academic appeal dissertation

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How to Avoid Failing Your Ph.D. Dissertation

By  Daniel Sokol

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I am a barrister in London who specializes in helping doctoral students who have failed their Ph.D.s. Few people will have had the dubious privilege of seeing as many unsuccessful Ph.D. dissertations and reading as many scathing reports by examination committees. Here are common reasons why students who submit their Ph.D.s fail, with advice on how to avoid such pitfalls. The lessons apply to the United States and the United Kingdom.

Lack of critical reflection. Probably the most common reason for failing a Ph.D. dissertation is a lack of critical analysis. A typical observation of the examination committee is, “The thesis is generally descriptive and a more analytical approach is required.”

For doctoral work, students must engage critically with the subject matter, not just set out what other scholars have said or done. If not, the thesis will not be original. It will not add anything of substance to the field and will fail.

Doctoral students should adopt a reflexive approach to their work. Why have I chosen this methodology? What are the flaws or limitations of this or that author’s argument? Can I make interesting comparisons between this and something else? Those who struggle with this aspect should ask their supervisors for advice on how to inject some analytic sophistication to their thesis.

Lack of coherence. Other common observations are of the type: “The argument running through the thesis needs to be more coherent” or “The thesis is poorly organized and put together without any apparent logic.”

The thesis should be seen as one coherent whole. It cannot be a series of self-contained chapters stitched together haphazardly. Students should spend considerable time at the outset of their dissertation thinking about structure, both at the macro level of the entire thesis and the micro level of the chapter. It is a good idea to look at other Ph.D. theses and monographs to get a sense of what constitutes a logical structure.

Poor presentation. The majority of failed Ph.D. dissertations are sloppily presented. They contain typos, grammatical mistakes, referencing errors and inconsistencies in presentation. Looking at some committee reports randomly, I note the following comments:

• “The thesis is poorly written.”
• “That previous section is long, badly written and lacks structure.”
• “The author cannot formulate his thoughts or explain his reasons. It is very hard to understand a good part of the thesis.”
• “Ensure that the standard of written English is consistent with the standard expected of a Ph.D. thesis.”
• “The language used is simplistic and does not reflect the standard of writing expected at Ph.D. level.”

For committee members, who are paid a fixed and pitiful sum to examine the work, few things are as off-putting as a poorly written dissertation. Errors of language slow the reading speed and can frustrate or irritate committee members. At worst, they can lead them to miss or misinterpret an argument.

Students should consider using a professional proofreader to read the thesis, if permitted by the university’s regulations. But that still is no guarantee of an error-free thesis. Even after the proofreader has returned the manuscript, students should read and reread the work in its entirety.

When I was completing my Ph.D., I read my dissertation so often that the mere sight of it made me nauseous. Each time, I would spot a typo or tweak a sentence, removing a superfluous word or clarifying an ambiguous passage. My meticulous approach was rewarded when one committee member said in the oral examination that it was the best-written dissertation he had ever read. This was nothing to do with skill or an innate writing ability but tedious, repetitive revision.

Failure to make required changes. It is rare for students to fail to obtain their Ph.D. outright at the oral examination. Usually, the student is granted an opportunity to resubmit their dissertation after making corrections.

Students often submit their revised thesis together with a document explaining how they implemented the committee’s recommendations. And they often believe, wrongly, that this document is proof that they have incorporated the requisite changes and that they should be awarded a Ph.D.

In fact, the committee may feel that the changes do not go far enough or that they reveal further misunderstandings or deficiencies. Here are some real observations by dissertation committees:

• “The added discussion section is confusing. The only thing that has improved is the attempt to provide a little more analysis of the experimental data.”
• “The author has tried to address the issues identified by the committee, but there is little improvement in the thesis.”

In short, students who fail their Ph.D. dissertations make changes that are superficial or misconceived. Some revised theses end up worse than the original submission.

Students must incorporate changes in the way that the committee members had in mind. If what is required is unclear, students can usually seek clarification through their supervisors.

In the nine years I have spent helping Ph.D. students with their appeals, I have found that whatever the subject matter of the thesis, the above criticisms appear time and time again in committee reports. They are signs of a poor Ph.D.

Wise students should ask themselves these questions prior to submission of the dissertation:

• Is the work sufficiently critical/analytical, or is it mainly descriptive?
• Is it coherent and well structured?
• Does the thesis look good and read well?
• If a resubmission, have I made the changes that the examination committee had in mind?

Once students are satisfied that the answer to each question is yes, they should ask their supervisors the same questions.

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How can I make an academic appeal?

We understand that your performance in an assessment may have been affected by adverse circumstances. You may want to make an academic appeal for the following reasons: 

You were unable to submit a mitigating circumstances form at the time of your assessment

You want to challenge the outcome of a request for mitigating circumstances

You believe that procedural errors by the university have impacted on your results

Important to know: Appeals which are based on a challenge to the academic judgment of the examiners will not be considered.  

In this article:

• Grounds for an appeal
• Appealing a mitigating circumstances decision
• Making an appeal

As stated within the Academic Regulations , you may appeal on either or both of the following grounds:   

Where there is evidence that assessment(s) may have been adversely affected by mitigating circumstances which the student was unable, or for valid reasons unwilling, to make known before the original decision was reached.

Where there is clear evidence that assessment(s) may have been adversely affected by a significant administrative error on the part of the College or in the conduct of the assessment.

You are expected to inform the university of any mitigating circumstances by submitting a Mitigating Circumstances Form (MCF) as soon as possible either before an assessment, or within 7 days of it .

If you submit an appeal which involve s the retrospective disclosure of mitigating circumstances , you will need to demonstrate why you didn't make a disclosure earlier.

If you have submitted a mitigating circumstances form and it is rejected, you can appeal against this decision once you r results have been ratified.

This can be on either or both of the following grounds:   

• There is new evidence that could not have been, or for good reason was not, made available at the time of the submission of the mitigating circumstances form, and that sufficient evidence remains that your mitigating circumstances warrant further consideration
• That evidence can be produced of significant procedural error on the part of the university in the consideration of the mitigating circumstances, and that sufficient evidence remains that the original mitigating circumstances warrant further consideration

The appeals process involves two stages:  

Appeals concerning decisions of the Faculty Assessment Board (FAB). This is known as a Stage 1 a ppeal.

Appeals made to Student Conduct & Appeals ; t his is known as a Stage 2 a ppeal .

You will only need to submit a Stage 2 appeal if you are not satisfied with the outcome of your Stage 1 appeal.  

Important to know: If the Faculty Assessment Board rules to remove you from your course of study due to lack of academic progress, there is a separate appeals process. For more information, please refer to How can I submit a progression appeal at King's?

How do I submit a Stage 1 Appeal?   

• Complete a Stage 1 Academic Appeal Form and include any supporting evidence.
• This must be submitted within 15 working days of the publication of results of the relevant module .

Important to know : Appeals received after this deadline will only be accepted at the discretion of Student Conduct & Appeals. If you are submitting your appeal outside of this timeframe, you should provide a reason and evidence to explain why your appeal is late. 

What happens after I’ve submitted my Stage 1 appeal?   

Student Conduct & Appeals will process your form. We'll check that it meets the basic grounds for appeal, including that you’ve provided evidence.

The Faculty Assessment Board will then review your appeal. This is a team of senior academics who are familiar with your course. It's supported by professional services staff from your faculty and the wider King's community .

They'll look at the supporting evidence you provide and de cide whether the criteria for an appeal have been met.

If your appeal is upheld, the outcome will depend on your circumstances. For example, you could be granted a further resit of an assessment (capped or uncapped at the pass mark depending on how many times you’ve already taken the assessment).

This outcome is then shared with Student Conduct & Appeals and relevant administration teams. They'll update your student record and share the outcome with you in due course .  

Important to know: There are circumstances in which your Stage 1 appeal may be rejected before your appeal is passed on to the Assessment Board for further consideration.  If this is the case Student Conduct & Appeals will let you know including your right to challenge this decision.  

When will I be informed of the outcome of my Stage 1 appeal?   

Student Conduct & Appeals will normally notify you of the outcome of your appeal via email within 30 working days of the publication of results of the assessment(s) to which your appeal relates to.

Over the summer period the university receives high numbers of academic appeals so it may not be possible to get back to you within this timeframe .

However , we will endeavour to do so as soon as possible and try to ensure you’re not unduly impacted by any delays.

We may not be able to respond to emails asking for updates on the progression of an appeal as we will be focusing on dealing with the large volumes which we receive.  

I’d like to appeal the outcome of my Stage 1 appeal

If you would like to appeal the outcome of your Stage 1 appeal, you will need to submit a Stage 2 appeal to the Head of Student Conduct & Appeals.

As stated in the Academic Regulations (see regulation 7.25), students may appeal the decision of an Assessment Board on the following grounds:

• T here is new evidence that could not have been, or for good reason was not, made available at the time of the Stage 1 submission and that sufficient evidence remains that the appeal warrants further consideration; and/or    
• That evidence can be produced of significant procedural error on the part of the university in considering the appeal, and that sufficient evidence remains that the appeal warrants further consideration; and/or  
• Giving due consideration to the evidence and representations previously provided, the decision of the Assessment Board was unreasonable.  

How do I submit a Stage 2 Appeal?  

To submit a Stage 2 A ppeal, you will need to submit a Stage 2 Academic Appeal Form including any supporting evidence within 10 working days of your Stage 1 Appeal outcome email.

Appeals received after this deadline will only be accepted at the discretion of Student Conduct & Appeals.

For help on supporting evidence, please refer to guidance from KCLSU Advice on Complaints & Misconduct .

What happens after I submit my Stage 2 appeal ?  

Student Conduct & Appeals will determine whether the criteria for an appeal have been met.  

Where they have determined that an appeal should be heard, an Appeal Committee will be arranged in accordance with the Appeal Committee structure, detailed in the Academic Regulations (see Appendix A). 

However, if the criteria for an appeal have not been met, your appeal will be dismissed and you will receive a letter outlining the reasons for the decision, and the next steps.  

When will I be informed of the decision made on my Stage 2  appeal?  

You will normally be informed of the decision made on your appeal within 30 working days of the receipt of the Stage 2 Appeal.

What happens i f an A ppeal C ommittee has been convened?  

Where an Appeal Committee is convened, you will receive at least 10 working days' notice of the hearing .    

Y ou will be invited to present your case to the p anel. The Chair of the Faculty Assessment Board (FAB) (or nominee) is normally invited to respond to your case .

What happens during a C ommittee hearing?   

During the C ommittee hearing, the C ommittee will determine whether there is sufficient reason to challenge the decision of the Faculty Assessment Board (FAB) . W here appropriate , it can set aside the original decision and replace it with one of its own, or refer the case back to the Faculty Assessment Board (FAB) with commentary, for re-consideration.   

The decision of the Committee will be normally communicated to you and the Chair of the FAB within 5 working days of the decision.   ​​​​​​

What can I do if I am dissatisfied with the outcome of my Stage 2   Appeal ?   

When all internal procedures are complete, you may request an independent review of your case by the Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education , should you be dissatisfied by the university’s final outcome.

The Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education (OIA) is an independent body set up to review student complaints. It is free for students and deals with individual complaints against Higher Education Institutions in England and Wales. 

Provided your complaint is eligible under the rules of the OIA’s complaints scheme, the OIA will look at whether King's has applied its regulations properly and followed its procedures correctly. It also considers whether any decision made by the King's was fair and reasonable in all circumstances.

Who can support me throughout the appeals process?   

KCLSU Advice are highly experienced in advising students before and during the appeals process. They can accompany and/or represent you during a committee hearing.

Student Conduct & Appeals can provide you with further advice on university regulations.  Your Personal Tutor can also provide you with support during your appeal and throughout your studies.

We understand that academic appeals are often made in the context of very difficult personal circumstances. Our Student Services can support you with a range of issues:

• Money & Housing Advice
• Disability Support & Inclusion
• Faculty Wellbeing Advisors
• Counselling & Mental Health Support Service

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• Our Services
• Academic Services
• Policy & Procedure

Graduate Student Rights and Formal Stages of Appeal

Formal stages of appeal.

Although students generally proceed through their graduate degree programs without obstacles, others may experience difficulties with another student, faculty member, staff member, supervisor or with departmental rules and/or procedures. Disagreements about progress in a program, research, and intellectual property also may be of concern. Because graduate students may hold several roles (e.g. instructor and graduate student), different University rules and regulations, each with its own set of procedures for resolving complaints or grievances, may be applied. It is important to note that those various formal procedures may have different time frames within which the complaint must be filed.

When it is not possible to solve a problem through informal means, a formal grievance policy process is available to guide an orderly process of resolution. The following section is designed to provide graduate students with a delineation of the steps necessary to initiate both informal and formal complaints.

Procedures for Grade Appeal

For information about appealing grades, refer to Academic Senate Student Appeals Procedures .

Procedures for Appeal for Graduate Student Disputes with Graduate Committees

From time to time disagreements about decisions, deadlines, policies, procedures, and issues of academic judgment may arise between a student and member of a thesis or dissertation committee. For information about the procedures for appealing these disputes, refer to  Academic Senate Student Appeals Procedures .

Procedures for Appeal of Academic Disqualification for Graduate Students

For information about appealing academic disqualification, refer to  Academic Senate Student Appeals Procedures .

Other Grievances

The following list includes other types of problems that may be encountered and the agencies which the student may ask for assistance:

Issues of intellectual property, problems specific to research, conflict of interest, conflict of commitment, any other research integrity matter.

After consulting with your mentor, Graduate Advisor, or Department Chair, the student may consult with Assistant Dean Robert Hamm in the Graduate Division, (805) 893-2013.

Teaching Assistant or Associate Employment

After consulting with your mentor, Graduate Advisor, or Department Chair, the student may consult with Assistant Dean Robert Hamm in the Graduate Division, (805) 893-2013.

Research Assistant Employment

Problems (Conduct) with Faculty Advisors or Committee Members

For grievances involving professional misconduct on the part of Academic Senate faculty (tenured professors, associate professors and assistant professors), complaints may be filed under the University Policy on Faculty Conduct and the Administration of Discipline.

Copies of the  Academic Personnel Manual (APM-016)  are available  online  or in the Academic Senate Office, Girvetz Hall 1230.

Sexual Harassment

UC Santa Barbara policy specifically prohibits sexual harassment and provides a grievance procedure for this form of discrimination in Sexual Harassment Policy and Procedure (Policy 1035).

To report an incident of sexual harassment, sexual violence, or sex-based discrimination/harassment (including pregnancy), submit an online report to the Title IX Office by clicking on "File a Report with Title IX" on the Title IX Office's reporting page .

Other Discrimination

UC Santa Barbara is in compliance with all legislation which seeks to eliminate discrimination toward students. Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, and religion. Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. Policy action by the Regents of the University of California prohibits discrimination on the basis of age and sexual orientation.

Any student who wishes to file a grievance arising from alleged discrimination (other than a contested grade) must do so at the Office of the Vice Chancellor-Student Affairs, (805) 893-3651, Cheadle Hall 5203.

Sources and Additional Resources

• Academic Senate Student Appeals Procedures
• Academic Performance and Progress

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• Advice And Support
• Academic Appeals
• Postgrad Research

Academic Appeals Postgraduate Research

The University has updated its forms to be completed online rather than in document form. We are working to update these pages to align with the new forms and provide a document version so that you can create a draft that could be checked by our advisers.

If you disagree with the University’s assessment of your research, whether it be your viva, confirmation review, thesis submission or downgrade decision; you have the right to appeal against that decision if you meet a ground for appeal.

In the first instance we would advise you to consult your Supervisor, Postgraduate Research Tutor or Head of Department to see if your concerns can be resolved informally. If this does not work you have the option of formally appealing under the University's Academic Appeal Regulations. The regulations apply to the following:

• Upgrade / downgrade decision
• Assessed coursework
• Confirmation review
• Departmental action for academic misconduct

An appeal must be made within 30 working days of publication of results. If for valid reason you require more time to submit your appeal, you should email the Student Engagement and Progress Team on [email protected] before the deadline to ask for more time. Include your department and registration number in the subject field and explain why you need more time. If more than 30 working days have passed since the publication of results, you will need to use the Late Submission Form to request permission to have your academic appeal considered late. You should explain the reasons for this and provide any evidence you are referring to

You may find it useful to first read the University's Code of Practice for Research Degree Programmes which contains information on; change of candidature, upgrades, confirmation reviews and academic progress.

If your result has meant that there has been a change of candidature (eg to MPhil), then this status remains until your appeal is accepted and any subsequest conditions are met, eg passing of viva/confirmation review.

Find out more about postgraduate research student academic appeals

Grounds for appeal

How to appeal, how to complete the appeal form, advice related to specific appeal grounds, what happens once you have submitted your appeal, what happens if you are not satisfied with the outcome of the appeal, oia (office of the independant adjudicator).

It is important to remember that you cannot appeal on the grounds of academic judgement, i.e. you think your work deserved a better result, for example if you disagree with the examiners opinions.

You have grounds for an appeal if:

• You can show that there has been negligence or misconduct by an examiner.
• You can show there has been a procedural error by the examiner, or an error in the recording, transcription or reporting of your results i.e. human error in giving the wrong result to the Examination Board.
• You can show there have been extenuating circumstances which you could not, or felt unable to declare to the University earlier, for a valid reason.
• You can show that supervision problems seriously affected your performance. In this case you also need to explain why you were unable to report or resolve the problems before the exam, viva or thesis submission informally with the department or via the University Complaints Procedure.
• Where you have been found to have used unfair means in an assessment and disagree with the penalty imposed by the department.

Your appeal should be made in writing using the standard University Academic Appeals form .

The form should be submitted by email with the evidence to [email protected] within 15 working days of the formal publication of results.

If you are appealing the results of a confirmation review or PhD viva/re-examination, the date would be that on the formal notification letter that you receive from the Research Services.

Here is quick guide, including screen shots and tips to help you fill in the Academic Appeals form.

You need to explain exactly what happened and why you consider this to be negligence or misconduct. You need address whether you discussed it with anyone in your department/ supervisor to try and see if it can be resolved and what the outcome of that was (include any evidence of meetings of minutes, emails etc). If you did not discuss these issues with your department / supervisor, you need to explain why. Please note; you need to ensure that your basis for this ground is not questioning academic judgment. For example, if you feel the examiner was not knowledgeable in your field or you disagree with their comments.

You need to explain what the procedural error was, and evidence of this; whether you discussed it with your department to try and resolve it, if not why not. Again you need to ensure that your basis for this ground is not questioning academic judgment; for example, if you disagree with the examiners comments.

• You first need to clearly explain what the extenuating circumstances were and how they affected your performance.
• If your extenuating circumstances were medical reasons, then you would need medical evidence confirming what the circumstances were and for the doctor to confirm that they would have impacted your performance in the assessment. If you are a patient of the University Health Service, the doctor would usually expect you to request this evidence on a medical extenuating circumstances form . Alternatively they may be willing to provide you with a letter. Please note; if you have been seeing another health professional such as a counsellor, specialist nurse, consultant, you should provide a letter from them.
• The next point you need to address for this ground, is why you were unable to present these circumstances to the department or examiner earlier, usually via extenuating circumstances form.
• You would need to explain the nature of the supervision problemsand explain how you feel it directly contributed to your performance in the assessment. If it has been an going issue, it is advisable to do a timeline or chronology of events detailing issues, and what you have been trying to do to resolve them along the way, e.g. meetings with supervisory team, postgraduate tutor or head of department, and the outcome of these. It is recommded to include any email evidence, feedback sheets, minutes of meeting, annual progress reports etc, to evidence your claims.
• You also need to address why you were unable to resolve this issue earlier eg through the Postgraduate tutor or head of department, or why you were unable to submit a complaint via the University Complaints Procedure prior to the assessment.
• You would need to explain why you believe the penalty/ action was unfair / unreasonable in your situation. If you have any extenuating circumstances related to this, please ensure you state them and provide evidence.
• Please note: under this ground, the faculty officer has the power to; uphold your appeal; reject your appeal; or impose a different penalty/action.
• The Student Administration Service will confirm in writing that your appeal has been received and is being dealt with, usually by email.
• Your department will receive a copy of your appeal and be asked to comment on it. Your appeal and this response are then considered by a Faculty Officer (Pro-Vice Chancellor or his/her nominee).
• The Faculty Officer can make a decision to uphold or reject your appeal. Usually you would receive a written response (which should include your departments comments) within about a month, but it can take longer in busy periods or more complicated cases.
• If the Faculty Officer decides your appeal needs more in-depth consideration, he/she may refer it to Faculty Academic Appeals Committee (FAAC) for full investigation and decision.
• If this happens you would be given the opportunity to submit further evidence.
• If your appeal goes to FAAC you can choose to attend a hearing, or opt for it to be dealt with in writing. It is generally advisable to attend this hearing, so that you can take part in discussions about your appeal and answer questions that arise.
• The Student Advice Centre can help you prepare for the FAAC and accompany you to the hearing to speak on your behalf.
• You will be notified in writing of the outcome of your appeal with an explanation of the decision.
• Your academic department will have responded and provided written comments in response to the appeal. Usually a copy of those comments is sent to the student at the time the decision is notified.

If you are not satisfied with the decision of your academic appeal, you have the right to request a Case Review (which comes under the University Complaints Procedure ), if your case comes under at least one of the following grounds:

• There was a material procedural irregularity which rendered the process leading to the decision taken in respect of the academic appeal unfair.
• Material which the student could not reasonably have been expected to produce at the time of the decision taken in respect of the academic appeal casts substantial doubt upon the appropriateness of that decision.
• The decision taken in respect of the academic appeal was manifestly unreasonable.

The request for a Case Review must be made within 10 working days of the full written response provided in relation to the academic appeal. If you need longer than this you must contact the Student Contact and Appeals team ( [email protected] ) and request an extension detailing the reasons. This will then be passed to a Pro-Vice-Chancellor, or their representative, who can decide to extend this time limit.

Case Reviews requests should be submitted using the Case Review form .

The request will be considered by a Pro-Vice-Chancellor, or their nominee, who can decide:

• To uphold the complaint.
• To establish a Case Review Panel, which would usually give you the opportunity to attend a meeting and present your case to the panel, with a representative, should you wish. The Student Advice Centre is usually able to represent students at these meetings depending on staffing capacity).The case review panel would consist of; the chair (which would be a Pro-Vice-Chancellor or their representative), a Faculty Officer or representative (not from your Faculty), and another member which is usually a Sabbatical Officer from the Students' Union. Papers would be circulated prior to the meeting, which consist of your academic appeal, departmental response and you would usually be given the opportunity to submit a further statement or evidence should it be deemed necessary.
• To refer the matter to be considered under another University procedure, such as back to the Academic Appeals procedure to have an academic appeals committee to be set up.
• That there are insufficient grounds to take further action, thereby concluding the matter at this stage.

Usually where a department has responded and provide written comments in response to the request for a case review, a copy of those comments will be sent to the student at the time the decision is notified.

The University's Procedures for the Conduct of Academic Appeals stipulates that the University aims to deal with Academic Appeals including any subsequent Case Review Request within 90 days of receipt of the Academic Appeal. If this is not possible you should be kept informed on the progress of your case.

It is advisable to use the Word version of the Case Review Request form, and type your appeal, so that sections can be expanded and changes can be made easily.

Section A: Personal Details

Section B: You need to tick the ground you believe your case comes into.

You need to give an explanation of why you disagree with the decision of the formal complaint based on the case review ground you are applying under, and reasoning in the decision letter:

Grounds for case review

• There was a material procedural irregularity which rendered the process leading to the decision taken in respect of the academic appeal unfair; For this ground you would have to demonstrate that there was something incorrect in the academic appeals procedure which would have made the decision unfair, for example if a person closely linked to the academic appeal or from the department considered the academic appeal, or if it was clear from the decision letter that a significant piece of evidence submitted had not be considered because it seems to have been overlooked. These are just examples and are not to base your request on. If you are unsure whether your situation meets this grounds you can speak to an academic adviser at the Student Advice Centre to seek clarification.
• Material which the student could not reasonably have been expected to produce at the time of the decision taken in respect of the academic appeal casts substantial doubt upon the appropriateness of that decision; This would have to be significant evidence that would have likely led to a different decision being made in the academic appeal, and you need explain why you were unable to provide it with the formal complaint.

You need to set out the reasons why you believe the decision given in the academic appeal was extremely unreasonable. You should refer to points in the decision letter when explaining this.

Section C: You need to enclose a copy of your academic appeal and the evidence submitted, including any additional new evidence you wish to submit for your case review.

If a solicitor or adviser from the Student Advice Centre has assisted you, you may put their details in the representative box. Please note: you may only use the Student Advice Centre representative’s name if we have seen and fed back on your form before you submit.

Section D: Please detail the outcome that you would like, taking into consideration anything that has already been resolved at earlier stages.

Section E: You may type your name or enter an electronic signature.

Once the form and evidence are ready you need to submit it to [email protected] within 10 working days of the date of the academic appeal decision letter.

The Case Review stage is the last stage of the University’s internal appeals procedure.

The University’s Procedures for the Conduct of Academic Appeals stipulate that the University aims to deal with Academic Appeals including any subsequent Case Review Request within 90 days of receipt of the Academic Appeal. If this is not possible you should be kept informed on the progress of your case.

If you remain unsatisfied after completing the University’s internal appeals procedure, you may be able to make a complaint to the Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education (OIA). The OIA is an independent review scheme and forms no part of the University's review or appeal procedures. You have 12 months from the Case Review decision letter to make a complaint to the OIA.

Before you go to the OIA you must have concluded the university complaints procedure.

Further details on the OIA, their complaints process and how to apply can be found on their website.

You may also find the following direct links useful:

• Making a complaint to the OIA .
• Eligibility guidance for complaints the OIA will look at .
• Complaints the OIA will not consider .

Academic appeals

Through the Academic Appeals Procedure, we aim to investigate and resolve appeals — effectively, fairly and transparently — against academic decisions made by the University.  The Procedure is used when concerns are expressed in relation to any of the following areas:

• the decision to terminate study or require a student to withdraw from their candidature/or for postgraduate researchers the decision to recommend transfer to MPhil candidature;
• the outcome of an examination, assessment, or placement;
• the decision not to award a degree/or for postgraduate researchers the decision to refer your research degree submission;
• the award, or for taught students the class, of the degree received.

Students considering making an appeal are encouraged, in the first instance, to approach a member of staff in the relevant School. If you remain dissatisfied with the local response, you should put your appeal in writing to the Student Cases Team at [email protected] .

• Download the full Academic Appeals Procedure (PDF)
• Download the full Academic Appeals Procedure (Word)
• Download Appeals Guidance and Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
• Download Appeals Guidance and Frequently Asked Questions (Word)

If you wish to make an appeal, please use the Appeal Form .

Complaints about academic provision and appeals against disciplinary decisions are covered by separate procedures — details of these processes are available on the Student Cases team  webpage .

If you wish to request a review by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Student Education of the decision of the Committee on Applications, please use the DVC Review Form.

Further procedural advice in these areas can be obtained from the Student Cases team: [email protected]

The Student Cases Team The Secretariat

Last updated: 05.07.2024

Academic progress issues

Academic Appeals

Academic appeals are appeals against academic decisions.

Most appeals will be submitted on the basis of: E xceptional Circumstances - in order to have an appeal upheld on the basis of exceptional circumstances, you must have both:  (a) Evidence of valid exceptional circumstances at the time of the affected assessments(s); and (b) Evidence that you could not have disclosed these circumstances prior to, or at the time of, the affected assessment(s). Procedural Irregularity - in order to have an appeal upheld on the basis of procedural irregularity, you must establish both: (a)That parts of the documented assessment procedure were not applied; and (b) That this procedural irregularity, which has disadvantaged you, was significant enough to have materially affected the decision or recommendation made, rendering it unsound.

The academic decisions most commonly appealed against are:

• Failure of academic programme
• Degree classification
• Exceptional Circumstances Committee decisions
• Academic misconduct decisions

Students may also appeal against other Board of Studies decisions but may   not   appeal against the academic judgement of their examiners. Disagreeing with the academic interpretation of the quality of an assessment, for example, is not a basis for submitting an appeal.

If a student is unhappy about the provision of a service, such as feedback quality, teaching quality, supervision, campus facilities or accommodation, this is handled via the   Complaints process .

Related links

Who should i contact.

For academic progress issues you should   talk to your academic supervisor .

For independent advice and guidance on academic appeals from your students' union, contact York SU Advice and Support .

How does the appeals process work?

Find out more about what to expect if you're going through the appeals process.

Once an academic decision - eg failure or degree classification - has been ratified by the Board of Examiners, there is no further scope within an academic department to amend that decision. In such cases, students are advised of their right to appeal that decision   within 28 days.

When an Exceptional Circumstances Committee has made a decision, it can review that decision (for example by reviewing further evidence) provided the affected assessment's mark has not yet been ratified by the Board of Examiners. Where the Board of Examiners has met, students may only contest the Exceptional Circumstances Committee's decision by submitting an academic appeal.

Appeals must be submitted within 28 days of the decision by submitting a  Formal Stage Appeal Form .

Before submitting an academic appeal students are encouraged to read carefully the academic appeals procedures and Student Appeals Guidance .

Any data students share as part of their academic appeals will be treated in accordance with the University statement on data protection .

Students are strongly encouraged to seek assistance with their appeals from the advisers at  YUSU   or the  GSA , where confidential and independent expert advice is available free of charge. 

Students are advised against using private companies to help with preparing appeals .   We are aware of a number of private companies offering the following services: writing appeals for students, creating fabricated evidence on behalf of students, and corresponding with the University on the student’s behalf. These companies, which are often advertised through social media and word of mouth, are unregulated and unlicensed. They are in no way connected to or associated with the University of York, which only recommends YUSU or the GSA for help in preparing appeals.

We are aware of companies charging students very high fees to fabricate appeals or evidence. In some cases, these companies have increased their fees once the appeal evidence is submitted to the university, and blackmailed students by threatening to reveal the fraud to the university and/or the police unless they receive the additional fees. 

Consequences of submitting fabricated evidence and or false appeal information 

Students can take advice on appeals, but they must be   written by the student themselves , be a   full and honest account   of events and, where appropriate, accompanied by   genuine   supporting evidence.

We are aware that in some cases, companies have fabricated appeal evidence, as well as fabricating the events listed in the appeal, in order to try and secure a positive outcome. 

Students who submit fake evidence and/or fake appeal information may be subject to disciplinary action by the University.

The case officers handling appeals are taking active measures to detect and verify fake or fraudulently modified appeal evidence. If fake or modified evidence is confirmed, the Special Cases team reserves the right to  reject evidence ,  reject an appeal , to refer students for  disciplinary action  (which may result in expulsion from the University or other sanctions) and to refer the matter to the supposed source of the medical evidence. You should be aware that forging medical evidence and submitting it to the university to try and gain an advantage is a  criminal offence  under the Fraud Act.

If your appeal is initially upheld, and we subsequently discover that your appeal was upheld due to false evidence, we reserve the right to initiate disciplinary proceedings at a later date.

If you would like assistance with your appeal, you should instead use the advisers at YUSU or the GSA. YUSU and the GSA advise solely in relation to York and have regular discussions with the case officers who handle appeals at York. YUSU and GSA advisers therefore have the highest level of expertise in York’s regulations, while still being independent of the University and free of charge for students to use.

Students who are dissatisfied with the outcome of their Formal Stage appeal have 10 calendar days from being formally notified of that outcome to submit a Review Stage appeal. Students should only complete this form if they have received a Formal Stage Appeal Outcome letter. An online form is available:   Review Stage Appeal Form.  

Update on Appeal Consideration Deadlines The appeals process usually aims to resolve appeals within 90 days of receipt, however, the Special Cases team has received an unprecedented number of academic appeals in the past 12 months, continuing to date. As a result, we are unlikely to be able to meet the 90 day appeal resolution target. Triaging, investigating and providing a considered response to appeals is a detailed and time-consuming process. We have made amendments to the appeals procedures and have recruited additional staff to help reduce the delays to consideration of appeals.

The appeals process aims to resolve appeals (including both appeal stages) within 90 days of receipt. This 90 days does not include days when case officers are waiting for students to provide evidence, during which time the 90 days is paused and the appeal is placed on ‘hold’. Triaging, investigating and providing a considered response to appeals is a detailed and time-consuming process. Whilst the Special Cases team resolves appeals as quickly as it can,there are currently significant delays to the appeals process due to the unprecedented volume of appeals received during the last two academic years. Once an appeal is upheld, the University requires several weeks of advance notice to make arrangements for exams to be set. It is important to be aware of these factors when considering the timing of any appeal remedy. As a result, students submitting appeals in June or July should not expect to be offered resits in the August assessment period. Similarly, students submitting appeals in autumn should not necessarily expect to be taking assessments the following January. The most likely remedy in such cases is to be offered a leave of absence for the next academic year or to be offered repeat study.

Students cannot progress to the next academic year until they have passed the preceding year,e.g. students must pass year 1 before progressing to year 2. This means that any student appealing against failure in summer should not expect to progress to the next academic year in the same autumn eg  programme failure in summer 2024 will mean a student cannot progress to the next academic year in autumn 2024. For example: A student fails their programme in late June 2024, submits an appeal in late July 2024 - the appeal is upheld in September 2024 and the remedy is a leave of absence until autumn 2025, during which time the failed assessments can be taken again ‘as if for the first time’.

Dissolution of the Special Cases Committee

More information on appeals, student appeals procedure, appeals form guidance, special cases team.

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If you’re a new student having trouble, read the FAQs further down the page.

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• Up to five Authenticator apps across multiple devices (Microsoft Authenticator app is strongly recommended but can be another too)
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• One non-MDX personal email address (can only be used with Self-Service Password Reset and not 2FA)
• One set of security questions (can only be used with Self-Service Password Reset and not 2FA).

First step instructions to get started

You’ll see a window appear stating ‘More Information required’ or you may even see a ‘ Skip for now (14 days until this is required) ’ dialogue – Click Next to begin. 

if you’re not prompted, visit the Microsoft Signin page   or the Microsoft security info page to get started.

You must download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app or if you don’t want to use an authenticator app. choose, 'I want to set up a different method' (located at the bottom left of the dialogue box).

Recommended methods: Using a smart phone and computer to register the 'Authenticator app' and a 'Phone number'

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• Apple iOS. On your Apple iOS device, go to the App Store to download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app

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Smartphone and desktop app - The Authy app can be installed as a desktop/laptop program for Windows and macOS; this is useful if you don’t have access to a smartphone.

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The automated voice on the phone call mentions the “pound” key – what is this?

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Student Conduct and Appeals Office

• Academic Appeals

Advice on the appeals process, as well as support preparing an appeal is available from  KCLSU Advice . You can find forms for all stages of appeals in the respective sections below.

Undergraduate and Postgraduate (Taught) students may appeal against decisions made by their Faculty Assessment Board (FAB) on matters such as module results, progression and reassessment decisions, as provided by the T44 Academic Appeals (taught programmes) Regulation.

The process involves two stages:

• Appeals concerning decisions of the FAB (‘Stage One’); and
• Appeals to the Head of Student Conduct & Appeals (‘Stage Two’)

Stage One Appeals must be submitted on this webform within 15 working days of the publication of results of the relevant module(s), sent to Student Conduct & Appeals (SCA). Appeals received after this deadline will only be accepted at the discretion of SCA.

A FAB may review a decision on one or both of the following grounds: 

(a) Where there is evidence that the assessment/s may have been adversely affected by mitigating circumstances which you were unable, or for valid reasons unwilling, to make known before the original decision was reached;

(b) Where there is clear evidence that assessment/s may have been adversely affected by a significant administrative error on the part of the College or in the conduct of the assessment.

Appeals which are based upon a challenge to the academic judgment of the examiners will not be considered.

You are expected to inform the university of any mitigating circumstances by submitting a Mitigating Circumstances Form ('MCF') as soon as possible either before an assessment, or within 7 days of it.  By presenting yourself for an assessment, you are deemed to have declared yourself to be in a position to undertake the assessment.

Therefore, any appeals which involve the retrospective disclosure of mitigating circumstances would need to demonstrate why an earlier disclosure was not made. 

Appeals should normally be accompanied by independent, third party evidence of the mitigating circumstances or administrative errors upon which the appeal is based. It is your responsibility to submit all evidence by the deadline for your appeal, and to have certified translations undertaken, where appropriate.

SCA may refuse to forward (filter) an appeal where:

(a) The appeal is not made on the correct form, or the form is incomplete;

(b) The appeal has been submitted late;

(c) If appealing on ground 7.17a, there is no independent third party evidence of the mitigating circumstances; or the evidence provided is not a certified translation;

(d) The appeal contains no evidence that either of the grounds for review has been met;

(e) The appeal is frivolous or vexatious; and/or

(f) where the appeal does not fall within the scope of this regulation and should be considered under an alternative regulation.

If your appeal is filtered you will have the opportunity to contest the decision and, if successful, your appeal will be forwarded to the FAB.

Upon receipt of an appeal, the FAB will determine whether the criteria for an appeal has been met. Where they have, the FAB will decide whether to modify or confirm its original decision. They will normally meet and communicate their decision, sent by SCA, within 30 working days of the publication of results of the assessment(s) to which the appeal relates.

Following the completion of a Stage One Appeal, you may submit a Stage Two Appeal if you are dissatisfied with the previous outcome. Stage Two Appeals must be submitted on the form  to SCA within 10 working days of the date of the Stage One Appeal outcome letter. Appeals received after this deadline will only be accepted at the discretion of SCA.

In accordance with the T44 Regulation, a Stage One decision may be reviewed if at least one of the following grounds are met:

(a) that there is new evidence that could not have been, or for good reason was not, made available at the time of the Stage One submission and that sufficient evidence remains that the appeal warrants further consideration;

(b) that evidence can be produced of significant procedural error on the part of the College in considering the appeal, and that sufficient evidence remains that the appeal warrants further consideration;

(c) giving due consideration to the evidence previously provided, the decision of the FAB was unreasonable

The Head of Student Conduct & Appeals (or nominee) will determine whether the criteria for an appeal have been met. Where they have, an Appeal Committee will be convened; otherwise, the appeal will be dismissed. This decision will normally be communicated within 30 working days of receipt of the Stage Two Appeal.

Where an Appeal Committee is convened, you will normally receive at least 10 working days' notice of the hearing, and will be invited to present your case to the Panel. The Chair of the FAB (or nominee) will also be invited to give evidence. The Committee will determine whether there is sufficient reason to challenge the decision of the FAB; where it concludes such reason is present, it can set aside the original decision and replace it with one of its own, or refer the case back to the FAB, with commentary, for re-consideration. The decision of the Committee will be normally communicated to you and the Chair of the FAB within 5 working days of the decision.

Further guidance about Committee procedures can be found  here .

When all internal procedures are complete, students may request an independent review of their case by the  Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education , if they remain dissatisfied with the College’s final outcome.

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Academic Appeals

Information on eligibility and how to submit an Academic Appeal

Board of Examiners make decisions on assessment outcomes, student progress and awards. An academic appeal is a request for a review of a Board of Examiners decision.  

You might have grounds to appeal if you have evidence that:

• There were circumstances that significantly affected the student’s academic performance, where for compelling reasons, the relevant Extenuating Circumstances Panel was not made aware of the circumstances through the Short-term Illness and other Extenuating Circumstances Procedure;  
• There occurred a material irregularity (an administrative or procedural error) that had a significant impact on a student’s performance, and which had not been determined prior to a Board of Examiners;  
• There is substantive evidence that one or more of the examiners can be shown to have been biased or prejudiced against the student in one or more specific assessments.

How to submit an Academic Appeal  

Before making an appeal  

Please read Section 7: Academic Appeals Procedure .   

You can seek independent advice from UCL Students’ Union Advice Service. To contact the advisors, please use the contact form or by calling 020 3549 5232.  

To make an appeal 

You must complete the Stage 1 Academic Appeal Form and submit this with all supporting information and evidence  within 10 working days of your results being published .

What’s not covered by academic appeals? 

The Academic Appeals Procedure is not intended to encourage students to challenge disappointing results. 

You should not appeal because you disagree with the Board of Examiners decision – for instance to complain about the decision of academic staff on the quality of your work. This is defined as academic judgement. 

The appeals process excludes complaints against services provided by the University including the delivery of a programme and the teaching you receive. 

If you have concerns that these factors are having an impact on your ability to perform at your best in assessments, you will need to raise these through the Student Complaints Procedure as soon as you are aware that you are being affected by a service delivery shortfall. Waiting for your results before speaking up about such complaints will probably be too late. 

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Academic Policy & Governance

Academic appeals.

• Academic Appeals (students)

Academic Policy & Governance (APG) is a unit formed from the former Senate and Academic Collaboration Offices. (See APG Welcome page for further information.)

An appeal is defined as a request for a review of a decision of an academic body charged with making judgements concerning student progression, assessment or awards.

The University has a duty to maintain and enhance the quality of provision for students and to provide an effective system for handling appeals and  complaints . The University upholds the principle that students should have a full opportunity to raise appeals against academic decisions without fear of disadvantage and in the knowledge that confidentiality will be respected.

The Process

• How to appeal against an academic decision

Before submitting an appeal you should consult your Adviser of Studies, Supervisor, Course Leader or School/College Administrator for advice and to explore whether there is a possible resolution without proceeding to a formal appeal.

The SRC Advice Centre can also advise you. See www.glasgowstudent.net/advice/ .

If you are considering appealing against your final award, you should be aware that if you graduate you are deemed to have accepted the award; if you wish to appeal you must therefore withdraw from graduation.

The first stage of the Appeals Procedure is to appeal to the College Appeals Committee. You must submit a letter intimating your intention to appeal within 10 working days of publication of the decision. This should be submitted to the relevant contact in the College Academic & Student Administration Team. You will then have a further 20 working days to submit your full grounds for appeal and any necessary supporting documentation. [1] Alternatively, if you choose not to intimate your intention to appeal, you may proceed immediately to submitting your full grounds and supporting documentation. This must be done within 20 working days of publication of the decision.

There are three permitted grounds for appeal:

i)   unfair or defective procedure; ii)  a failure to take account of medical or other adverse personal circumstances; iii) relevant medical or other adverse personal circumstances which for good reason have not previously been presented.

The College Appeals Committee Convener will decide whether to consider your appeal by full hearing (which you may attend) or by preliminary disposal (which is held in private).

The College Appeals Committee will consider your grounds for appeal and will take account of a response from the School/Subject Area. The Committee may dismiss your appeal, uphold it or refer your case back to the Board of Examiners/Progress Committee for further consideration.

If you are dissatisfied with the outcome from the College’s consideration of your appeal (whether or not you sought reinstatement) you may be able to proceed to the Senate Appeals Committee. Again there are specific permitted grounds for appeal:

i)   new evidence has emerged which could not reasonably have been produced to the College Appeals Committee and/or; ii)  defective procedure by the  College in its disposal of the appeal and/or; iii) the disposal at College level was manifestly unreasonable.

If you decide to appeal to the Senate Appeals Committee you must intimate your intention to appeal within 10 working days of the College Appeals Committee’s decision being issued. This intimation must be submitted in writing to [email protected] for the attention of the Senior Senate Assessor for Academic Appeals. You will have a further 20 working days to submit your full grounds and any supporting documentation. [1] Alternatively, if you choose not to intimate your intention to appeal, you may proceed immediately to submitting your full grounds and supporting documentation. This must be done within 20 working days of the College Appeals Committee's decision being issued.

The Senior Senate Assessor for Academic Appeals will decide whether to consider your appeal by full hearing (which you may attend) or by preliminary disposal (which is held in private).

The Senate Appeals Committee will consider your grounds for appeal and will take account of a response from the College. The Committee may dismiss your appeal, uphold it or refer it back to the College Appeals Committee or to the Board of Examiners/Progress Committee for further consideration.

[1] Please ensure that any supporting documents are in English or are accompanied by an English translation.

Support and Advice

Before submitting an appeal you should consult your Advisor of Studies, Supervisor, Course Leader or School/College Administrator for advice and to explore whether there is a possible resolution without proceeding to a formal appeal.

The SRC Advice Centre can also advise you. The Advice Centre is an advice, information and representation service provided by the SRC for all Glasgow University students. The Advice Centre offers free and confidential advice on a wide range of subjects, and will be able to offer advice on such matters as possible grounds for appeal and details of the process. They may be able to represent or support you in the event of a hearing.

See www.glasgowstudent.net/advice/ .

The Advice Centre can be contacted on 0141 330 5360 and at  [email protected] .

An Appeal or a Complaint?

An academic appeal is a request for a review of an academic decision relating to the classification of degree awarded, the grade awarded for a course of study or a decision concerning your progress to the next year of study or to an Honours programme.

A complaint is a representation about the quality or standard of provision in a particular area of the University. It may be a matter concerning the advice you were given regarding choice of subjects, the conduct of a member of staff towards you or towards a class, or administrative matters concerning the organisation of a programme of study. A complaint, even if upheld will not result in a change to an academic decision.

External Adjudication

Following the outcome of an appeal to the College Appeals Committee you may have a further right of appeal to the Senate Appeals Committee. If following consideration of your appeal by the Senate Appeals Committee you are still dissatisfied with the outcome, you may seek external adjudication.

The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO) provides an independent public services complaints system. Anyone may submit complaints about the University to SPSO if they are dissatisfied with the outcome of an investigation, review of a complaint or conduct of an academic appeal by the University. The SPSO cannot however consider matters concerning i) academic judgement, or ii) discretionary decisions which are made without any maladministration.

Further information about the procedure is available from the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman .

Following completion of a review of an academic appeal, the SPSO will provide a report of the matters considered and the outcome.

Additional Information

• Key contact - Richard Lowdon (email: [email protected])
• College appeals procedure
• Senate appeals procedure
• Senate Assessor for Appeals
• SRC Advice Centre
• College Appeals Contacts

Other links:

Appeal Forms

• College Appeal Form for students  (Word)
• Senate Appeal Form for students  (Word)

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Academic appeals

Find out how the academic appeal process works and how to submit an appeal.

What academic appeals are

You have the right to contest certain decisions relating to your progress, assessment or award, so long as you can demonstrate that you have valid grounds to do so and can meet other relevant criteria.

Defining academic appeals

We use the definition of an academic appeal provided by the Office for the Independent Adjudicator . This is the external regulator which oversees University decision-making. The definition states that an academic appeal is a challenge to, or request for, reconsideration of a decision by an academic body regarding your progress, assessment and/or award.

Academic appeals process

There are three steps in the academic appeals process. Not all appeals will be eligible for, or need to go through each step. It depends on your circumstances.

Informal resolution 

You can ask for an informal resolution where your concerns are addressed quickly and directly with your School (where appropriate).

Formal appeal

If you have not made an informal resolution request, or are not satisfied with the outcome, you can ask for formal consideration of your appeal. Specialist staff outside of your School consider the appeal.

Appeal outcome review

You can ask for a review of the formal appeal process. We check appropriate procedures were followed and that the decision was reasonable.

How to make an academic appeal 

Find out what you need to do to submit an academic appeal. 

Before making an academic appeal 

Before submitting your appeal, it is important that you take the time to read the  academic appeals regulations [PDF 290.43KB] .

Not only do the regulations provide full details of the process but they help you to understand:

Acceptable grounds for appeal are normally:

• exceptional circumstances that were not known in advance
• a procedural error on the part of the University
• prejudice or bias on the part of an examiner.

However, not all grounds are eligible for all types of appeals and so it is essential that you read the full definitions of the grounds in our  academic appeals regulations [PDF 290.43KB] according to the decision you wish to appeal. 

In general, you need to supply written information from someone who knows you in a professional capacity and can independently verify your circumstances, and from when and how they affected you.

Evidence should be a letter or email. Evidence should be robust, explain the impact of the circumstance and the dates and duration of the circumstance.

New supporting evidence

Where an appeal includes new supporting evidence (for example, evidence that was not made available to the academic body for good reason), original hard copy documentation may be requested before the appeal will be considered. You will be informed if this is the case.

Supporting Evidence not in English Language

If the original documentation is not in English, you are required to also submit a translation into English that has been certified by an independent person or agency. They must provide their contact details to confirm the translation is a true and accurate representation of the original source.

Falsified evidence

Should the Casework have cause to suspect that the documentary evidence provided with the appeal has been falsified, they will refer the case to the Office for Student Complaints, Conduct and Funding for consideration under the Student Discipline Regulation. The appeal will be paused, or the appeal outcome withheld until the matter has been resolved.

Reasonable Adjustments (RA)

If you have a fluctuating condition that is covered by Reasonable Adjustments (‘RA’) and suffer an acute episode or worsening of that fluctuating condition, you are not required to submit fresh medical or other evidence related to the condition. The RA constitutes the evidence-base for such applications.

You are required to submit evidence relating to conditions or mitigating circumstances that are not covered by that established arrangement. Appeals will be rejected if the evidence provided is insufficient.  You should check our  academic appeals regulations [PDF 290.43KB] to see full details about evidence requirements.

It is critical that you understand the timeframes involved in the appeal process and adhere to them. You should submit an appeal by the following deadlines:

• Informal Resolution – can be submitted at any time, but within a maximum of 10 University working days following receipt of the academic body’s decision.
• Formal Appeal – within 10 University working days following receipt of the academic body’s decision or within 10 university working days following receipt of the outcome of Informal Resolution, whichever is the longer.
• Appeal Outcome Review Request – within 10 University working days of receipt of their Formal Appeal Outcome.

Late appeals

Exceptionally, late appeals may be accepted for consideration if there is good reason to do so.

Such reasons may include (this list is not exhaustive):

• where a student has Reasonable Adjustments (RA) in place which recommend adjustments in order to accommodate difficulties around meeting deadlines; this is limited to seven days after the appeal deadline
• where there is evidence of mitigating circumstances that would have prevented a student from submitting their appeal by the relevant deadline (for example, hospitalisation).

Work commitments, holidays, minor illnesses, not understanding the appeal regulations or awaiting evidence etc are not considered to be acceptable reasons for submitting a late appeal If you are awaiting evidence, then you should not delay submitting your appeal. You can state that you are awaiting evidence in your appeal form. You should check our  academic appeals regulations [PDF 290.43KB] for full details of the appeals deadlines.

Check which academic body made the decision that you want to appeal

There are different bodies responsible for decisions made by the University. You should check which body made the decision you want to appeal (this will be on the documentation you have received). Select the body from the options below to find out how to appeal.

Undergraduate or Masters students

If you are studying an undergraduate or Masters (taught postgraduate) course, you can appeal a decision made by:

• Examination Board (Progression and Award Board)
• School Student Progress Committee  
• Academic Misconduct Panels .

Postgraduate researchers

If you are a postgraduate researcher studying a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), you can appeal a decision made by:

• School Doctoral Studies Committees and Research Degrees Examination Board .

If you are a postgraduate researcher undertaking a Professional Doctorate, you can appeal a decision made by:

• Professional Doctorate Examination Board . 

Students at partner institutions

If you are studying at one of our partner institutions, you can submit an appeal to:

• Examination Board at a Partner institution (Appeals Outcome Review only) .

If you have received any other type of decision made through a University process that you want to challenge (for example, a Fitness to Practice decision) you will need to consult the relevant policy or regulation for that process. Only decisions from the bodies listed above are considered academic appeals. 

Get support while submitting an appeal

You can access further support, advice or guidance to help you understand the appeal process. This is recommended as formal appeals can only be considered based on the information that you provide in the appeal form and any supporting evidence submitted.

You can get advice from:

• the  Students' Union  – advisers can provide you with independent advice and help you with your appeal
• the University's Student Advice service at the  Student Centre  (which is separate to the Students’ Union) – you can get advice about the appeals process and regulations.

Making an academic appeal

Find out what you can and cannot appeal and check the process.

Why appeals get rejected

See why your appeal might get turned down before you submit it.

Different kinds of appeal

Check the range of appeals and the grounds for each one.

How long will I need to wait to receive a response to my appeal

The completion of the full formal appeals process by the University (Formal Appeal and Appeal Outcome Review) should normally take no longer than three calendar months. If deadlines are exceeded, you will be kept informed.

Exceptional circumstances  

If something affected your performance in a recent exam or other assessment, you might be able to claim for exceptional circumstances .

Reasonable adjustments

If you have a disability you can get reasonable adjustments for your assessments, such as being given more time in an exam.

You should seek reasonable adjustments before you take assessments.

Find out more about reasonable adjustments .

Doctoral Dissertation Checklist

Dissertations must be documents submitted electronically and prepared according to the specific requirements for ETDs using the institutional repository  D-Scholarship@Pitt . To help students meet these requirements, templates are available to help:

• Microsoft Word  (v1.9.3 updated 10/14/2020)

These templates offer many shortcuts and automatic features that allow you to quickly format your paper according to Pitt's guidelines. The templates are not self-explanatory, however, so understanding how they work before using them is necessary. Ready to get started?  Click here  for ETD format guidelines, template instructions, citation management, video tutorials, and more. Be sure to also review the Detailed Essay, Thesis, and Dissertation Rules which are summarized in the School’s  Academic Handbook .

Dissertation Checklist:

• Follow the  Submissions Steps . For additional guidance see the  Dissertation D-Scholarship Account Info PDF .
• Make sure all pages are presented in correct numerical order and the proper size and orientation; that all tables and figures are present; that all references cited in the text are listed in the Bibliography; that the Table of Contents lists correct page numbers and titles; that  bookmarks  are created in the PDF; and that all hyperlinks and multimedia objects function properly.
• Email a copy of your Title Page and Abstract to  [email protected] .
• Email your completed and signed  ETD Approval Form  to  [email protected] .
• Email your processing fee receipt to  [email protected] . First, send  [email protected]  an email and provide your Student ID, the academic term, and the amount due ($50). The Student Payment Center will post the fee to your account and will then notify you by your Pitt email when it is added. The charge will appear in PittPAY on the Account Activity tab and you can process the payment on the Payment tab.
• Email your completed and signed Report on Requirements Form to your departmental student services liaison. RR forms are located on the Pitt Public Health  Forms page .
• Complete  Survey of Earned Doctorate  and email certificate to  [email protected] .
• Complete the  Pitt Public Health Exit Survey .
• Complete  AAUDE Doctoral Exit Survey . The link to the survey has been added to the "Paperwork specific for Dissertations" section of the ETD website. You will receive confirmation once completed. Please forward confirmation to  [email protected] . 

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Student Complaints & Appeal Procedures

This is guidance to the  UCL Student Complaints Procedure & UCL Academic Appeals Procedure . In this guidance we will set out how the procedures work, and what you can do if you think you have a complaint against UCL, or you want to appeal a decision about your assessment, progression or award. We will also tell you about the support that is available to you.

Student Complaints Procedure

UCL’s Student Complaints Procedure allows students to express dissatisfaction about an action of UCL, or lack of action, or the about the quality of services provided by UCL.   

UCL advises students to try to resolve complaints at an informal level. This may involve arranging an informal discussion with  eith er your  Personal or Course Tutor, the Departm ental Tutor or Programme Leader . You can also discuss your concerns with the  Student Mediator .  It can be helpful to prepare a draft of your complaint before attending an informal meeting; this will help you to focus on the core issues you are raising.

An informal discussion may enable you to resolve issues, without needing to make a formal complaint.

If you are submitting a complaint, you will need to do so within three calendar months of the decision/event which you are complaining about, unless you have compelling evidence why this couldn't be done. You will need to complete a UCL Student Complaints Procedure Application Form  with any relevant supporting documentation.  

On receiving the complaint, the Student Casework Team and Chair of the Complaints Panel will decide on whether to proceed with the complaint and if a Complaints Panel will be required. 

UCL advises students to arrange an informal discussion before making a complaint. We suggest you prepare a first draft of the complaint before attending the informal discussion, this will help you to focus on the core issues. You could also write an informal email to the department you want to make the complaint to, explaining why you were unhappy with their service or actions.

To submit a formal complaint, you will need to complete all sections of the UCL Student Complaints Procedure Application Form to submit your complaint. When doing this, make sure you are clear on why you are making a complaint, and what you outcome you want to resolve the issue. You will need to make these matters clear in your complaint, so you will need to be sure about what these are. You can talk to our Advice Service at any point during the process to get support in putting your complaint together.

The statement needs to be a clear explanation of what did or did not happen. You must clearly demonstrate how your complaint fits the grounds for making a complaint. You should bear in mind that the members of the panel considering the complaint may not be familiar with your department, and can only use the information you supply.

You should include relevant evidence to support your complaint, as it's generally up to you to prove that something did or didn't happen. The UCL Casework Team won't be able to request evidence for you.

Here you can find our helpful guide to completing a complaints form.

Complaints must be submitted within  three calendar months  of the event giving rise to the complaint, unless you have compelling evidence why this couldn't be done.

Complaints concerning alleged deficiency in teaching/supervision and/or unsatisfactory delivery/administration of a programme of study will not be considered if received after your results have been confirmed by UCL’s Education Committee or Research Degrees Committee and published on Portico.

Your complaint should be received within three calendar months  of the formal date of notification of the decision, the award in question or the event about which you are complaining. If there are exceptional circumstances, such as serious medical circumstances, which prevent you from complaining within these three months these will be considered only if you provide evidence of the circumstances.

The Casework Team will acknowledge receipt of the complaint.

The Casework Team and Chair of the Complaints Panel will decide whether to proceed with the complaint within 10 working days. If it is decided not to proceed with the complaint, you will be informed in writing of the decision, giving reasons.

If it is decided to proceed with the complaint, the Casework Team will contact the relevant person or department concerned, to give them the opportunity to respond. They will be given 10 working days to send a response to the Casework Team.

The response will be sent to you, and you will be given an opportunity to comment on the factual accuracy of the response.

The Chair of the Complaints Panel will make a decision on the basis of this information whether or not a decision can be made on your complaint based on the written material provided. If a decision can be made, the Chair of the Complaints Panel will inform you in writing whether your complaint has been upheld, partially upheld, or not upheld, setting out the reasons for the decision. If a decision cannot be made a Complaints Panel will be required.

The purpose of a panel is to review the information that has been provided and to ask you, and the person, department or service you are complaining about, questions about what has happened. All relevant documents will be sent to you and the other people involved in the complaint no later than ten days before the panel meeting. You and the member(s) of staff concerned can be present all through the hearing, except for when the Panel discusses its decision. You can be accompanied be someone, who must be a student or staff member of UCL or UCL Students’ Union. 

The meeting will be recorded in writing by UCL to provide a factual record of the hearing, in case it needs to go to Review. 

The Panel can adjourn for up to five working days to make a decision on the complaint. The panel will set out the decision in writing within ten working days of the final meeting of the Panel. 

If a decision was made by the Chair of the Complaints Panel and you are dissatisfied with the outcome, you have the right to request a review within 10 UCL working days of the Outcome Letter. You can do this by completing a UCL Student Complaints Procedure Stage Two Review Form explaining why a review is requested as well as any evidence in support of this.

If you don't request a review, this will be noted on any Completion of Procedures letter you receive, which could affect your ability to ask the Office of the Independent Adjudicator to review your complaint.

A request for a review may be made only on one or more of the following grounds:

a) procedural irregularity in the way in which the decision was reached;

b) new evidence that was not available during consideration of the complaint and where it would have been impossible for that evidence to have been made available at the time;

c) the decision was not reasonable given the circumstances of the case

The Casework Team will decide on the evidence available whether or not the review should be carried out. If it is decided not to carry out a review, you will be given a Completion of Procedures letter, including reasons for the decision.

If it is decided that there are grounds for a review, it will be sent to the Complaints Review Panel. 

The Complaints Review Panel may request another response from the person, department or service being complained about, if you have submitted new evidence. A hearing may be arranged. The panel can change the original decision in any way it thinks is appropriate. You will be given a Completion of Procedures letter once the review is finished.

The Completion of Procedures letter allows you to make a complaint to the  Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education, if you are still unsatisfied with how your complaint was dealt with at UCL.

Please see our information about the Office of the Independent Adjudicator . 

Academic Appeals

The Academic Appeals Procedure is a formal process where you can request a review of a decision made by the Board of Examiners or an equivalent academic body (for Postgraduate Research Students) responsible for making decisions about student assessment, progression or award. 

The purpose of the Academic Appeals procedure is to request a review of whether UCL applied it's Regulations and Procedures correctly, and whether any decision was reasonable and proportionate.

You can submit an appeal on one or more of the following grounds:

 i. there were circumstances that significantly affected the student’s academic performance, where for compelling reasons, the relevant Extenuating Circumstances Panel was not made aware of the circumstances through the Short-term Illness and other Extenuating Circumstances Procedure; 

 ii. there occurred a material irregularity (an administrative or procedural error) that had a significant impact on a student’s performance and which had not been determined prior to a Board of Examiners;

 iii. there is substantive evidence that one or more of the examiners can be shown to have been biased or prejudiced against the student in one or more specific assessments.

Extenuating circumstances (such as medical or other sudden and disruptive events) should be reported to UCL at the time they happen. If you submit an appeal on ground i, you must have compelling reasons with supporting evidence, explaining why you were unable to tell UCL sooner about your circumstances.

You cannot make an Academic Appeal based on your disagreement with an examiner's assessment of your performance, or against decisions properly arrived at through UCL's procedures.

You must submit an appeal within  10 working days  of the date of the official notification of a Board of Examiners decision or outcome of an equivalent academic body for Postgraduate Research students

Complaints against unofficial results  will not be considered . Formal complaints against the  results of examinations  can be made only when results have been confirmed by UCL’s Education Committee or Research Degrees Committee and published on Portico. 

For Undergraduates, results are confirmed in July following the main boards of examiners, and September following the Late Summer Assessments. For Postgraduate Taught students, some Term 1 and 2 results are also released in July, but this doesn't happen for all programmes. Otherwise, most results are released in November when you've completed your dissertation and there have been boards of examiners, or in March if you've resat or deferred your dissertation.

If you send an appeal after 10 working days, you must have a good reason and evidence for the delay.

To submit an Academic Appeal, you will need to complete all sections of the UCL Academic Appeals Procedure - Stage 1 Academic Appeal Form to submit your appeal. When doing this, make sure you indicate the date of the official notification of the decision and are clear about what grounds you are appealing on. You should also include a clear and succinct explanation as to why you are unhappy with the decision. You must include all matters you want to be considered because you cannot introduce new matters later on.

Here you can find our helpful guide to completing an Academic Appeal Application form [Download]

You can talk to our Advice Service at any point during the process to get support in putting your appeal together.

Your appeal and any supporting documentation will be sent to the relevant Faculty for consideration. This is normally an Appeal Assessor who can be a Faculty Tutor (or nominee), a member of the Casework Team or a Faculty Tutor within another Faculty.

Your appeal will be considered by someone who has not previously been involved in the matters relating to your appeal.

The Appeal Assessor may ask for more information from staff, other students or external agencies. You will be given the chance to respond to any additional information.

Exceptionally, your appeal may need further consideration by a paper-based Appeals Panel and/or a hearing. You don't need to attend the paper-based panel but it is expected that you would attend a hearing.

You can request a Stage 2 Appeal Review, once you have received the outcome of the Stage 1 Appeal. Your appeal must be based on the following grounds:

i. that there is a material irregularity (an administrative or procedural error) in the handling of the appeal at Stage 1;

 ii. there is new and relevant evidence to support the appeal which for good reason was not available and could not reasonably have been provided at the time the appeal was submitted;

 iii. there is a response by way of written representation to the information sought by the Appeal Assessor at the appeal stage that demonstrates that the decision reached at the earlier stage was not reasonable given the circumstances of the case.

You must submit a request within 10 working days of receiving your Stage 1 decision and use the UCL Academic Appeals Procedure - Stage 2 Appeal Review Form

We are aware that sometimes UCL are not offering Stage 2 appeal reviews when the procedure says you should get the opportunity. UCL may offer this if you query it. We suggest referencing section 3.8 of the procedure when querying this.

How can the Advice Service Help Me?

Our advisors can:.

• tell you more about the procedures, what to expect, and what is expected of you
• advise you about drafting your statement (but can't complete one for you), deciding on the evidence you need to collect and putting together a strong case
• accompany you to a panel meeting
• if you are not satisfied with the response from UCL , we can advise  you on how you can take your complaint forward outside of  the university.   

You can get in touch with our team via our online registration form .

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The College of Arts & Sciences Office of the Dean and the College's Faculty Committee on Academic Appeals (FCAA) provide four appeal options to its Undergraduate students. Please review the appeal descriptions of each below to determine if you are eligible. Should you determine you are eligible, please know all appeals must be submitted by the student directly. Appeals submitted by parents/guardians, doctors, attorneys, etc. will not be accepted. Appeals must be submitted prior to conferral of degree as transcripts will not be altered after this date. The student maintains full responsibility for the impact of any appeal decision, especially as it relates to their billing, financial aid, visa status, degree progress and graduation. Appeals will be reviewed by the FCAA and the University Registrar or their appropriate designee(s). A final determination will be provided to the student within 30 business days.

• The Residency Requirement Appeal should be submitted when the student has appropriate justification and/or documentation to support taking courses outside of the University of Miami after they have successfully completed 75 credits at UM as the University requires the final 45 credits to be completed in residence. Examples of appropriate justification include but are not limited to course offerings, etc.
• The Second Language Appeal should be submitted when the student has appropriate documentation to support attending a secondary high school full-time in which the primary language of instruction was a language other than English. For example, a student would qualify if they attended a high school where all subjects were taught in a non-English language and could provide transcript and diploma documents.
• The Retroactive Withdraw without a W Appeal , which when successful will result in the removal of a course from the academic transcript, should be submitted when the student can provide documentation of an extreme, unforeseen circumstance or medical emergency which prevented them from withdrawing by the posted academic calendar deadline of that term. The date to withdraw from a course without a W, which changes each term, can be found in the Academic Calendar and must align with the required documentation submitted by the student in order to be eligible for review. For example, if a student were hospitalized the day before the last day to withdraw without a W and subsequently could not drop the course, they would qualify for FCAA review through submission of the appeal and dated documentation. Consequently, a student would likely not qualify for this appeal if they experienced a hospitalization and were discharged a month prior to the start of the academic term, however, chose to remain enrolled beyond the posted deadline. To avoid delays, please review the Academic Calendar prior to appeal submission to determine if your dated documentation would make you eligible for this appeal. You may find you do not qualify or that it is more appropriate for you to appeal for Retroactive Withdraw with a W. A rationale and supporting documentation are required for all appeal submissions, please know appeals will not be reviewed without these files.
• The Retroactive Withdraw with a W Appeal , which when successful will result in the posting of a W as the course grade on the academic transcript, should be submitted when the student can provide documentation of an extreme, unforeseen circumstance or medical emergency which prevented them from withdrawing by the posted academic calendar deadline of that term. The date to withdraw from a course with a W, which changes each term, can be found in the Academic Calendar and must align with the required documentation submitted by the student in order to be eligible for review. For example, if a student were hospitalized the day before the last day to withdraw with a W and subsequently could not drop the course, they would qualify for review through submission of the appeal and dated documentation. Consequently, a student would likely not qualify for this appeal if they experienced a hospitalization and were discharged a month prior to the posted deadline, however, chose to remain enrolled beyond the posted deadline. To avoid delays, please review the Academic Calendar prior to appeal submission to determine if your dated documentation would make you eligible for this appeal. You may find you do not qualify or that it may be more appropriate to appeal for Retroactive Withdrawal without a W. A rationale and supporting documentation is required for all appeal submission, appeals will not be reviewed without these files.

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A community for people who need advice, feedback or help for their dissertation or other similar academic writings. People interested in helping others with writing or interested in learning more about the topics written about are also very welcome.

Academic Appeal

I just flunked my dissertation by 8 marks and I’m appealing further although there are strict rules to appeal but tbh the feedback given was that I used old studies and did the dissertation hastily with too many questions to find answers for. But during my dissertation period , I had to go back to my home country for a couple of weeks due to personal problems and then one whole month went into preparing for resit although I cleared everything. The problem is I don’t get psw without passing dissertation so I’m just looking for any advice on what points to mention in my meeting with my supervisor for appeal if anyone went through this. Thanks in advance

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If you were unable to attend classes due to a serious accident or illness, and this prevented you from notifying the University of your withdrawal in a timely manner, a Withdrawal Date Appeal Form can be submitted for consideration by an Appeals Committee.

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Olympic Breakdancer Raygun Has PhD in Breakdancing?

Rachael gunn earned a zero in breakdancing at the paris 2024 olympic games., aleksandra wrona, published aug. 13, 2024.

About this rating

Gunn's Ph.D. thesis, titled "Deterritorializing Gender in Sydney's Breakdancing Scene: a B-girl's Experience of B-boying," did cover the topic of breakdancing. However ...

... Gunn earned her Ph.D. in cultural studies. Moreover, a "PhD in breakdancing" does not exist as an academic discipline.

On Aug. 10, 2024, a rumor spread on social media that Rachael Gunn (also known as "Raygun"), an Australian breakdancer who competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, had a Ph.D. in breakdancing. "This australian breakdancer has a PhD in breakdancing and dance culture and was a ballroom dancer before taking up breaking. I don't even know what to say," one X post on the topic read .

"Australian Olympic breakdancer Rachael Gunn has a PhD in breakdancing and dance culture," one X user wrote , while another asked, "Who did we send? Raygun, a 36-year-old full-time lecturer at Sydney's Macquarie University, completed a PhD in breaking culture and is a lecturer in media, creative arts, literature and language," another X user wrote .

The claim also spread on other social media platforms, such as Reddit and Instagram . 

"Is she the best break dancer? No. But I have so much respect for going on an international stage to do something you love even if you're not very skilled at it," one Instagram user commented , adding that, "And, I'm pretty sure she's using this as a research endeavor and will be writing about all our reactions to her performance. Can't wait to read it!"

In short, Gunn's Ph.D. thesis, titled "Deterritorializing Gender in Sydney's Breakdancing Scene: A B-girl's Experience of B-boying," indeed focused on the topic of breakdancing. However, Gunn earned her Ph.D. in cultural studies, not in breakdancing. Furthermore, it's important to note that a "PhD in breakdancing" does not exist as an academic discipline. 

Since Gunn's research focused on the breakdancing community, but her degree is actually in the broader field of cultural studies, we have rated this claim as a "Mixture" of truths.

Gunn "secured Australia's first ever Olympic spot in the B-Girl competition at Paris 2024 by winning the QMS Oceania Championships in Sydney, NSW, Australia," the Olympics official website informed . 

Gunn earned a zero in breakdancing at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and clips of her routine went viral on social media, with numerous users creating memes or mocking dancer's moves. "As well as criticising her attire, social media users mocked the Australian's routine as she bounced around on stage like a kangaroo and stood on her head at times," BBC article on the topic read . 

The website of the Macquarie University informed Gunn "is an interdisciplinary and practice-based researcher interested in the cultural politics of breaking" and holds a Ph.D. in cultural studies, as well as a bachelor of arts degree (Hons) in contemporary music: 

Rachael Gunn is an interdisciplinary and practice-based researcher interested in the cultural politics of breaking. She holds a PhD in Cultural Studies (2017) and a BA (Hons) in Contemporary Music (2009) from Macquarie University. Her work draws on cultural theory, dance studies, popular music studies, media, and ethnography. Rachael is a practising breaker and goes by the name of 'Raygun'. She was the Australian Breaking Association top ranked bgirl in 2020 and 2021, and represented Australia at the World Breaking Championships in Paris in 2021, in Seoul in 2022, and in Leuven (Belgium) in 2023. She won the Oceania Breaking Championships in 2023.

Gunn's biography further revealed that she is a member of the Macquarie University Performance and Expertise Reasearch Centre, and has a range of teaching experience at undergraduate and postgraduate levels "across the areas of media, creative industries, music, dance, cultural studies, and work-integrated learning." 

Moreover, it informed her research interests included, "Breaking, street dance, and hip-hop culture; youth cultures/scenes; constructions of the dancing body; politics of gender and gender performance; ethnography; the methodological dynamics between theory and practice."

Gunn earned her Ph.D. from the Department of Media, Music, Communications, and Cultural Studies within the Faculty of Arts at Macquarie University. Below, you can find the abstract of her paper, shared by the official website of Macquarie University:

This thesis critically interrogates how masculinist practices of breakdancing offers a site for the transgression of gendered norms. Drawing on my own experiences as a female within the male-dominated breakdancing scene in Sydney, first as a spectator, then as an active crew member, this thesis questions why so few female participants engage in this creative space, and how breakdancing might be the space to displace and deterritorialise gender. I use analytic autoetthnography and interviews with scene members in collaboration with theoretical frameworks offered by Deleuze and Guttari, Butler, Bourdieu and other feminist and post-structuralist philosophers, to critically examine how the capacities of bodies are constituted and shaped in Sydney's breakdancing scene, and to also locate the potentiality for moments of transgression. In other words, I conceptualize the breaking body as not a 'body' constituted through regulations and assumptions, but as an assemblage open to new rhizomatic connections. Breaking is a space that embraces difference, whereby the rituals of the dance not only augment its capacity to deterritorialize the body, but also facilitate new possibilities for performativities beyond the confines of dominant modes of thought and normative gender construction. Consequently, this thesis attempts to contribute to what I perceive as a significant gap in scholarship on hip-hop, breakdancing, and autoethnographic explorations of Deleuze-Guattarian theory.

In a response to online criticism of her Olympics performance, Gunn wrote on her Instagram profile: "Don't be afraid to be different, go out there and represent yourself, you never know where that's gonna take you":

We have recently investigated other 2024 Paris Olympics' -related rumors, such as:

• Lifeguards Are Present at Olympic Swimming Competitions?
• Hobby Lobby Pulled $50M in Ads from 2024 Paris Olympics?
• 2024 Paris Olympics Are 'Lowest-Rated' Games in Modern History?

Gunn, Rachael Louise. Deterritorializing Gender in Sydney's Breakdancing Scene: A B-Girl's Experience of B-Boying. 2022. Macquarie University, thesis. figshare.mq.edu.au, https://doi.org/10.25949/19433291.v1.

---. Deterritorializing Gender in Sydney's Breakdancing Scene: A B-Girl's Experience of B-Boying. 2022. Macquarie University, thesis. figshare.mq.edu.au, https://doi.org/10.25949/19433291.v1.

Ibrahim, Nur. "Lifeguards Are Present at Olympic Swimming Competitions?" Snopes, 8 Aug. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/lifeguards-paris-olympics-swimming/.

"Olympic Breaking: Criticism of Viral Breakdancer Rachael Gunn - Raygun - Condemned by Australia Team." BBC Sport, 10 Aug. 2024, https://www.bbc.com/sport/olympics/articles/c2dgxp5n3rlo.

ORCID. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1069-4021. Accessed 12 Aug. 2024.

Paris 2024. https://olympics.com/en/paris-2024/athlete/-raygun_1940107. Accessed 12 Aug. 2024.

Saunders, Grant Leigh, and Rachael Gunn. "Australia." Global Hip Hop Studies, vol. 3, no. 1–2, Dec. 2023, pp. 23–32. Macquarie University, https://doi.org/10.1386/ghhs_00060_1.

Wazer, Caroline. "2024 Paris Olympics Are 'Lowest-Rated' Games in Modern History?" Snopes, 1 Aug. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/paris-olympics-lowest-rated-games/.

---. "Hobby Lobby Pulled $50M in Ads from 2024 Paris Olympics?" Snopes, 8 Aug. 2024, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/olympics-hobby-lobby-ads/.

By Aleksandra Wrona

Aleksandra Wrona is a reporting fellow for Snopes, based in the Warsaw, Poland, area.

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Dissertation Printing and Binding | Types & Comparison 

Table of Contents

Once you have the final copy of your dissertation in your hands, all thoroughly proofread and reviewed intensely, the next step is to have it printed and bound. The dissertation printing and binding process is to be taken seriously since no one would want their years of hard work and toil to be seen as a shabby and poorly produced product. So before you rush out to get it printed, always ensure the institutional guidelines on how the dissertation is to be printed and bound are strictly followed.  

In this article, we will look at the dissertation printing and binding process, the final box that is to be ticked in the research journey. The critical aspect of this final step is for you to make the appropriate choice in terms of the type of binding and printing options you will use.  

Types of Dissertation Binding  

Spending some time reviewing the binding options available is a great way to begin. Align your choice with the university requirements first, then start exploring binding possibilities. Remember to keep in mind factors like binding quality, durability, how professional it will appear, and the costs involved. Below are some of the common types of dissertation binding that one can consider. 

• Spiral binding : This type of dissertation binding is perfect for undergraduate or graduate students working on tight budgets as it is relatively inexpensive. Plastic or metal coils are used here to bind pages together (choices of color may be available), and the final output is straightforward to handle and read, given the flat opening that makes browsing through hassle-free.  
• Hardback binding : Students can choose this kind of binding for their final dissertation submission. It gives your dissertation a professional look. With hardcovers on the front and back, one can also try various kinds of lettering to make it more impactful. 
• Paperback binding : This option can be considered for informal submissions. Though it costs less than hardback binding, good quality, and flexible light covers can create a clean and professional appearance.  
• Thermal binding : Here, the binding is done with a transparent cover that highlights the dissertation’s title page. It has a professional look, is solid and reliable, and has color options. 
• Comb binding : This kind of binding is recommended for draft versions and costs less than a spiral binding option. It allows pages to be removed or added and comes with a transparent front and back cover.  

Dissertation Printing Options   

• Color or black and white: Before deciding on the colour option, check if your department or institution has laid out any guidelines in this regard. If it’s not specified, weigh in which one colour or a combination will make your dissertation visually appealing. Color printing tends to be expensive, and an overuse of colors can be overwhelming and distracting. So, use colour wisely and only where required – for graphs or figures, for example. 
• Single or double-sided: University guidelines should be the foremost factor in deciding to opt for single-sided or double-sided printing. The latter is obviously cheaper. However, take care to ensure that the title page, acknowledgments, table of contents, abstract, and bibliography start on fresh pages. Similarly, new chapters should also begin on the front side of the paper. You also need to consider the difficulty in comparing images and graphs referred to in the text if these appear on either side of a page. 
• Layout: Check departmental guidelines on the layout and margin requirements. Usually, a 2.5 cm margin on the side is required to make allowance for binding. 
• Paper weight: The paper should not be so thin that the print is visible on the other side, nor should it be too thick. For better quality output, consider using a paper weight of 100gsm. 
• Number of copies: Depending on your department guidelines, you may have to submit one to three copies of your dissertation. Hence, three to five copies are usually printed. 

Things to check before printing dissertations

Before printing your dissertation, make sure to do some final checks, as listed below. 

• Ensure that your document is saved in PDF file format: PDF files are usually accepted by thesis printing services. Hence, by keeping your dissertation in pdf file format beforehand, you can check for any discrepancies or errors that may arise during conversion.
• Proofread your dissertation: This is crucial to eliminate any grammatical or language errors, misspelled words, or incomplete sentences that may have been overlooked.
• Review the tables, graphs, and any other visual elements: Formatting can affect the layout of tables and graphs. So, cross-check visuals, ensure correct labeling, and check if they correspond to the information in the text. Also, ensure that the images are of high quality.
• Check with the printing services beforehand: It is always helpful to check ahead with printing service providers on the time and cost of printing and binding. Also, check with your department for any formalities to be completed while submitting the printed dissertation. This allows you to plan things well in advance. 

There are many types and options for students to choose from when it comes to printing and binding dissertations. However, as highlighted above, it is essential to be aware of the institution’s requirements and guidelines before it proceeds. 

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Admissions Appeal Information

UC Santa Cruz Undergraduate Admissions Appeal Policy

January 31, 2024  

Appealing a decision or deadline is an option available to applicants.  There are no interviews.

Please read the information below carefully and submit whatever is required for the specific type of appeal indicated.

All appeals are to be submitted online as described below. Questions may be directed to the Undergraduate Admissions at  (831) 459-4008.

Notification of appeal decisions to the student will be done via the MyUCSC portal and/or email (personal and UCSC), as stated in each section below. All appeal requests will be reviewed thoroughly. All appeal decisions are considered final.

Appeal Policy

The following contains the UC Santa Cruz policy regarding consideration for the appeal of undergraduate admissions as established by the UC Santa Cruz Division of the Academic Senate’s Committee on Admissions and Financial Aid (CAFA). CAFA wishes to ensure that UC Santa Cruz and the Office of Undergraduate Admissions (UA) continue to provide equity in the treatment of all undergraduate applicants and admitted students, both as potential first-year and transfer students. This essential tenet is at the core of all CAFA policy and guidelines concerning undergraduate admissions. CAFA will continue to work closely with Undergraduate Admissions each year to ensure appeals processes are reviewed and updated as needed.

Students, used broadly to refer to prospective students, applicants, admitted students, and enrolled students, who have had their admission denied, cancelled, or who have received a notice of intent to cancel by Undergraduate Admissions, may  appeal the  decision as detailed in this policy. This policy has been approved by the Academic Senate Committee on Admissions and Financial Aid (CAFA), which has purview over the conditions for undergraduate admission to UC Santa Cruz.

Any appeal that deals with a matter under the purview of Undergraduate Admissions (missed deadlines, academic shortfalls, falsification) must be submitted online and by the listed deadline to Undergraduate Admissions. Appeals that are directed to other UC Santa Cruz offices or personnel will not be considered. Appeals received from other parties, such as relatives, friends, or advocates, will be returned with reference to this policy and without reference to the status of the prospective student, including whether or not that student applied to UC Santa Cruz.

University personnel will not discuss appeals in person, by email, by telephone, or any other means of communication, with any individual other than the student, unless that student has previously, and individually, agreed in writing to such discussion related to a specific item ( Authorization to Release Education Record Information ).

Admissions records are covered by the California Information Practices Act and University of California policies related to undergraduate applicants for admission, which UC Santa Cruz follows at all times. Please refer to the link from our sister campus, UC I rvine .

All appeals must be submitted according to the requirements and within the time frames specified in this policy.  Appeals do not include interviews, but questions may be directed to Undergraduate Admissions at (831) 459-4008.  Notification of appeal decisions will be by the MyUCSC portal and/or the email on file for the student. 

The physical presence on campus of the prospective student (or enrolled student) or advocates of the prospective student (or enrolled student) will not influence the outcome of the appeal. However, the timing of either a cancellation, or intent to cancel, will depend on the academic calendar, as noted below. 

The requirements of this appeals policy will be rigorously applied. The student presenting an appeal has the full burden of satisfying the standards and criteria set forth in this document. All appeal requests will be reviewed thoroughly. All appeal decisions are final. There are no additional levels of appeal, other than continuing students who may be referred to Student Conduct due to falsification.  All appeal decisions are final. There are no additional levels of appeal, other than continuing students who may be referred to Student Conduct due to falsification.

Appeal of Admission Cancellation or Notice of Intent to Cancel

Admission cancellation or a Notice of Intent to Cancel occurs when students fail to meet the requirements of the Conditions of Admission Contract. In most cases, but not all cases, this falls in one of three categories: (1) missed deadline ( e.g., official records are not received by a required date, did not submit a complete Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) by the deadline); (2) academic performance shortfall ( e.g ., an unapproved change in planned academic course occurs or performance within the approved course schedule is below expectations); and (3) falsification of applicant information. 

Admission cancellation results in the termination of a student’s admission and enrollment, as well as related privileges, including housing and the ability to participate in other University programs and activities.

Notice of Admission Cancellation (Prior to August 25 (fall) or December 1 (winter)) 

When an issue is discovered prior to August 25 for fall term or December 1 for winter term, and the student has completed the orientation courses and/or enrolled, reflecting the intent to attend: 

● Undergraduate Admissions shall notify the student of the cancellation of their admission via their personal email address on record. 

● The student has 14 calendar days from the date of the cancellation notice to submit an appeal  (for best results, please use a laptop/desktop to submit the form, not a mobile device). 

● Submission of an appeal does not guarantee that the student’s admission will be reinstated. 

An exception to the Notice of Admissions Cancellation: Students enrolled in any UC Santa Cruz summer coursework, including Summer Edge, shall be issued an Intent to Cancel Notice.

Notice of Intent to Cancel (August 25 (fall) and December 1 (winter) or after) 

When an issue is discovered beginning August 25 for fall term or December 1 for winter term, and the student has completed the orientation courses and/or enrolled, reflecting the intent to attend: 

● Undergraduate Admissions shall contact the student via personal and UCSC email requesting to review the issue prior to taking action. If the issue is not resolved during this process, the student will receive a formal Notice of Intent to Cancel and have 7 calendar days from the date of notice, excluding official University holidays, to submit an appeal. A late appeal will not be accepted. 

● If the student fails to appeal within 7 days , the student will be cancelled. This action will impact a student’s financial aid and scholarships, housing, and immigration status for international students on a visa. A late appeal will not be accepted. 

Appeal Deadline: For an appeal of admission cancellation, students will have 14 calendar days from the date the cancellation notice is sent to the individual’s personal email. For a Notice of Intent to Cancel, the student will have 7 days from the date the notice is sent to the individual's personal and UCSC email currently on file. 

Appeal Transmittal: An appeal of admission cancellation or Notice of Intent to Cancel must be submitted online  (for best results, please use a laptop/desktop to submit the form, not a mobile device).  Official records (transcripts and/or exam scores) required in appeal cases involving a missed deadline must be submitted as described in the section below. 

Appeal Content: Discussed below for the three most common categories. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure a complete appeal. Any clarification questions can be directed to Undergraduate Admissions at (831) 459-4008. The Cancellation Appeals Review Committee (CARC) may deny an appeal due to lack of completeness or if submitted after the deadline. 

Appeal Review: The Committee on Admissions and Financial Aid (CAFA) delegates to the CARC the authority to consider and act upon appeals of admission cancellation or Notice of Intent to Cancel. 

Transfer student appeals that include non-completion of major preparation requirements will be decided in collaboration with the major program. 

The CARC is normally composed of the Associate Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Management (Chair) and one or two CAFA faculty representatives. The CAFA chair will be consulted as needed.

Appeal Considerations: Discussed below for the three most common categories. Appeals are expected to contain any required official records, (including high school/college transcripts and test scores), as well as any relevant official documentation, and submitted by the appeal deadline. Relevant official records or documentation includes, but is not limited to, outstanding official records; updated official transcripts with grade changes; and supporting letters from teachers, counselors, and/or doctors. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure a complete appeal. Incomplete appeals will not be reviewed. Any clarification questions can be directed to (831) 459-4008. The CARC may deny an appeal due to incompleteness or if submitted after the deadline. 

Appeal Outcomes: The appeal may be granted or denied. If an admission cancellation appeal is granted, the student’s admission will be reinstated. For Intent to Cancel cases that are denied, the student will be cancelled. In rare cases, CARC may allow the student to complete the term and/or apply for readmission. 

Freshman applicants whose appeal is denied are encouraged to apply, if eligible, as transfer students in a future year. In rare cases, entry or reentry during a later quarter may be provided as an option for transfer students. In cases of falsification, the University of California Office of the President and all University of California campuses will be notified of the falsification, making future enrollment at any University of California campus unlikely. 

Appeal Response: The decision regarding a student’s complete cancellation appeal will normally be communicated within 14 to 28 calendar days by email. In rare circumstances when additional information is required, or resolution of the appeal review may take longer, Undergraduate Admissions will inform the student of this within 28 calendar days of the receipt of the appeal.

It is the expectation of the Committee on Admissions and Financial Aid (CAFA) that admitted students meet all established deadlines. Failure to adhere to all deadlines, especially those outlined in the acceptance process and the Conditions of Admission Contract, will result in the cancellation of an applicant’s admission.

Missed Deadline Appeal Content: The student must include a statement explaining why the deadline was missed, and ensure that all missing official record(s) ( e.g ., official transcripts and relevant test scores) are received by Undergraduate Admissions by the appeal deadline. The appeal, official records, and relevant documentation supporting the effort to submit records prior to the missed deadline, must be received by the appeal deadline. 

Submission of official records: An official transcript is one that is sent directly to Undergraduate Admissions from the institution in a sealed envelope or electronically with appropriate identifying information and authorized signature.

Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Duolingo English Test (DET), or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam results must be submitted directly to Undergraduate Admissions (UA) from the testing agencies. 

Missed Deadline Appeal Considerations: The CARC will evaluate the merit of the appeal based on new and compelling information brought forth by the applicant. In determining the outcome of the appeal, the CARC will consider a variety of factors, including but not limited to, contributing factors truly outside of the student’s control, documentation ( e.g ., copy of certified or registered mail receipt, proof of delivery, transcript request) indicating the timely request for missing information by the student prior to the deadline, and any error on the part of UA. If the applicant did not make a sufficiently timely effort to meet the deadline for official records, the CARC may deny the appeal.

It is the expectation of the CAFA that applicants maintain their planned course of study and perform satisfactorily in those courses as explicitly stated in the Conditions of Admission Contract. Academic verification is conducted on all new students in accordance with the UC Board of Admissions and Relations with Schools Guidelines for Implementation of University Policy on Academic Verification , per UC Regents Policy on Undergraduate Admissions: 2102 .

Academic Performance Shortfall Appeal Content: The student must include a statement explaining the poor performance. Any documentation relevant to the particular circumstances of the academic shortfall, if it exists, must be submitted along with the appeal. Appeals are expected to contain any required academic records, including high school/college transcripts and test scores (unofficial copies are acceptable if official copies have already been submitted and received by UA prior to the cancellation notice), as well as any relevant official documentation, and submitted by the appeal deadline.

Academic Performance Shortfall Appeal Considerations: The CARC will consider a variety of factors, including but not limited to, new and compelling information relevant to the specific academic shortfall(s); the nature, severity. and timing of the shortfall(s) in the context of the performance and rigor of other courses; implication for likelihood of success; and any error on the part of UA.

The Committee on Admissions and Financial Aid (CAFA), and the University of California system as a whole, considers the integrity of the admissions process to be of the utmost importance. Applicants are expected to complete their University of California application completely and accurately, and the veracity of that information is at the core of all admissions decisions. This expectation pertains to all academic records , regardless of how far in the past or where (domestic or international) the record was created, and includes any and all transcript notations (e.g., incompletes, withdrawals, etc . ). In cases where an applicant has submitted incomplete or inaccurate information on their University of California application, the matter will be treated as a case of falsification. Per the University of California Policy on Student Conduct and Discipline , substantiated falsification may be the cause for denial of admission, or withdrawal of an admission offer, registration cancellation, expulsion, or revocation of a University of California degree, regardless of whether the misrepresented information or data are used in an admissions decision. Any student conduct outcome (formerly sanction) imposed will be appropriate to the violation, taking into consideration the context and seriousness of the violation.

Students cancelled for falsification based on the University of California system-wide verification process must appeal to the University of California Office of the President.  This pre-admission verification process includes: academic history, awards and honors, volunteer and community service, education preparation programs, coursework other than a-g, extracurricular activities, personal insight questions (including plagiarism check), and work experience. Additional details can be located in the UC Quick Reference Guide located on the UC website for counselors . Falsified application information may include but is not limited to: making inaccurate statements on the application, withholding information requested on the application, giving false information, or submitting fraudulent or falsified documents in support of an admissions application  — see the University of California Statement of Application Integrity .

Falsification Appeal Content: The student must include a statement including relevant information as to why the cancellation is inappropriate. Any supporting documentation that has direct bearing on the case must be included. Appeals are expected to contain any required academic records, including high school/college transcripts and test scores (unofficial copies are acceptable if official copies have already been submitted and received by Admissions prior to the cancellation notice), as well as any relevant official documentation, and submitted by the appeal deadline.

Falsification Appeal Considerations: The CARC will consider a variety of factors, including but not limited to, new and compelling information and the nature, severity, and timing of the falsification. The CARC may consult with other UC Santa Cruz officials, such as College Provosts, Office of Conduct and Community Standards, and the Office of Campus Counsel, as appropriate.

Application falsification may be discovered after the student’s matriculation quarter begins. In such cases, the Office of Undergraduate Admissions will inform the student of the alleged falsification and potential UC Santa Cruz Code of Student Conduct student conduct outcomes (formerly sanctions), that may include, but are not limited to, dismissal, transcript notation, suspension, disciplinary warning, delayed awarding of degree, or other student conduct outcomes. The student may appeal the sanction to the Cancellation Appeals Review Committee following the process outlined above. If the CARC finds the student responsible for falsification, it may impose the recommended sanction or an alternative sanction.

In cases where the student is found responsible for falsification after completing their matriculation quarter, and the assigned sanction is admission cancellation, dismissal, suspension, or revoking or delayed awarding of degree and/or UC credits, the student will be formally referred to Student Conduct for an incident review meeting within 10 business days after CARC decision notification.

Appeals of admission cancellation related to the system-wide University of California verification process must be delivered to the University of California Office of the President according to their policies. The administrative action related to such cancellation occurs immediately, irrespective of timing.

UC Santa Cruz expects all prospective students to meet the University of California application deadlines. In extraordinary cases, a late application may be accepted for review. Approval to submit a late application does not guarantee admission. All applicants will be held to the same selection criteria for possible admission.

Appeal Deadline: An appeal to submit a late application must be submitted no later than three months prior to the start of the quarter.

Appeal Transmittal: An appeal for consideration to submit a late application must be submitted online  (for best results, please use a laptop/desktop to submit the form, not a mobile device).

Appeal Content: The student must include a statement with the following information. If any of the required information is missing, the appeal will not be considered. 

• Reason for missing deadline along with any supporting documents
• Reason why late application request should be considered
• Date of birth
• City of permanent residence
• Intended major
• Email address
• Mailing address
• List of all courses currently in-progress or planned
• The University of California application number (If a University of California application has already been submitted and UC Santa Cruz is to be added).

For first-year applicants, the appeal package must also include the following. If any of the academic information is missing, the appeal will not be considered.

• Self reported TOEFL/IELTS/DET scores (if required)
• Self reported AP/IB exam scores, if taken
• High school transcript(s), unofficial copies are acceptable 
• College transcript(s) from all institutions where the applicant was registered at any time, whether or not courses were completed, unofficial copies are acceptable

For transfer applicants, the appeal must also include the following. If any of the  academic information is missing, the appeal will not be considered.

• Self reported AP/IB exam scores, if taken 

It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all of the above information is provided. Any clarification questions can be directed to Undergraduate Admissions (UA) at (831) 459-4008. UA may deny an appeal due to lack of completeness or if submitted after the deadline.

Appeal Review: UA is delegated authority to act on appeals for late application consideration.

Appeal Considerations: UA will base its review of the appeal on the reason(s) for the missed application deadline, including whether the circumstances are compelling and/or truly outside of the individual’s control, and the timeliness of the receipt of the appeal.

Appeal Outcomes: If granted, the application package will be considered as part of the current admission cycle. The granting of a late application appeal does not mean that UC Santa Cruz will necessarily extend an offer of admission . The appeal may be granted for an off-cycle review resulting in consideration for a future quarter. The appeal may be denied for the next regular application deadline, if eligible, or to seek opportunities at another institution.  

Appeal Response: Applicants will be notified by email of the appeal decision within 21 days of receipt of the complete appeal package. In cases where the appeal is granted, this notification will include information about how to submit a late application.

The Appeal of Admission Denial is not an alternate method for admission. The appeal process operates within the same admission criteria set by the Committee on Admissions and Financial Aid (CAFA) for the given year, inclusive of the standards for Admission by Exception.  An invitation to be on the waitlist is not a denial. Once all waitlist activities have concluded, students not offered admission from the waitlist will receive a final decision and may submit an appeal at that time. In addition, there is no appeal to be invited to join or be admitted from the waitlist.

Appeal Deadline: There are two filing deadlines for students who are not offered admission.

Initial Denials: March 31, annually, 11:59:59 p.m. PDT. This filing period does not include students invited to be on the waitlist.

Final Denials: Fourteen calendar days from the date the denial of admission is posted in the MyUCSC portal ( my.ucsc.edu ). This filing period is only for students not offered admission from the waitlist.

Appeal Transmittal: Online . (for best results, please use a laptop/desktop to submit the form, not a mobile device) Appeals submitted by any other method will not be considered.

Appeal Content: The student must include a statement with the following information. If any of this information is missing, the appeal is not complete and will not be considered. 

• Reasons for the request for reconsideration. Applicants must present new and compelling information that was not contained in the original application, including any supporting documents. 
• List all in-progress coursework
• High school transcript(s) that includes the fall grades (unofficial copies are acceptable). 
• College transcript(s), if the student has completed college coursework (unofficial copies are acceptable). 

It is the responsibility of the student to ensure a complete appeal. Any clarification questions can be directed to Undergraduate Admissions (UA) at (831) 459-4008. UA may deny an appeal due to lack of completeness or if submitted after the deadline.

Appeal Review: UA is delegated authority to act on appeals of admission denial for first-year applicants.

Appeal Considerations: UA will consider, relative to all first-year students offered admission, a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the student’s senior year grades, the strength of the student’s senior year academic schedule, and any error on the part of the UA. If there is nothing new or compelling, an appeal may not be appropriate. If a student’s senior year grades have gone down, or if a student has already earned a grade of D or F in any 'a-g' course in their senior year, and UA was not notified, an appeal will not be granted.

Appeal Outcomes: The appeal may be granted or denied. Requests to be placed on the admissions waitlist will be denied. Applicants whose appeal is denied are encouraged to apply, if eligible, as transfer students in a future year.

Appeal Response:  Appeals that are submitted by the deadline will receive an email response to their appeal within 21 calendar days of the appeal deadline.

The Appeal of Admission Denial is not an alternate method for admission; on the contrary, the appeals process operates within the same selection criteria, including Admission by Exception, determined by the Committee on Admissions and Financial Aid (CAFA) for the given year. An invitation to be on the waitlist is not a denial. Once all waitlist activities have concluded, students not offered admission will receive a final decision and may submit an appeal at that time. In addition, there is no appeal to be invited to join or be admitted from the waitlist.

Appeal Deadline: Fourteen calendar days from the date the denial of admission was posted in the MyUCSC portal .

Appeal Content: The student must include a statement with the following information. If any of this information is missing, the appeal will not be considered. 

• Reasons for the appeal. Applicants must present new and compelling information that was not contained in the original application, including any supporting documents.
• List all coursework currently in progress and planned. 
• Transcripts from any collegiate institutions in which the student has been registered/enrolled including fall and winter grades for the current academic year (if enrolled) (unofficial copies are acceptable). 

It is the responsibility of the student to ensure a complete appeal. Any clarification questions can be directed to Undergraduate Admissions (UA) at (831) 459-4008. UA may deny an appeal due to lack of completeness or if submitted after the deadline. 

Appeal Review: UA is delegated authority to act on appeals of admission denial for transfer applicants.

Appeal Considerations: UA will consider, relative to all transfer students offered admission, a variety of factors including, but not limited to, any error on the part of UA, the student’s most recent grades, and the strength of the student’s most recent academic schedule, and the level of preparation for the major.

Appeal Outcomes: The appeal may be granted or denied. Requests to be placed on the admissions waitlist will be denied. In rare cases, appeals may be approved for a future quarter  contingent on completion of additional coursework.

Appeals Response: Appeals that are submitted by the deadline will receive an email response to their appeal within 21 calendar days.

Undergraduate Admissions occasionally receives appeals that do not fit in the categories described above, such as a missed deadline to accept a waitlist invitation or statement of intent to register, or deferral to begin enrollment in a future term.

Appeal Deadline: A miscellaneous appeal, not covered elsewhere in this policy, may be submitted at any time.

Appeal Transmittal: A miscellaneous appeal must be submitted online  (for best results, please use a laptop/desktop to submit the form, not a mobile device).

Appeal Content: The appeal must include a statement for the appeal and any related documentation.

Appeal Review: Undergraduate Admissions will act on miscellaneous appeals, not covered by this or other policies, following guidance from the Committee on Admissions and Financial Aid (CAFA).   

Appeal Consideration: Undergraduate Admissions will consider whether or not the appeal is within its purview, existing policy, and the merit of the appeal.

Appeal Response: The decision regarding a student’s miscellaneous appeal will normally be communicated within six weeks by email. In rare circumstances when additional information is required and resolution of the appeal review may take longer, Undergraduate Admissions will inform the student of this within six weeks of the receipt of the appeal.

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His Murder Conviction Was Overturned. Why Is He Still in Prison?

Brian Scott Lorenz was convicted of killing a young mother near Buffalo in 1993. The district attorney is fighting a judge’s decision last year to throw out the case.

By Jesse McKinley and Danny Hakim

After 30 years in jail, Brian Scott Lorenz thought he might be going home. Last summer, an Erie County judge threw out his conviction in a 1993 murder that had set off a raft of accusations involving bad cops, famous killers and prosecutorial misconduct.

Nearly a year later, the crime is still unsolved and Mr. Lorenz remains behind bars.

In 1994, Mr. Lorenz and a co-defendant were found guilty of the savage slaying of a young mother, Deborah Meindl, in the Buffalo suburb of Tonawanda. Last August, a state judge set aside the conviction, citing DNA taken from the crime scene that did not match either defendant and the fact that prosecutors had not revealed evidence to the defense.

But the Erie County district attorney’s office continues to appeal the overturned convictions, raising the prospect of a second trial despite a paucity of physical evidence or potential prosecution witnesses. And the district attorney has successfully fought efforts to release Mr. Lorenz, who has spent more than half his life behind bars for a crime he insists he did not commit.

“It just seems like it’s never going to end,” Mr. Lorenz, 54, said in a recent interview from jail in Erie County. “I’m on a treadmill, in a tunnel, with the light at the end. But it’s just not getting nowhere, man.”

James Pugh, Mr. Lorenz’s co-defendant, was released on parole in 2019. But the trial judge and an appellate judge in Rochester refused to intervene to release Mr. Lorenz pending another possible trial. In late June, his lawyers asked the chief judge of the Court of Appeals, New York’s highest court, to intervene. A spokesman said the court would “decide the motion at a future session.”

Ilann Maazel, one of Mr. Lorenz’s lawyers, called his client’s continued imprisonment a “Kafkaesque nightmare” that is “intolerable, unconstitutional and wrong.”

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