Making an appeal

Can I appeal against exam results?

It is not possible to appeal against the academic judgement of examiners if you are unhappy with the grade you have been awarded.  However, the Proctors have the power to investigate whether or not a significant procedural error has affect your grade, for example whether there is evidence you were inadequately assessed, or special circumstances were not taken into account.    The appeals process is slightly different for taught and research students.  Please not that you must not contact your assessor or examiner directly.  You can also contact the Vice-President for Graduates at OUSU for support in submitting an appeal - they can look at any documents you are submitting to the Proctors and may be able to attend any formal meetings for support.

Where appeals are unsuccessful the Proctors will advise you about the options available to you if you are unsatisfied with the decision.  OUSU can also provide advice and support in these circumstances. 

Taught Students

If you have failed an assessment, you may be able to retake it.  You should check your course handbook or Examination Regulations, or speak to your course administrator for more information. 

If you are considering appealing a decision or grade, the first step is to discuss your concern with your college - either your college advisor or Senior Tutor - as well as the person overseeing your work, e.g. a tutor or supervisor.  If this does not resolve the issue you should put your concern in writing and submit it to the Proctors for consideration via your Senior Tutor/Tutor for Graduates.  See http://www.admin.ox.ac.uk/statutes/regulations for more information about how Proctors deal with appeals. 

Research Students

If you wish to appeal a decision made regarding a research degree, including transfer or confirmation of status applications, you should start by raising your concerns with the Director of Graduate Studies.  If this does not resolve the issue then you, your supervisor or your college can make a formal appeal to the Proctors. 

Please note that students have the right to a second attempt at transfer and confirmation if they fail their first attempts.  The rules regarding this are in Examination Regulations .  Any formal appeal should be made only if the second attempt has not been successful.  If you have been unsuccessful at your first attempt at transfer or confirmation, you may wish to discuss your developmental needs, skills training, and any support you feel you may benefit from with your supervisor or with your college advisor or senior tutor/tutor for graduates before reattempting.