Academic Grievance Procedures

Although the University will review a final grade under certain circumstances described below, the University will not review individual assignment grades except for good reason determined in the University’s sole discretion.   

A final grade can only be changed by persons other than the instructor of the course if there is (1) a mathematical error in calculating the grade or (2) if a grade was awarded in an arbitrary and capricious fashion.  The University defines “Arbitrary and capricious” grading as:

• The grading procedures used to award the grade were not those outlined in the course syllabus.

• The grade was awarded on a basis other than academic merit, including but not limited to favoritism, discrimination or harassment of any type, or romantic or sexual relationships between students and faculty.

Students who wish to appeal the calculation of a FINAL grade must first attempt to resolve the issue with their instructor.  The student shall provide a written explanation of their concerns to their instructor within ten (10) business days after the end of the course or after the grade was awarded, whichever is later.  The Office of Student Affairs (studentaffairs@strayer.edu) shall be copied on all communications between an instructor and the student when a formal grade dispute is submitted. The student’s communication must include all relevant information in regards to their dispute including any written statements from third parties.  Except for good reason determined in the University’s sole discretion, the University will not consider a grade appeal submitted outside of this timeframe. 

If the issue is not resolved between the Instructor and the student within ten (10) business days then the student may formally appeal the final grade to the Office of Student Affairs (studentaffairs@strayer.edu).  The student must present the appeal in writing with supporting documentation including any response(s) received from the instructor. 

The Office of Student Affairs shall provide a written response to the student within ten (10) business days after receipt of the student’s grievance to address the substance of the student’s concerns.  The decision of the Office of Student Affairs is the University’s final response.