What happens if receive a mark on an assessment you don’t agree with?
Blog written by Shannon Cobley one of your independent advocates
At some point in your studies, you might disagree with a mark you have received on an assessment. This uncertainty may cause confusion and worry. Don’t despair, if you’ve received this mark due to extra stress and external factors – we may be able to help you!
What can you do?
If you are not happy with your result, you can request feedback against the marking rubric or apply for a re-mark. On this page you will find information about the processes for marking assessments. With each assessment, you will be given a marking guide or rubric – basically a set of rules and instructions. Please keep in mind that every assessment you complete in your studies is different – so this rubric will be different for each assessment. The Ruberic will shows you what you must achieve to be awarded a; Fail, Pass, Credit, Distinction, or High Distinction.
If you are unsure where to find your marking rubric for a particular assessment, please ask your unit coordinator.
Things to remember
Time limits apply to applications for a re-mark, the time starts from the date the mark was released.
- 10 working days for a domestic student
- 20 working days for international students
If you are confused about why you received your mark, it can be helpful to contact your unit coordinator and ask for them to go over your assessment with you. You may then have a better understanding of where to improve next time, or you may still decide to appeal.
- You can’t have your assessment re-marked for just any old reason!
- You may have spent a lot of time and effort on the assessment, but this will not be sufficient grounds for a re-mark!
- Simply sending an email showing your dissatisfaction with the mark and not address the issues!
What we are trying to say here…
You need to address the issue. You need to demonstrate and back up your case with evidence. To do this, you will need to review the marking rubric and compare it to your assessment and your marks.
You need to make an argument as to why you believe your assessment deserved a higher mark, in accordance with the marking rubric. The comments that a marker leaves can also be useful to review, as they may assist your argument.
You will also have to consider the Assessment Appeal Guidelines Policy. Reviewing this can help you understand what can and cannot be used when appealing a grade.
Then what happens?
If your case has been considered for a re-mark, it will be conducted by an independent suitably qualified marker who will consider your grounds and assess your work in accordance with the rubric.
Please note: Having your assessment re-marked is not without risk, you may receive a lower mark, the same mark, or a higher mark. This should be kept front of mind when you consider applying to have your work assessed!
What if you don’t know where to start?
In some cases this can be quite technical and involved. Our team are familiar with the process happy to help you draft the best possible case and address the key issues as well as help you consider available alternatives such as a special consideration.
We will help you review your reasons for considering a re-mark, and guide you to ensure you present the best possible application. We will discuss your options and drill down into what you really want. We can help you build your case for a re-mark, ensuring it’s clear and made in accordance with the rubric, university guidelines, and policy.
Our independent Advocates can assist you with a range of situations you may face as a student at UNE.
