Results day can be a stressful experience, so make sure you're clued up on what to do should you be unhappy with the marks you receive.

First things first let's address the one thing you can't challenge - academic judgement. Simply put, you can't challenge the judgement of an assessment board. That said, if you feel that you're unsatisfied with the academic judgement of the board, we recommend that you approach your module leader to obtain detailed feedback on how you could improve your future work. 

With that out of the way, let's talk about the two times in which you are eligible to appeal. Firstly, extenuating circumstances, or secondly, an administrative error on the assessment or exam.

But what do they mean?

Extenuating Circumstances - The University's Students' Handbook of Regulations states: that the student was subject to personal extenuating circumstances at the time of the assessment, which: i) were unforeseen and outside of his/her control, ii) were not made known to the Course Assessment Board via the Extenuating Circumstances panel for a demonstrated, valid reason iii) resulted in significantly impaired performance. 

That covers a wide range of potential situations such as prolonged illness. Check with an Advice Centre adviser if you feel you may have extenuating circumstances.

Administrative Error - The University's Students' Handbook of Regulations states: that there is evidence of a material irregularity (including administrative error), either in the conduct of the assessment itself, or in the proceedings of the Course Assessment Board, which substantially affected the Course Assessment Boards decision.

What Next?

If you feel that you have valid grounds to appeal then it's time to talk to the Advice Centre. Here's how our independent advisers can help:

• Clarify if your appeal fits into one of the grounds
• Explain the informal and formal appeal process to you
• Help you put together a supporting statement
• Advise you on what evidence you should submit along with your appeal
• Monitor the progress of your appeal
• Accompany you to any meetings to provide support and representation.

If you think you have grounds for appeal you can book an appointment by contacting the Advice Centre by email, phone 01484 473446 or in person in the Students’ Union.