Appeals
The basics:
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The University's Appeals procedure is the procedure used by students to change a finalised mark or a degree classification, or any other decision which has been finalised by an Exam Board or School Committee.
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Appeals must be submitted within 12 weeks of your results being published online. If you appeal your classification within 6 weeks of July results the appeal should be concluded in time for you to graduate in the December ceremonies.
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You cannot appeal if you have already graduated.
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What can I appeal against?
You can use the appeals procedure to challenge your degree classification or any other mark which has been finalised.
You can also appeal against other decisions, for example if you feel Mitigating Circumstances were not taken into account. In cases such as this we would recommend you contact us for detailed advice.
If you disagree with a provisional mark you have received for an assignment, seek advice from us. We can help you find the most appropriate way to challenge your mark.
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On what grounds can I appeal?
In order to appeal you must be able to show why the mark or classification you are appealing against is unfair, or does not represent your true academic ability. Every appeal is different but common examples include:
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Mitigating circumstances (like illness or personal problems) that affected your performance, which you were unable to tell your department about at the time.
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Mitigating circumstances which your department were aware of, but you do not think were taken into consideration.
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You believe your degree classification was not calculated correctly.
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A procedural problem over the way an exam or assessment was conducted or marked.
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Disputes over extensions or penalties for missed deadlines.
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Problems with the provision of tuition, resources or supervision.
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The procedure
The timescale and different stages of an appeal are as follows:
|
Stage of the procedure |
Deadline |
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Publication of results of Examinations and Assessments
|
Start of July
|
|
Student submits appeal |
6 weeks |
|
Departmental/School Response |
6 weeks |
|
Student submits Concluding Comments |
3 weeks |
|
Decision of Investigating Officer |
4 weeks |
|
The Hearing |
# (as timetabled) |
|
Appeal to the Vice-Chancellor |
4 weeks |
There is a flowchart showing the stages of an appeal visually, which is below. You can also download the appeals flowchart here.
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Who can I talk to about my appeal?
The Student Advice Centre has experienced staff who can advise you on your case and help you write your appeal. If you are considering an appeal you should contact us as soon as possible.
If you would like advice about how the appeals process works, you can contact the Office of Academic Appeals and Regulation. The Office can advise you on the procedures but will not comment on the content of your appeal.
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How can The Student Advice Centre help?
We can help you with the following:
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deciding if appealing is the best course of action for you.
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explaining how the process works.
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checking the calculation of your degree classification.
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advising you on how to structure your appeal letter and concluding comments.
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appearing with you at the Committee on Applications as your supporter.
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