintains your login session across pages | Session |
| csrf_token | Protects against cross-site request forgery attacks | Session |
| cookie_consent | Stores your cookie preferences | 12 months |
| auth_token | Keeps you logged in between visits | 30 days |
2.2 Performance & Analytics Cookies
These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with StudyMerit. All data is aggregated and anonymised — no personally identifiable information is collected.
| Cookie Name | Provider | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| _ga | Google Analytics | Distinguishes unique users; tracks page views and session data | 2 years |
| _ga_* | Google Analytics | Stores and counts page views for Analytics 4 | 2 years |
| _gid | Google Analytics | Distinguishes users for a 24-hour period | 24 hours |
| _gat | Google Analytics | Throttles request rate to Google Analytics | 1 minute |
StudyMerit uses Google Analytics to analyse traffic and usage patterns. This helps us improve our Platform and content. No personal data is transmitted to Google. You can opt out using the Google Analytics Opt-out Add-on.
2.3 Functional Cookies
These cookies enable enhanced functionality and personalisation of the Platform.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| lang_pref | Stores your language preference | 12 months |
| order_draft | Saves your in-progress order form data to avoid data loss | 7 days |
| ui_theme | Remembers your interface display preferences | 12 months |
2.4 Marketing & Targeting Cookies
These cookies may be set through our site by advertising partners. They may be used to build a profile of your interests. We do not currently run targeted advertising campaigns. If this changes, this policy will be updated accordingly.
3. Third-Party Cookies
Some cookies on StudyMerit are set by third-party services. These include:
- Google Analytics — for anonymised usage analytics
- Payment processors — for secure transaction handling (these do not track your browsing)
- Content delivery networks (CDNs) — to serve fonts and assets efficiently
We have no control over third-party cookies. Please review the privacy and cookie policies of these third parties for full details.
4. Managing Your Cookie Preferences
You have the right to accept, reject, or customise which categories of cookies are set on your device. You can manage your preferences at any time through:
- Our cookie consent banner — shown when you first visit StudyMerit, allowing you to accept all, reject non-essential, or customise your selection
- Your browser settings — most browsers allow you to block or delete cookies via their settings or preferences menu
- Third-party opt-out tools — such as the Google Analytics Opt-out Add-on
Please note: Disabling strictly necessary cookies may impair your ability to use certain features of StudyMerit, including logging in and placing orders.
Browser Cookie Settings
Below are links to cookie management instructions for common browsers:
5. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time to reflect changes in technology, regulation, or our business practices. Any changes will be posted on this page with a revised effective date. We encourage you to review this Policy periodically.
Questions about cookies?
If you have any questions about how StudyMerit uses cookies, please contact us at support@openbooks.link.