Special Consideration 101
What is Special Consideration?
Special Consideration is when unforeseen or unavoidable circumstances (i.e., illness), which negatively affected your performance in an assessment (including an examination) or, may be taken into account during marking. Special consideration may be applied for a maximum of 3% of your final mark for the unit.
Eligibility for Special Consideration
You can apply if you face circumstances such as:
- Medical or Health-Related Issues
- Employment or Work-Related Challenges, such as an unexpected increase in work hours by your employer
- Family or Personal Circumstances, such as unforeseen tragedy (e.g., death in the family), impact from a natural disaster or major incident, or unexpected family health issues.
Important Points
Applications for special assessment must be made in accordance with the following timelines:
- at least four (4 weeks) before the date of the examination if applying for an alternative form of assessment;
- within five (5) calendar days of the relevant examination date or assessment task due date if applying for any other form of special assessment; and
- late applications may be accepted at the discretion of the Course Coordinator (or delegate).
- special consideration is only granted for circumstances beyond your control. Voluntarily increasing your work hours or taking on additional employment does not qualify.
How to Apply for Special Consideration
- Reach out to A&W for advice. Our team can help you through the application process, including reviewing your application and advising on necessary documentation.
- Complete the Application Form. Ensure all sections are filled out accurately.
- Provide supporting documentation. Supporting documentation can include a medical certificate, a supporting letter from your employer, a letter from your solicitor or a statutory declaration, as well a letter from a mental or allied health professional.
- Make sure you submit your application within 5 working days of your assessment task due date or examination date.
Tip: Applications without supporting evidence will not be considered.
For full details, you can refer to the UNE Special Assessments Policy, here.
Our team at Advocacy and Welfare offers confidential support to students! You can contact us here.
Lifeline is also a 24/7 hotline and you can call them on 13 11 14
