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In England and Wales, you generally have the right to challenge your degree classification if you believe there are grounds for doing so. However, it’s important to note that challenging a degree classification is not a process for disputing academic judgment or simply expressing dissatisfaction with the awarded grade. Instead, it involves addressing specific issues related to procedural irregularities, errors, or extenuating circumstances that may have affected the assessment process. Here are common grounds on which you may challenge your degree classification:
Procedural Irregularities: If you believe there were procedural errors or irregularities in the assessment process, such as mistakes in the calculation of marks, failure to follow established procedures, or lack of transparency.
Extenuating Circumstances: If you experienced significant personal difficulties or exceptional circumstances during the assessment period that were not adequately considered when determining your final grade.
Discrimination or Unfair Treatment: If you believe you have been subjected to discrimination, bias, or unfair treatment by academic staff during the assessment process.
Fitness to Practice Concerns: For certain professional courses (e.g., medicine, law), if there are concerns about your fitness to practice and you believe the decision was unfair or based on incorrect information.
Errors in Record Keeping: If there are errors in the recording or reporting of your academic performance that may have affected your degree classification.
It’s crucial to follow your university’s specific procedures for challenging a degree classification, as each institution may have its own policies in place. The general steps involved in challenging a degree classification might include:
Reviewing University Policies: Familiarize yourself with your university’s policies and procedures for challenging a degree classification. These can usually be found in the academic regulations or student handbook.
Contacting Your Academic Department: Speak to your academic advisor or a relevant staff member within your department to discuss your concerns and seek advice on the appropriate steps to take.
Gathering Evidence: If you have grounds for appeal, gather relevant evidence to support your case. This may include documentation of extenuating circumstances, records of communication with academic staff, or evidence of procedural irregularities.
Submitting an Appeal: Follow the formal appeal process outlined by your university. This often involves submitting a written appeal within a specified timeframe, clearly outlining your grounds for appeal and providing supporting evidence.
Participating in the Appeal Process: Be prepared to participate in any hearings or meetings related to your appeal. Some universities may have an appeals panel that reviews cases and makes decisions.
Considering External Support: If your appeal is not successful and you believe you have exhausted internal avenues, you may have the option to seek external review, such as from the Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA) for Higher Education, which provides an independent review of student complaints.
Additionally, seek guidance as soon as possible. The earlier the better. Our specialist Education Lawyers can assist you in challenging your degree classification.