If you disagree with an academic decision at university, there may be situations where you can formally ask for it to be reviewed. This process is often called an academic appeal. However, an appeal is not simply a request for a higher grade because you are unhappy with your result.

What Is an Academic Appeal?

An academic appeal is a formal request for a university to review a particular academic decision. Each university has its own rules explaining which decisions can be appealed and under what circumstances.

If you believe there is a problem with a decision, your first step should be to check your university’s official appeal procedure.

When Can You Make an Appeal?

The accepted reasons for an academic appeal vary between universities. You should therefore check the rules of your own institution rather than assuming that the same conditions apply everywhere.

Depending on the university, possible reasons may include:

•⁠  ⁠A procedural problem with the assessment

•⁠  ⁠Important information that could not previously be provided

•⁠  ⁠An academic procedure that was not followed correctly

Simply being disappointed with a grade is generally not enough on its own.

Is an Academic Appeal the Same as a Complaint?

An academic appeal and a complaint are usually different processes. An appeal generally relates to an academic decision, while a complaint may concern a service or another aspect of your university experience.

If you are unsure which process applies to your situation, your university’s student support service may be able to explain the available options.

Why Are Deadlines Important?

Academic appeals usually have specific deadlines. It is therefore important to check the procedure soon after receiving the academic decision.

Look for information about:

•⁠  ⁠The appeal deadline

•⁠  ⁠Documents you need to provide

•⁠  ⁠Accepted grounds for appeal

•⁠  ⁠How and where to submit your request

What Should You Do Before Appealing?

Make sure you understand both the decision and the appeal rules before submitting anything. If necessary, speak with an academic adviser or student support team for guidance on the university’s procedure.

If evidence or supporting documents are required, give yourself enough time to prepare them properly.

An academic appeal is a formal process that may allow certain academic decisions to be reviewed. As the rules, accepted reasons and deadlines vary between universities, always check your institution’s official procedure before making an appeal.

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