Student Appeals Against Academic Decisions

Any student may query or appeal against an academic decision that affects him or her.

The University operates on the basis that academic decisions (e.g. in relation to assessment, examining, etc.) are entrusted to members of the academic staff acting in accordance with proper procedures established by the faculty, college board or department in question. A student dissatisfied with an adverse decision should be able to apply to have the decision reconsidered and in appropriate cases reviewed. Since Senate has the ultimate authority over the University and since it is by authority of the Senate that all degrees, diplomas etc. are awarded, there is always an ultimate appeal to Senate against decisions, including academic decisions made within faculties. However, Senate has determined that appeals on questions of academic judgement will not be heard by the Senate unless, in the view of the Chair of the Academic Board, there are grounds for believing due academic process has not been observed.

The Academic Board Policy on Student Appeals Against Academic Decisions outlines the processes by which students may query or appeal against an academic decision.

1. Students should first raise the issue with the lecturer or teacher or course-cordinator concerned for resolution. This be either in a formal or informal manner.
2. If the student is dissatisfied with the result of step (1), the student may seek resolution (either formally or informally) to the Head of School.
3. If the student is disatisfied with the result of step (2), the student may seek resolution to the Dean.

The Student Appeals Board (SAB) handles any appeals by students against exclusion (not showing cause) under the At Risk policy.