With results being released and progression decisions getting confirmed, this can be an overwhelming time for many students. If you’ve received a decision from the University that you believe is unfair or incorrect, you may be thinking about submitting an Academic Appeal. It’s completely normal to feel disappointed or frustrated, but there is a clear process to follow, and support is available to help you through it.

Here are the steps you can take to guide you through the Academic Appeals process:

1. Talk about the issue 

You should firstly raise the matter informally with either your Module Tutor or another relevant staff member of your School to see if an informal resolution can be achieved. Prior to these conversations, consider the evidence you may have and the desired outcome you are hoping for.

2. Check the grounds for appeal

Academic Appeals are not a chance to have work remarked simply because you are unhappy with the grade. You must demonstrate that your appeal meets one or more of the University’s accepted grounds.

The grounds for Academic Appeal are: 

1. At the time of the assessment, there existed circumstances which adversely affected your performance and which you were unable to communicate to the Board of Examiners/Award and Progression Panel before it reached its decision.  In making such a case, you must provide valid documentary evidence where appropriate.  (Retrospective medical certification will not be accepted as valid)

2.​There has been an administrative error or procedural irregularity duringthe conduct of the relevant assessment, of such a significant nature, as to havematerially affected the approved grade or mark awarded.

Appeals submitted outside the stated grounds are likely to be rejected. If you’re unsure if you meet the grounds for appeal, email the SU Advice Service to discuss your case (suadvice@glos.ac.uk).

3. Draft a formal academic appeal 

You will need to complete a formal Academic Appeal form, which you can find on the SU Advice Service’s Resource Hub. The Appeal form is your opportunity to clearly explain:

• What you are appealing

• The grounds for your appeal

• The impact on your performance or progression

• Why the information was not previously submitted (if relevant)

Be factual, concise, and structured. Focus on evidence and provide a clear account of the situation. 

Evidence

Evidence is essential. Any claims you make must be supported by appropriate documentation. This might include:

• Medical letters or certificates

• Evidence of personal or family circumstances

• Professional or third-party statements

• Screenshots or documented communication (where relevant)

Make sure your evidence clearly relates to the dates and circumstances in question as retrospective evidence isn’t usually accepted. 

Be organised and mindful of deadlines.

Academic Appeals are subject to strict deadlines. You cannot submit an appeal until your mark has been confirmed by the relevant Board of Examiners which happens a few times a year. Once your mark has been confirmed you have 20 working days to submit your appeal. 

Late appeals are normally only accepted in exceptional circumstances. Start preparing your appeal as early as possible to give yourself time to draft your statement and collect evidence.

4. Seek support

The SU Advice Service can:

• Help you understand whether you have grounds for appeal

• Review a draft of your appeal form

• Advise on what evidence may be appropriate

• Support you in understanding the possible outcomes and the next steps

If you would like feedback before submission, contact the Advice Service as early as possible(suadvice@glos.ac.uk). While we aim to respond promptly, availability cannot be guaranteed, so early engagement is key.

5. Submit your appeal within the deadline.

Ensure your completed appeal form and supporting evidence are submitted within the 20 working-day window. 

6. Be prepared for the next stage.

Once submitted, your appeal will be reviewed by the University’s Appeals and Complaintsteam. In some cases, the Appeals and Complaints team may deem your appeal ineligible, you will be notified of this through email with an explanation. If deemed potentially eligible, notification of the formal appeal will be communicated to the relevant senior leader within the School and considered. 

These processes take time, so please be patient. An appeal can take up to 90 calendar days to complete. 

What happens next?

After your appeal has been considered, you will receive a written outcome explaining the decision and the reasons for it. Possible outcomes vary depending on the circumstances. 

Facing an Academic Appeal can feel daunting, but there is a structured process in place to ensure fairness and transparency. At any stage of the process, or if you are unsure whether to appeal, you can seek advice from the SU Advice Service. We are here to support you – either email us at suadvice@glos.ac.uk or complete the form on our website: www.uogsu.com/advice.