Grade Appeal

The evaluation of academic work is the prerogative of the instructor and the rules for determining final course grade should be established by the instructor and provided to the students in an electronic or printed course syllabus at the beginning of the semester. A student who believes grounds exist for the appeal of a final grade must first consult with the instructor. If the appeal cannot be resolved, a student may proceed to the grade appeal process.

The procedures described in this policy are available only for appeal of a semester or term grade based on one or more of the following reasons:

  • There is a mathematical error in calculation of the grade or clerical error in recording of the grade that remains uncorrected.
  • The assignment of a grade to a student by application of more exacting requirements than were applied to other students in the course.
  • The assignment of a grade to a student on some basis other than performance in the course.
  • The assignment of a grade by a substantial departure from the faculty member’s previously announced standards.
  • There are extenuating circumstances such as illness, incapacity, or absences of the instructor generate uncertainty regarding appropriateness of the grade assigned.

Grades given as a result of academic dishonesty cannot be appealed under the grade appeal procedure, but should be made under the provisions of the Policy on Scholastic Dishonesty B7.13.7.

The procedures for submitting a grade appeal are available in the office of the Dean of Student Engagement and Retention.