Decision-making and appeals process

All academic areas follow the same process when considering PEC claims and communicating outcomes to students.

Your PEC claim will be considered by trained staff in your School or Faculty in line with the Additional Considerations Policy. Alongside reviewing the evidence submitted, they’ll check whether your circumstances meet the following 3 criteria:  

Criteria  

Explanation 

Serious 

The circumstances have adversely affected your ability to prepare for, complete or attend the affected assessment(s) 

Unavoidable 

The situation was something that you could not reasonably prevent or foresee 

Timing  

The circumstances align closely with the assessment date or preparation period, making it clear that your performance was likely to be affected 

When and how you will be told the outcome of your claim 

You will be contacted within 10 working days of submitting your PEC claim when you will be advised if your claim has been approved, rejected or if you need to submit relevant evidence. You'll receive details by email, usually to your university email account. 

If your request is approved, the decision will explain what support or adjustments are being offered, such as a deferral or alternative assessment arrangement. 

If your request is rejected, the reasons will be clearly explained, and you’ll be told about your right to appeal. 

If your successful PEC claim affects your progression or final classification, you’ll also be informed of any decisions made by the Board of Examiners after your results are finalised. 

Your right to appeal

You have the right to appeal if your PEC claim is not approved. 

Appeals must be submitted under the Assessment Appeals Procedure as detailed in Appendix F of the Code of Practice on Assessment.  

Valid grounds for appeal: 

  • A material procedural irregularity occurred, such as a decision being made before evidence submitted 
  • Evidence of bias or discrimination 
  • Relevant evidence submitted on time but not considered 

Please note: Disagreeing with the outcome alone is not grounds for appeal.  

Got a question? 

If you have any queries about your PEC claim, speak to your School Student Experience Team without delay. 

 

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