The normal appeals procedure can be used for academic appeals as a PGR, but there are some different things to consider. Like any other appeal, they are there to put right something that has gone wrong, so you cannot just challenge academic judgement.

If you remain dissatisfied following the final outcome, you can raise it further with the DVC or the OIA.

Read our related articles for more information on how to submit your appeal and how the process works.

FAQs

Which grounds can Research Postgraduates use?

You can use any marked ‘postgraduate researchers’ or any that are unmarked - this is grounds C, D, E, or F.

Those relating to mitigating circumstances are marked ‘taught students’. This is because PGRs are expected to use suspensions, authorised absences or potentially extensions when mitigating circumstances disrupt your studies, rather than the Mitigating Circumstances procedure.

You can read more about taking time out of your research on the University website, or in our related articles.

Ground F can be used if you did ask for a suspension or extension of study, but it was unreasonably refused. Please note, this is not the same as requesting an extension to your overall study time period.

If you want to appeal on grounds relating to poor supervision, you would be expected to have raised the issues with your School at the time.

Can I continue my research if I appeal?

It depends what you are appealing against. For example, if you are appealing against a decision to refer your thesis at the final examination stage, you may need to suspend to avoid losing study time.

That said, this can be complex and appeals do take a long time. Suspensions might impact your funding, so please speak to us for individual advice.

What can I appeal against?

You can appeal against any finalised academic decision, for example:

• Being transferred to a lower award such as MPhil
• Failure of your award
• Withdrawal
• Referral for resubmission