If you have a genuine reason for not being able to perform well in an exam or assignment, you might be able to claim Mitigating Circumstances.
Reasons for claims might include unexpected illness, bereavement or any other unforeseeable event which had a negative impact on your performance. The University has strict rules about what constitutes a mitigating circumstance. Read the University’s Policy on Mitigating Circumstances for more information.
How do I claim Mitigating Circumstances?
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Complete the mitigating circumstances form.
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Remember to attach evidence to support your claim. If you are waiting to receive evidence to support your claim, do not delay in sending your form. You can submit evidence later.
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Submit your claim electronically via your SOLE page. Assessments > Submit and view claims for mitigating circumstances.
Claims must be submitted no later than 7 days after the exam or assessment deadline. You can submit a late claim, but it is unlikely this will be considered unless you were physically unable to complete the form.
What happens after I submit my claim?
Once you have submitted your claim, you must wait for a response. It is important to understand that you will not be able to present your case for consideration of mitigating circumstances in person. The Committee will base their decision solely on the claim form and any accompanying evidence.
What happens if my claim is successful?
The outcome of a successful claim is highly dependent on the context and types of study. A successful claim may allow you to retake an examination or resubmit an assessment without penalty.
I do not agree with the outcome of my claim. What can I do next?
If you want to challenge the outcome of your claim, you can contact the Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA). The OIA operates an independent student complaints scheme for Higher Education. To make a complaint to the OIA you must first have received a University Completion of Procedures letter. Once this has been received there is a 12-month deadline to take your complaint to the OIA.
Dissertation and Final Project Extension Requests
If you are unable to complete your dissertation or final project by the submission date, please speak to your supervising tutor about applying for an extension. You should then apply via the 'Assessments' tab of your SOLE page, then click on the ‘Dissertation/Independent Study/Project Extension Request Portal’ button to start the process.
Find out more about requesting an extension.
How can the Worcester Students’ Union help me?
The Help & Advice service at the Students’ Union can support students through the process of claiming for Mitigating Circumstances. We offer free, impartial, and confidential appointments to all students at the University and can explain the process, next steps and accompany you to meetings. If you believe you have grounds for a Mitigating Circumstances claim or want to know more about the University of Worcester’s policy, book an advisor appointment.
Confidentiality
The Help & Advice service is confidential - nothing you tell us will be shared with the University of Worcester or any other organisation or individual without your permission. There are rare occasions where a breach of confidentiality may be deemed necessary. A breach of confidentiality will only occur if staff have evidence to believe that someone is at risk of harm and abuse. Further details can be found in our Confidentiality Policy. If a decision is made to breach confidentiality, the client will be informed in advance of the breach.
Disclaimer
Every effort has been made to ensure that all information contained on the Help & Advice webpages is both current and accurate. However, information within these pages is subject to change without prior notice. Please seek professional guidance for the latest information. Any advice given by members of staff is based on the information available and to the best of their knowledge. No liability can be accepted for any errors or misleading information. Please note the Help & Advice service is a member of AdviceUK.