One of the hardest things for university students to deal with is failing assignments, as it can lead to being told that they must repeat an entire academic year. It is very important to understand, however, that failing an assignment is not the end of the world - there are a number of reasons why you might have received that mark and usually you will have several opportunities to challenge your result.
Challenging your assignment failure
Every decision made by a university or college is open to being challenged. However, it is worth remembering that academic judgment does not fall into this category. You can't simply assert that the tutor marking your assignment was wrong and it should be re-marked. There is a formal process that needs to be followed.
The vast majority of universities will already have an Academic Appeal procedure in place. This must be adhered to by the university or college in question, to ensure that all students are treated fairly. Most internal university or college appeal procedures will require that a written submission is made by the student. Once all of the relevant evidence has been gathered, the university/college will then rule as to whether your assignment grade should be altered.
They will also tell you if you need to appear before an Appeal Panel to present your case in person. In some cases, university or college appeal procedures will also allow you to have your own legal representation at the hearing.
When appealing your assignment results, time is of the essence...
You always have the right to appeal the results of an assignment, but it is very important that you act quickly. Appeals must be presented within a specific time frame. This will depend upon your specific institution, but in some institutions it can be as short a period as five days. You will be able to find this information within the school's official appeal procedures. Therefore, the onus is on you to read through the rules and regulations, gather together any evidence you have to support your case and then draft your appeal letter, all before the official deadline.
Generally, appeals are based on circumstances beyond the student's control. Whatever those circumstances are, however, they must be fully supported with the appropriate evidence. For example, if you feel that illness has affected your assignment results, then you will be required to produce a note confirming this from your GP or a hospital involved with your case. If stress has been a contributing factor, such as a bereavement or parents going through a divorce, then supporting documentation will be required to prove this.
How Match Solicitors can help
Clearly, getting your appeal right is of the utmost importance. It can mean the difference between the loss of a year, or even the end of your academic career and being given another chance. At Match Solicitors, we have a dedicated team of specialist higher education lawyers who deal with hundreds of such appeals every year. Give us a call today and we can discuss your case in complete confidence and advise you on the best course of action.
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